Waiting Until Spring to Buy Could Cost You More (Here Is Why)

February 22, 2026•2 min read

Waiting Until Spring to Buy Could Cost You

A lot of buyers assume spring is the best time to buy because more homes hit the market.

That is true, but it is only half the story.

Spring is also when more buyers show up. More buyers usually means more competition, more bidding wars, and less leverage for you.

The real difference is leverage, not just inventory

In the slower season, homes often sit longer and negotiations can feel more reasonable. NAR’s seasonal perspective shows winter is typically the slowest period and days on market tend to be higher than peak season.

Redfin describes winter as an off season that often brings less competition and more negotiating power.
Zillow says spring and early summer tend to have the most competition, while winter often brings less competition and more room for negotiation.

Why waiting can backfire

Here is the part many buyers miss: waiting is not neutral.

If the market gets busier in spring, leverage can shift away from buyers fast. And in many years, sellers tend to capture stronger premiums in spring. ATTOM’s research on the best days to sell points to spring as a period when seller premiums are often higher.

That does not mean prices will always jump in every city, but it does support the idea that spring can be more seller friendly.

What you can negotiate before the rush

In a quieter market, buyers often have a better shot at winning terms, not just price. For example:

Closing cost credits
Repairs or repair credits after inspection
A rate buydown paid by the seller (when allowed and structured correctly)
Flexible closing timelines
Contingencies that get more respect

Winter and off season guidance from Redfin specifically calls out negotiation power on price, closing costs, and other terms.

A smart strategy if you are financially ready

If you are financially ready, a practical approach is:

Buy the home before the rush if it fits your budget and timeline
Negotiate the strongest total deal you can (price plus credits plus terms)
If rates improve later, explore refinancing when it actually makes sense

This keeps your focus on what matters most: the home, the payment, and the long term plan.

Quick readiness checklist

Buying before spring is only smart if you are ready. Here is a simple check:

You know your comfortable monthly payment range
You have your down payment and closing funds plan
You can move within your timeline if the right home appears
You are ready to negotiate terms, not just chase list price

Bottom line

Spring can bring more options, but it usually brings more competition too.

If you are ready, winter and early spring can be a strong window to negotiate better terms and avoid the bidding war environment that shows up when everyone else returns.

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