Thinking of giving yourself the gift of a new home this holiday season? Let’s look at why that might be a merry good idea.

Less Competition is Coming to Town

With fewer buyers in the market – which happens around the holidays – prices usually take a seasonal dip in the buyer’s favor. A recent report from the property data firm ATTOM Data Solutions, which looked at 39 million condo and single-family home sales over nine years, found that in winter months more sellers drop their prices. In December and January, we see some of the year’s lowest median sale prices.

A Most Wonderful Time of the Year for Negotiating

The wintertime shift that favors buyers isn’t just about price; it means more bargaining power in several important areas. That includes greater leverage to insist on contingencies such as inspections, appraisals, and home-sale contingencies to make the deal dependent on your ability to sell the home you already have. Perhaps even termite certification and setting a timetable for the closing date.

‘Tis the Season for Tax Benefits

Tax breaks are a big consideration when buying a home, with deductions on property tax, mortgage interest, mortgage insurance, and points paid to a lender all adding up to mean significant money. Closing before the end of the year means you can enjoy the advantages of these write-offs on your next return, and not have to wait a year to see the benefits.

Get Grinchy About Holiday Decorations

If a home’s holiday décor doesn’t match your tastes, look past it to see the true home that lies underneath. So if the current look makes you want to say bah-humbug, just imagine it next year when you can decorate and celebrate the holidays in your new home. Whether you prefer a minimal look or all manner of festive lawn inflatables you can truly make it your own!

Sugar and Spice Makes Home Buying Nice

Even though home buying can be stressful, it’s a good idea to keep the holiday spirit with all involved. Agents, inspectors, sellers, and lenders often have extra constraints on their time during the yuletide season, and so a little understanding can go a long way in ensuring a smooth purchase of your home for the holidays.

Spreading joy to the world by helping folks get their dream homes, the loan originators at the Decker Group at First United Bank Mortgage are here to help you through the holiday home-buying season. Contact us online or call us at (972) 591-3097.