Is 2025 the year you finally make the move from renting to owning? If you’re starting your home search, one question likely tops your list: What’s the best time of year to buy a house?
For many buyers across the U.S., the answer is spring and summer—and for good reason. As temperatures rise, so does housing activity. School is out, listings increase and motivated buyers hit the market.
What's in this article?
These seasons bring more inventory, ideal moving weather and greater flexibility for families, making them the most active and opportunity-filled months of the real estate calendar.
In this article, we’ll break down why spring and summer are considered the best times of year to buy a home, backed by market data and insights to help you confidently navigate the busy season.
The seasonal surge: What the data says about spring and summer home buying
Historically, spring and summer are the best times of year to buy a home.
The past few years have not accurately reflected historic norms due to the impact on the market from the fairly recent COVID-19 pandemic. However, in 2025, real estate experts say we are seeing more “normal” activity and a more favorable market for buyers.
When is peak buying season?
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), peak buying season is April through June.
NAR data for this period shows:
- Average number of existing homes sold per day: 16,530
- Average number of new homes sold per day: 2,000
- Average days on the market: 33 days
July through September are still active, but the market typically begins to cool gradually.
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Six reasons spring and summer are ideal for home buying
The question remains: Why are the summer months so active for homebuyers?
Let’s look at the six contributing factors to increased spring and summer activity.
1. The weather is perfect for house hunting
It might seem like a simple reason, but more daylight hours and warmer temperatures make home shopping more enjoyable.
Buyers can tour multiple properties a day, attend open houses after work or on weekends and explore neighborhoods without losing daylight.
Additionally, there’s a higher chance of neighbors being out and about, giving buyers the opportunity to chat and get a feel for the community they’re considering joining.
2. Families time their moves around school schedules
For families with school-aged children, summer is often the least disruptive time of year to relocate.
The timing allows children to settle into a new environment, make friends over the summer and start fresh at a new school in the fall.
3. More homes hit the market in spring and summer
Homeowners know buyer demand increases in spring and summer and plan accordingly.
Many sellers make repairs or improvements during the winter months and list their properties when they can command the highest attention—and the best prices.
Buyers benefit from the range of choices across different price points, styles and neighborhoods, but they also potentially face stiff competition.
4. Curb appeal is at its finest
First impressions matter: nothing can grab attention more than the vibrant look of spring and summer landscaping.
Additionally, natural sunlight and open windows can make interiors more appealing and help buyers imagine themselves living in the home.
5. Job relocations peak mid-year
The trend for mid-year job transfers, new hires or promotions supports a natural increase in relocation-based buying and selling.
Whether they’re moving to a new city or making a career change, buyers relocating for work often face tight deadlines.
Relocation buyers need to find homes quickly and tend to be highly motivated.
6. Tax refunds and savings boost budgets
Buyers entering the spring and summer market often feel more financially prepared and empowered.
Many buyers receive tax refunds in the spring, providing a timely boost for down payments, closing costs or moving expenses.
Beyond refunds, spring often follows months of disciplined savings over the winter.
Tips for buyers entering the busy season
Spring and summer home buying offers many opportunities, but fierce competition also comes with a catch.
Homes priced right and that show well often sell within days of hitting the market, if not hours. Don’t allow this to discourage you; let it motivate you.
Preparation is the key to finding your home in hot spring and summer markets. Let’s look at some smart moves you can make to stay ahead of your competitors.
Stand out with a loan commitment
Sellers want to work with serious buyers who are financially ready and capable of closing quickly.
You’ve probably heard that you should get preapproved for a mortgage before making an offer on a home.
Compass Mortgage takes preapproval to the next level with a fully underwritten loan commitment.
- Locks in your mortgage interest rate
- Resolves any financial obstacles before closing
- Allows you to close in as little as 15 days
Compass Mortgage’s Get Committed® program allows you and your real estate agent to put the most attractive offer, even if it’s not the highest one.
A loan commitment essentially has the power of a cash offer, showing the seller you’re fully approved financially and that your deal isn’t likely to fall through.
Be ready to move quickly
Houses don’t sit on the market long in the spring and summer. It’s not uncommon for sellers to receive multiple offers in a day, especially if a home is move-in ready.
As a result, buyers must be prepared to make decisions quickly.
To avoid hesitation at pivotal moments of the home buying process, ensure your real estate agent understands what you want—and don’t want—so you can confidently and quickly make an offer.
Work with a trusted agent and mortgage lender
An experienced real estate agent and mortgage lender are invaluable sources of knowledge and support throughout the journey toward buying a home.
Your agent’s role:
- Find listings fast
- Schedule showings quickly
- Advise on offer strategies
- Negotiate on your behalf
- Guide you through inspections, contingencies and closing details
Your lender’s role:
- Explain your loan options
- Help you understand your total monthly payment, closing costs and cash needed to close
- Communicate with your agent
- Provide a loan commitment
Choose an agent and lender who are strong communicators and familiar with the local market. These factors can give you a major edge in competitive markets.
When is the best time of year to buy a house?
Spring and summer are packed with opportunity, and preparation is essential for making your move successful.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or making your next big move, Compass Mortgage will help you seize the season and find the home you love.
Apply now to take the first step toward your homeownership goals!