Fact: January is arguably one of the best months to get ahead on your house hunting – and take the plunge into buying a new property.
Bold claim? Not really. The new year home-buying trend offers offers unique advantages, including fewer property hunters on the ground and more favourable market conditions.
Let’s take a look at why you should be on the phone to your buyer’s agent, stat.
1. You can focus your search before life ramps up
Barbeques and beach days may be high on your agenda right now – as they are for most Australians in January. However, as soon as school and work goes back, you know the drill: property hunting will be squeezed into the gaps. That means now is a great time to focus on your property search without distractions.
Use the quiet weeks ahead to be super strategic: research your desired neighbourhoods, attend open homes and chat to buyers’ agents and real estate agencies so you’re primed to make a move before the rest of the market wakes up and wants in.
2. Competition is low this time of year
Most people are still recovering from the festivities rather than thinking about property listings – putting you streets ahead of other buyers. You’ll have time to weigh up your options and make decisions without the pressure of crowds and high buyer demand.
Plus, a cooling market – at least for now – also puts you in a great position, especially if you’ve had your eye on a highly desirable property. Sellers are often motivated to close deals faster at the start of the year and you’re more likely to be able to negotiate a decent price or avoid bidding wars altogether.
3. There may be fewer property listings
We know, that sounds like a negative – but actually, a reduced amount of listings to go through can be a good thing if you’re looking to buy a home in January.
Buying in a peak period when there’s a lot of choice can often be overwhelming, not to mention super stressful. On the flip side, less to choose from helps narrow your search and can make the process of buying a home in January much smoother.
4. A rate cut will trigger a buying frenzy
If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that economic trends can be unpredictable. At the end of 2024, the Reserve Bank kept the cash rate at a steady 4.35%, but many economists predict a rate cut is on the horizon as early as February (or in the first half of 2025).
Once rates drop, we’re going to see a surge in buyer activity, which will drive up competition and property prices. That’s a far trickier market in which to try and secure your dream home – which is why we’re instructing our clients to act now if possible.
5. A buyer’s agent can be your best-kept secret
Navigating the property market can be challenging, especially if you’re trying to do it all on your own.
This is where a skilled buyer’s agent can help. Agents like Rose and Jones have wide knowledge of the market – including all those bits of info you’d have to dig deep to find, such as pitfalls with a building, property or area that may be conveniently left out of a listing.
An experienced buyer’s agent also has access to desirable off-market listings, and can help shorten your search by narrowing down properties that meet your criteria. Lastly, your buyer’s agent can handle the legwork and negotiate for you, giving you a significant edge over other buyers.
So, there’s no better time than now to get started
Less competition, a quieter market, motivated sellers and the chance to snap up a deal all make January an excellent time for motivated buyers – especially if you get in before interest rates take a dip.
Plus, if you enlist the help of a knowledgeable buyer’s agent, you’re setting yourself up for success in buying your dream home. Good luck!
Use the quiet weeks ahead to be super strategic, so you’re primed to make a move before the rest of the market wakes up and wants in.
Want our help? If you’re looking to purchase a new home or an investment property, Rose & Jones buyer’s agents would love to chat to you. We have over 27 years’ experience in New South Wales and Queensland, and can help you secure your dream property at the right price and terms.
To learn more and get started, contact the team at Rose & Jones today.
