Many people overlook buying a new home during the winter season. However, here in Central Texas, and particularly in Austin, it may just be the ideal time of year. One major reason is because of the weather. Unlike other parts of the country, where frigid temperatures pretty much mandate a slow home selling season, in Texas that’s just not the case. In fact, the average temperature in Austin in December hovers around 60 degrees. There’s also rarely snow. It’s not too cold and it’s not too hot. And, the sun shines an average of about 300 days a year. If you’re a northerner making the move down south for the winter, don’t forget to grab your flip flops and sunglasses!
It’s a fact that home sales dip during the winter. Even if you take out weather as a factor, another huge reason that plays into the equation are school calendars. Homeowners like to be settled in at the beginning and ending of school calendars. But, weather and school calendars aside, buying a new home during winter can actually be less stressful and less challenging. After all, you can use the season to your advantage and reap some benefits that you might not have considered. So, instead of waiting until spring to buy your dream home, here’s some top reasons why you should contemplate a winter home purchase:
1. Less Competition for New Homes
Typically, the spring season is considered the prime time to buy a new home. However, be prepared to not be the only one looking. The market is usually flooded with both sellers and buyers. And, that means competition for homes can be high. The Austin housing market definitely heats up during the spring and begins to slow in the fall. As a result, builders may have slightly less inventory but you’ll have less competition.
2. Sellers Are Eager for Sales
Since winter is typically the slowest selling season, builders, brokers, and real estate agents are usually eager for sales. As a result, they may be motivated to negotiate the selling price, closing costs, closing date, and terms of sale to seal the deal. In the long run, buying a home in winter can add up to some real savings. So, don’t be afraid to ask. And, be willing to negotiate to get the best price.
3. Real Estate Agents and Brokers Have More Time
Working with a broker or real estate agent during winter is a great opportunity to take advantage of their “off” time. Realtors are willing to work harder to help you find your dream home when the market is slower. They also have more time to cater to your needs so you should have their undivided attention.
4. Prices Tend to Be Higher in Spring Than in Winter
Data has shown us that home prices are seasonal. They typically rise in the spring until the end of summer, then dip slightly in the fall. January closings provide the best discounts for homeowners. To snag a deal it’s best to get your home under contract around December. And, there are even fewer people buying a home during the holidays. As a result, homes listed before the holidays are usually still on the market during and after the Christmas season. Motivation to sell through the holiday season is high. The end result is that you may be able to save some money on the bottom line. And, there’s nothing wrong with having a little additional cash in your pocket during the holidays.
5. Winter Inventory at Travisso is Plentiful
Whether you like modern, contemporary, or traditional design, there’s a home in the master-planned community of Travisso waiting just for you. If you need to move within the next month or two an inventory home is the perfect solution. Travisso currently has a plethora of move-in ready homes available in a multitude of floor plans, collections, and price ranges.
From open floor plans to luxurious primary bedroom suites to great outdoor patio options, Travisso offers homes for all lifestyles. The advantage of buying an inventory home is that there’s no guesswork. You can view the home as is, and in most cases, the home is already complete and ready for you to make it feel like yours. However, there may be some exceptions to that rule. It is possible to buy an inventory home that is not finished. Usually, the builder will list the home with an estimated completion date.
Ready to Find Your Dream Home Before Spring?
Just in time for the winter selling season, Travisso’s premier builders are showcasing all the latest trends in home design and decor in their model homes. Features include unique open floor plans and contemporary and modern designs for all lifestyles. Explore a community with diverse floor plans, evolving amenities, and a spectacular views of the Texas Hill Country that’s only a 30-minute drive to downtown Austin.
