Five Things Autumn Home Shoppers Can Ask for That Spring Buyers Usually Can’t

“When colder weather is approaching, an offer that is timed well and includes sensible, season-related requests is far more likely to be accepted,” says Nick Nastos, a Chicago real estate professional.

Opendoor’s housing guide for late summer and early fall says the period from September through November often strikes a good balance between inventory and prices, as homes listed in the summer stay on the market longer and competition among buyers eases.

One study found that since 2021, the usual summer peak in housing activity has moved earlier, closer to spring. The researchers pointed to stronger spring trends in prices and sales, indicating that the seasonal rhythm of home buying is shifting.

Still, fewer bidders do not necessarily translate into lower asking prices. What fall can offer instead is more room to negotiate repairs, credits, and other terms that may be difficult to obtain in a hotter spring market.

Nick Nastos, a Chicago real estate expert with Chicago’s Property Shop at Fulton Grace Realty, says buyers should think about these five requests before closing on a home in the fall.

• Roof repairs. Leaves can hide damage and interfere with drainage. If an inspection turns up issues, buyers may be able to ask for repairs or a credit before winter arrives.
• Drainage corrections. Seasonal rain can reveal clogged gutters or standing water near the foundation. Buyers can negotiate fixes instead of taking on expensive water-related problems later.
• Exterior repairs. Yards covered with leaves may conceal cracked walkways and uneven paving. Buyers can ask for the area to be cleared so it can be inspected before discussing needed repairs.
• Outdoor lighting. Shorter days can expose broken exterior lights and poorly lit entrances. An evening walkthrough may uncover issues that should be addressed.
• Heating-system repairs. Mild weather can mask furnace problems. Buyers should request service records and an inspection, then negotiate repairs if anything is not working properly.

Homes that stay unsold into late summer may give buyers added leverage, particularly when sellers are eager to close before the holiday season.

“Pay attention to how long a home has been on the market and whether the seller has already lowered the price,” Nastos says. “Those details show how much room there is to negotiate. A well-timed offer with reasonable, season-specific requests has a much higher chance of acceptance when winter is around the corner.”