Why Fall is a Great Time to Buy a Home in Des Moines

When people think about buying a home, spring and summer usually come to mind as the “busy seasons.” But here in Des Moines, fall is one of the most underrated times to make a move. From less competition to motivated sellers, autumn can offer unique advantages to homebuyers looking for the right opportunity.

If you’ve been thinking about buying a home, here are five reasons why fall might just be the perfect season to take the leap in Des Moines.

1. Less Competition in the Market

Spring and summer bring a rush of buyers, which means more bidding wars and faster-moving homes. By fall, many buyers have already closed on their purchases or taken a break until the new year. This creates less competition for you, giving you more breathing room to explore your options without feeling pressured.

In Des Moines, homes that didn’t sell in the busy season are still on the market—sometimes with sellers more willing to negotiate.

2. Motivated Sellers

By the time fall rolls around, many sellers are eager to close before the holidays or year’s end. This motivation can translate into better deals, price reductions, or seller concessions that might not have been on the table a few months earlier.

For buyers, this is an excellent opportunity to secure a home at a more favorable price.

3. Realistic Picture of the Home and Neighborhood

In Iowa, fall weather can be unpredictable—rainy days, crisp mornings, and shorter daylight hours. Touring homes in these conditions allows you to see how a property really performs outside of the picture-perfect summer. You’ll notice how well a home is insulated, how the yard handles rainfall, or whether the neighborhood feels lively during cooler months.

This gives you a clearer idea of what daily life will actually be like once you move in.

4. Favorable Mortgage Rates and Financial Timing

Historically, fall has often brought attractive mortgage rates as lenders look to finish the year strong. Even slight differences in rates can have a big impact on your monthly payment and long-term affordability.

Additionally, closing in the fall may offer some financial benefits as you head into tax season, like the ability to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes.

5. Moving Before the Holidays

Buying in the fall sets you up perfectly for the holidays. Imagine celebrating Thanksgiving or decorating your new home for the winter season. Closing before the year’s end allows you to start fresh in a new space while enjoying the comfort of home during the coziest time of year.

Final Thoughts: Why Fall is Your Opportunity

If you’ve been on the fence about buying, fall is the perfect time to explore what’s available in Des Moines. With motivated sellers, less competition, and the chance to find the right home before the holidays, this season offers unique opportunities you won’t want to miss.

At The dsmSOLD Team at Keller Williams Legacy Group, we know the Des Moines market inside and out. Whether you’re ready to start touring homes this week or just beginning to plan, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Thinking about buying a home this fall? Let’s connect today and start your search before the year ends!