5 Advantages To Buying A Home In The Winter
So Winter is now upon us, and the last thing many people want to do is venture outside to look at homes. "I'll just wait until Spring" you say, but not so fast. Buying a home in the winter actually has its advantages. Here are just a few things that come to mind:
1. Let's Make A Deal! - While most people would prefer not to look in the winter, this is when opportunity strikes and deals can be had. With less showings, motivated sellers realize that offers are extremely rare during the winter and may be more willing to bend on their price. Accumulating expenses, especially the heating bill, has a tendency to motivate most sellers to take any decent offer that is presented to them.
2. The Best Time To Monitor Energy Efficiency. - Is the heating system working properly, are there drafts in certain rooms? When buying during warm weather months, you typically have to rely on the seller or their agent telling you how warm and cozy the bedroom above the garage is during the winter. Now, you and your inspector can check things out for yourself so there aren't any surprises down the road.
3. Better Pricing Available On Improvements and Upgrades. - Unless you are buying new construction, you will most likely want or need to do some work on any home you buy and winter is an ideal time for home improvements. Many trades people are much slower this time of year and will work cheaper during the winter. They will also be more available to do the work. Recently, we had some buyers finish their basement during the winter and the cost savings was significant versus waiting until spring or summer.
4. What You See Is What You Get. - During the winter, you get an accurate idea of your privacy, or lack thereof, as all of the leaves have already fallen. If you like what you see during winter, things will only get better when everything is in full bloom.
5. You have more time. - People in general are much busier in the summer, making it more difficult to fit home buying into their schedule. Having less activities during the winter months makes it more convenient to buy a home.
Winter brings about tremendous opportunity to home buyers, so what are you waiting for? Put on your hat and gloves and take advantage of the winter buying season.
If you enjoyed this article, here are a few others that you may like as well:
Real Estate Agents Are Not Just Door Openers - What A Buyers Agent Really Does
How Much Can I Get That Home For
Is Zillow Really Accurate - Take A Look For Yourself
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About The Authors:
Dan and Amy Schuman live on the East side of Cleveland and specialize in Cleveland Luxury Homes, working with buyers relocating to Cleveland, and first-time buyers.
For Ohio and Cleveland Oh real estate and homes see Cleveland OH real estate
For a personal consultation or to speak directly to The Schuman Team, call 216-346-3235 or email.
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5 Advantages To Buying A Home In The Winter is the property of The Schuman Team and may not be duplicated or used without their written consent. ©December, 2010
