Thinking about buying a home in the DMV, but not sure when the time is right? We’re here to help. Below, we’re breaking down the top factors that should dictate both when you decide to start your search and ultimately pull the trigger — from seasonality to pricing and beyond.

#1 Timing Is Everything: There’s no getting around it — like in other markets, spring and summer are the best times to buy in the DC Metro Area. Why? You’ll see more homes on the market, the weather encourages prospective buyers to check out available homes in person, and buyers with kids will want to settle into new homes before school starts back up in September (to name just a few).

#2 Competition Matters: While there might be an array of homes to choose from in the spring and summer, competition will be fierce during these seasons, meaning prices will be at their highest. Having a real estate agent by your side during peak buying season is your best bet at landing a home in Washington, DC on your timeline — and edging out the competition. Luckily, a real estate professional will expertly navigate the market on your behalf and help you craft a strong offer that will impress the seller and stay one step ahead at every turn.

➤ Planning your next home purchase? Read these blogs next to learn more about buying a home in DC:

• How to Buy a Home with No Money Down
• Should You Try to Buy the Home You’re Currently Renting?
• Why Work with a Real Estate Agent to Buy Your Next Home

#3 A Little Patience Goes A Long Way: Hoping to land a better deal? Good news on that front: Homeowners who haven’t sold their property by summer’s end may be inclined to reduce their prices to entice more buyers before the cold chill of winter moves in.

What about waiting until winter? So glad you asked. The truth is that fewer people will be willing to brave plunging temperatures to shop for real estate — and with less buyers looking, you have a better chance of finding a new home at a lower price. Another benefit to consider: Harsher weather conditions will show you what a home is truly made of, like how the roof holds up in a snow storm or whether the fireplace is as functional as it should be. Of course, it’s important to remember that there will be fewer homes on the market at this time — but you’ll certainly have the upper hand if an available home does catch your eye.

The bottom line? The best time to buy is when you’re ready. There are many important considerations that come into play when deciding when to look for and make an offer on your future home — but the most important one revolves around what’s right for you. Has your family outgrown your current place? Are you on a time-crunch to move to a certain neighborhood based on when your kid starts school? In the end, personal factors like this should always trump seasonal influences and market trends.

Whether you’re set on buying this spring or still weighing your options, let us take some of the stress off your plate. Get in touch now to come up with a game plan tailored to your distinct needs!