Is there a “right time” to go looking for a new home? Conventional wisdom says that the spring and fall are the prime time to enter into the real estate market. However, home shopping can be like investing in the stock market – be a contrarian and you can reap the rewards! Let’s explore some of the reasons why summer home shopping may give you the advantage in your new home search. 

1. The Luxury of Time – With many people taking the summer off for vacations, or even for relaxing in the city, you might have real estate agents and sales associates in new home sales centres all to yourself. It’s a pleasure to take your time and explore all the home options at your own leisurely pace without feeling the pressure of the next person snapping up the home plan you wanted before you are ready to say Yes!
2. Supply vs. Demand – With less buyers shopping in the market, current homeowners may be more anxious to sell. This may give you an edge. So go ahead – make an offer!
3. School Enrollment - Home hunting in the summer gives you the opportunity to have the kids enrolled for the new school year for fall. Move in early and they’ll have more time to make friends in advance.
4. Outdoor Building Amenities– Many developers provide excellent outdoor amenities, such as a rooftop garden, outdoor movie theatre, swimming pools, BBQs, and lounges. The summer months are your best opportunity to enjoy them to their full potential. Getting to know your neighbours at the same time is a bonus!
5. Meet the Neighbourhood – Summertime is when the sun comes out, the clouds shy away, and your neighbourhood comes to life. This is the perfect season to experience the vibrancy around your community. Check out nearby parks, running trails, festivals and many more attractions that may keep you and your family entertained. Learn the local bike routes and discover the closest Farmer’s Market. Tour the community centre – many are newly renovated and offer programs with great value.
6. Condo Warming Season – For the majority of homes that are not equipped with air conditioning in Vancouver, July and August can be stifling. Tour prospective new homes in the summertime to experience how hot your home may get (or seek out a new home that includes air conditioning!). You may also choose to tour at different times of day to see the amount of light you’ll enjoy in your home.

While you may be tempted to enjoy the sunshine and put off house-hunting until the fall, the summertime can be the right season to look for a home at a more relaxed pace, while experiencing the building and surrounding neighbourhoods at their peak.