Everyone Knows That Spring Is the Best Time to Buy or Sell a House … Isn’t It?

Everyone Knows That Spring Is the Best Time to Buy or Sell a House … Isn’t It?

Not necessarily, but it’s probably hands-down the busiest time in the real estate year. Real estate and home-building experts say the emphasis on the spring home-buying season stems from practical reasons and enduring misconceptions about the marketplace. In spring, people eager to escape winter coziness often rush to explore homes under warmer skies. For many, aligning a purchase with the school calendar also adds urgency. “I typically hear people say, ‘I want to sell my house in spring and summer because it’s the best time,’” says a Huntsville, Ala.-based real estate broker. “For some, it is—especially when transitioning kids to a new school. Doing it then simplifies things.”

Rethinking the Seasons

Contrary to popular belief, fall or winter might offer stronger advantages for sellers. “That is prime time,” the broker explains. “While inventory is lower, buyers during these seasons are serious—whether due to life changes like divorce, job transfers, or expanding families. They’re motivated.” Agents also note that spring open houses often attract curious visitors rather than genuine buyers. “In nicer weather, you get more people poking around, not truly committed,” says a Seattle-based real estate CEO. “I’d prefer two serious December buyers over 40 spring looky-loos.”

Spring Starts in January in the Real Estate World

The industry’s “spring” season kicks off in January, peaking by mid-May. “After New Year’s, activity surges as people resume postponed plans,” the Seattle expert notes. Listings typically decline by summer, plummeting sharply in December. Yet year-end sales can still spark competition. “A home listed on Dec. 23 recently sparked a bidding war,” he recalls. “Despite holiday hurdles, we outbid nine others.”

What’s Your Moving Timetable?

Planning backward from a desired move-in date is key. Closing usually takes 30 days, but finding a home can add months. For sellers, local market conditions dictate timelines. “In hot markets, homes sell within a week now,” says the Seattle CEO. “Two years ago, it took 90–120 days.” In contrast, Huntsville’s current average is 120 days on market.

Builders Offer Quick Move-In or Custom Homes

New construction adds complexity. Move-in-ready spec homes might close in a month, while custom builds take 4–6 months. “Smaller builders may need longer,” the Seattle agent notes. A custom builder adds, “Design timelines vary wildly—some take five weeks, others five months.” Permit approvals and weather also influence schedules, though winter construction is feasible. “Rain—not snow—delays progress,” he says. “Starting in fall often means move-in by spring.”

The Best Time to List

Once committed to building, sellers should list their current home immediately. “Assume delays,” advises the Huntsville broker. “If construction is estimated at three months, plan for four.” Proactivity ensures a smoother transition, regardless of season.