January Buyers Could Save Thousands

Why January Could Be One of the Best Times to Buy a Home

If you’re thinking about buying a home, the start of the year might be one of the smartest times to make your move. Data from housing market studies shows that homebuyers who shop in January can potentially save thousands of dollars compared to buyers in peak spring and summer months — and here’s why that matters for you. 

Seasonal Price Trends Offer Big Savings

Across many markets, home prices tend to fluctuate throughout the year. In 2024, homes listed and sold in January had a lower median price per square foot — about 8% less than the peak pricing seen in May. For a typical 1,500-square-foot home, that equates to roughly $23,000 in savings just by purchasing earlier in the year rather than waiting until spring. 

Why January Prices Are Lower

There are a few seasonal trends that contribute to better pricing early in the year:

• Less Competition: Most buyers wait for warmer weather and the traditional spring market to begin, so fewer buyers are in the market in January.

• More Motivated Sellers: Sellers who list during winter may have more urgency to sell, which can lead to more negotiation room on price or terms.

• Slower Market Pace: With fewer buyers actively shopping, homes often linger on the market longer — giving buyers more time to decide and negotiate. 

More Leverage for Buyers

When competition softens, buyers often gain negotiating leverage. In January, you may see:

• Price reductions or seller concessions

• Greater negotiating power on contingencies

• Less likelihood of multiple-offer bidding wars

That can translate into meaningful cost savings — not just at purchase, but over the life of your mortgage.

Is January Right for You?

Of course, buying a home is a personal decision that depends on your timing, budget, and long-term goals. But from a market standpoint, January historically presents a unique opportunity for homebuyers to stretch their dollars further and potentially secure a better deal than they might find later in the year. LendingTree

Thinking of buying this winter? Let’s talk about your options and how you can take advantage of seasonal market trends to find the right home at the right price.