SAVE BIG MONEY BUYING IN JANUARY
Why Buying a Home in January Could Save You Thousands
Buying a Home in January Could Save You Thousands
As I review national housing data and what I’m seeing on the ground with buyers, one pattern continues to stand out: January is often one of the most cost-effective months to buy a home.
A new study from LendingTree confirms what many experienced agents observe each year—buyers who move early can save serious money.
The Numbers: January vs. Spring Buying
According to LendingTree’s analysis of 2024 housing data, buyers purchasing a 1,500-square-foot home in January saved an average of $23,000 compared with buyers who waited until May.
That kind of difference can:
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Reduce your mortgage payment
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Improve affordability
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Free up funds for renovations, furnishings, or reserves
As LendingTree’s chief consumer finance analyst Matt Schulz notes, savings of this size can make a home affordable that otherwise wouldn’t be.
Why January Works in Buyers’ Favor?
From a market perspective, January offers several built-in advantages:
Less competition
Winter typically brings fewer buyers, which reduces bidding wars and pressure to overpay.
Winter typically brings fewer buyers, which reduces bidding wars and pressure to overpay.
More motivated sellers
Sellers listing during the off-season often have clear reasons for moving. That usually translates into greater flexibility on:
Sellers listing during the off-season often have clear reasons for moving. That usually translates into greater flexibility on:
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Price
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Closing costs
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Repairs
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Personal property (appliances, washer/dryer, etc.)
Improving mortgage rates
Mortgage rates have been trending lower compared to early 2025. A recent 30-year fixed average of 6.16% can save buyers roughly $250 per month on a $450,000 loan compared to rates near 7%.
Mortgage rates have been trending lower compared to early 2025. A recent 30-year fixed average of 6.16% can save buyers roughly $250 per month on a $450,000 loan compared to rates near 7%.
Buyers See the Biggest Seasonal Savings
LendingTree found that January and February consistently posted the lowest median price per square foot, while April through July were the most expensive months.
The largest seasonal price gaps were seen in:
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Hawaii – up to 25.7% difference
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Vermont – 22.3% difference
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Illinois – 21.4% difference
While Florida wasn’t highlighted in this national ranking, seasonal negotiation patterns still apply—especially in markets with strong spring demand.
Negotiating Power Is Back
Agents across the country report that winter buyers are regaining leverage. Sellers of resale homes are increasingly:
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Covering closing costs
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Offering concessions
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Competing with new construction incentives
This is a noticeable shift from the ultra-competitive markets of recent years.
As one agent put it, winter buyers are no longer competing with casual shoppers—they’re negotiating with sellers who are serious about moving.
Florida Buyers in 2026 CAN DO:
For Florida buyers, January offers a strategic window:
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Fewer competing offers
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More realistic pricing
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Better inspection and contract leverage
If you’re prepared financially and clear on your goals, this season can deliver value that’s much harder to find in peak spring markets.
Real estate doesn’t truly go “on sale,” but timing still matters. January buyers often benefit from lower prices, better terms, and calmer negotiations.
If you’re considering buying or selling in South Florida this year, understanding these seasonal dynamics can help you move with confidence.
Contact Laura Graves Real Estate Today:
Phone: 786-457-8001
Email: [email protected]
Helping buyers and sellers make smart, data-informed decisions in every season.
Phone: 786-457-8001
Email: [email protected]
Helping buyers and sellers make smart, data-informed decisions in every season.
