Lots of home buyers think that spring is the best time to buy a home. Yes, it’s definitely a busy time of year for real estate, however, there’s no need to worry if you missed an opportunity this spring or just starting your home search. In fact, some home sellers actually wait to put their houses on the NWMLS until summer due to many factors, such as more time to improve curb appeal, nicer weather for open houses, etc. There are plenty of reasons to buy this Summer and I’ve compiled a shortlist to help you navigate the Greater Seattle real estate market.

Get Pre-Approved

One of the most important factors if you’re ready to buy is getting pre-approved before visiting open houses.  This will save time, energy, and potential rejected bids. With the beautiful Pacific Northwest Summer weather and sellers looking to move out quickly, your bid will have a much better chance of being selected if you are pre-approved for a loan. Everyone will feel comfortable with the process and it’s a win-win situation all-around.

Go Back and Check Out Old Listings

Just because the spring season is peak real estate selling season doesn’t mean that every home sells. Take a look at homes that have been on the market for more than 20+ days and start there, especially if you’re looking to save money. If the seller needs to move before the end of the Summer, they may be prone to lowering the price.

Start Knowing the Communities You’re Interested In

During the Summer months, more people and kids are outside in the community your interested in. You have a much better time to chat with potential neighbors, can see neighborhood kids outside playing, and have a clear vantage point of neighborhood maintenance and upkeep. If you have any red flags or deal breakers, you will literally see them in light of day.

Be Strategic at When You Search

Take advantage of looking at homes when no one else is. While others are out camping, out swimming at the lake, or paddleboarding, this may offer a chance to find your dream home. The first half of August can be the best time to find your perfect new home when not everyone is out looking.

Work Closely With Your Agent

A busy spring real estate market can mean more people competing for your real estate brokers’ time. Brokers are less occupied with getting new listing after new listing on the market. Take advantage of this and ask them questions, schedule meetings, and see as many homes as possible.

Maximize Your Buying Power

When you’re looking for the perfect home, the details matter. At the Pelham Group NW, we use our years of experience to advise you on the Pacific Northwest market and help you find the right house at the best possible price and terms to maximize your buying power!

As your Realtors, we work with you to find a home you love. Not just any home so we can close the deal, but the home that works within your budget and meets your needs – for both now and in the future. We visit more than 100 homes a month, which means we know a hidden gem when we see it and can help you see the potential (and pitfalls) of each property.

Most of all, we handle all the details with the utmost care and discretion. Your personal and financial information is treated with sensitivity, and we always put your best interests first. That’s our promise to you.  Give Kim Pelham a call today at 425.213.8761 or schedule a FREE consultation today to learn more about local areas or tour available homes for sale this Summer.