This time of year is usually a time when activity drops off in the housing market. But it is also a time when the savvy homebuyer can make a good offer and have it accepted. Chances are that moving day will be after Christmas. But you will not have a lot of competition for offers when you do not postpone home hunting till after the holidays.
Snow can be a hinderance, of course, but a little snow cover might not be a bad thing if you are looking to see if there are any septic issues. A home inspection should always be requested and if a dye test is done, it will show up pretty well with a light bed of snow. It is also a time to see how well a home can show decorations. And you will get more than a visual on the driveway situation. If you are not looking in an area that receives snowfall, a lot of these points will still apply. Contrarian investors usually make out very well.
Other questions can be raised at this time of year such as snow removal, the heating system [is it cold and drafty or very comfortable during your visit?], and even amenities such as local activities if TV watching is not your number one pastime. You might get an idea of bird populations if there are feeders around. And, perhaps one of the best questions you can answer yourself. What will you see when you look out your kitchen window? Is that a view you like? Only you know what you are shopping for.
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