Should You Buy a Home in Winter? The Pros and Cons of Moving During the Cold

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

April to June in the United States is thought of as peak homebuying season, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a smooth new home experience during the winter. Some areas of the country have regional hazards, such as cold temperatures and reduced sunlight between November and March. Even with winter’s disadvantages, there are some unique benefits to moving during the slow market.

Con: Life Disruptions

Moving in the middle of the school year can be challenging for families with children in schools. If you’re staying in the same neighborhood, your children may just need to adjust to a new bus route. However, if you’re moving to a different city, they may have to adjust to a new school. Additionally, holidays can limit moving company availability with closings or adjusted hours.

Pro: Less Competition in the Market

Experts like the National Association of Realtors, Zillow, and Bankrate note that the housing market begins to slow down in November. This is marked with flattened or lowered home prices, less open houses, and stagnant inventory. Buyers may be able to find their dream home for a better deal. According to a LendingTree study from October 2025, buying a 1,500-square-foot home in January instead of May could save you $23,400 from the listing price alone.

Con: Limited Viewings

In many regions, the winter season means shorter days. Less daylight can restrict visibility during home visits and open houses. You may not be able to see potential problem areas as well as during the bright daylight of Spring during a home tour or final walkthrough. Snow and winter darkness can hide curb appeal, the roof, or the state of the home’s exterior.

Pro: Motivated Sellers

Using the median days on the market, the National Association of Realtors data shows that homes are listed for 18 days longer at 49 median days in December through February than in June, where the median days on the market is 31. Because many sellers are also eager to move into their new spaces, they can be more flexible and motivated to close a deal. This could mean more negotiations, concessions, or price reductions.

Con: Temperamental Weather

Along with reduced daylight, winter can bring about inclement weather for many regions. Although hurricane season along the Atlantic coast officially ends on November 30, both north and south Atlantic regions of the country can bring about freezing rain, snow, and cold temperatures. During blizzards or intense winter weather, moving trucks may have reduced travel routes or even have customers reschedule for brighter and clearer days.

Pro: Flexibility of Professionals

Moving during the off season means you can take advantage of more attentive Real Estate Agents, Licensed Loan Originators, and moving professionals. With slowed business, professionals are more likely to accommodate special requests. This can be especially helpful if you have specific timing requirements, such as your loan closing or a moving day.

Regardless of the season, it’s important to work with a Licensed Loan Originator that will help you navigate the mortgage process. Just as you plan how to pack for moving day, we help our borrowers find the best options for their home financing. Get a head start before the thawed crowd and contact us today.