When is it a good time to buy or sell?

How many times have you heard someone say, 'I'll wait until the housing market crashes'? Maybe even years ago, back when home prices were far more affordable than they are today. Now, as you’ve probably noticed, houses have become shockingly expensive—PRICEY with a capital P!

But here’s the catch: predicting when (or if) the housing market will crash is almost impossible. The real estate market is like the stock market—unpredictable and full of surprises. So, what’s your strategy while prices climb? Wait it out or dive in? Let’s talk about it!

Can We Predict the Housing Market?

As mentioned before the short answer: is no. Predicting when the housing market will crash is next to impossible. Why? Because the market is influenced by countless economic factors—interest rates, inflation, consumer confidence—all of which are incredibly tough to accurately forecast. But here’s the interesting part: while we can’t predict crashes, there are patterns and trends to pay attention to. For instance, did you know there are specific seasons that are better for buying or selling? Timing can make all the difference. And I'll break it down for you.

The Seasons

You may have noticed that during the warmer seasons, the real estate market is absolutely BOOMING. But when the colder months roll around, the market seems to hit the brakes. Why is that? It all comes down to timing. Warmer seasons—spring and summer—are prime moving months for families. Why? Parents want to relocate without disrupting their children’s education, making the summer break the perfect window to settle into a new home. Plus, let’s be real—the weather is SO much better! Who wants to haul boxes in freezing temperatures or risk slipping on icy sidewalks?

On the flip side, the colder months bring slower activity. Fewer people are willing to brave the chill, and the holidays often distract buyers and sellers alike. This seasonal shift in demand creates unique opportunities depending on your goals. For buyers, the colder months can be a golden ticket. With lower demand in the real estate market, you're more likely to find incredible deals. Sellers may be more motivated to negotiate, making it easier to score a bargain. For example, one of my clients was house hunting during the winter when the market was particularly slow. We found an affordable property and managed to purchase it for an astonishing $30,000 below the listing price! 

So, When Is the Best Time to Buy or Sell a Property?

The answer is simple: NOW!

Waiting for the “perfect” deal or market crash can often backfire. With the guidance of a professional realtor, you can secure an amazing deal no matter the season. If you wait for an uncertain future, you risk losing out on opportunities—or facing rapidly increasing prices. There’s no crystal ball for the housing market, so taking action when you're ready is key. That said, timing still matters for your specific goals. If you’re selling, the warmer seasons are ideal. Buyers are more active, especially families looking to settle before the next school year, and the better weather encourages more house hunters to get out and explore properties. On the other hand, if you're looking to buy, colder months often present unique advantages. With less competition and more motivated sellers, you might snag a fantastic deal—like my client, who saved $30,000. Whether buying or selling, remember this: real estate never stops, and the right move is always about what works best for you. With the right strategy and support, there’s no bad time to jump in!