Real estate is a great long-term investment, but it’s important to buy when the time is right. The real estate market is in constant flux, making it hard to know when to look for a property for sale. To help, JoAnn Meier at RE/MAX First Choice in Waterloo, IL, wants to share how to recognize a buyer’s market. Whether you’re working with a Realtor^® or shopping on your own, following these rules will ensure you buy at the right time and get the best deal.

Few homeowners try to sell their homes during fall and winter because of the weather. Because of this, the market becomes saturated when spring arrives. Since there’s a surplus of property for sale, you have a better chance of getting a great deal. You’ll also have a larger variety to choose from. However, you shouldn’t ignore winter deals. Homeowners who are forced to move may be more pressed to make a fast deal, which could mean a huge discount for you. If you aren’t in a rush to buy, take your time and don’t purchase the first deal you come across.

Interest rates are also an effective gauge for the housing market. If you notice rates are dropping, there will likely be more buyers. While this is good for you, it means there is a large amount of competition you’ll have to negotiate with when you find a property for sale that you like. You may run into bidding wars that boost prices beyond your budget. If interest rates are increasing, there will be far fewer buyers, so property owners may be willing to drop their prices.

Whether you’re selling a house or looking for a property for sale, turn to JoAnn Meier at RE/MAX First Choice. She’ll work closely with you through every step of the process to ensure you get the best deal on a property you love. Call (618) 939-6003 today to speak with her friendly staff, and visit their website and Facebook page to explore her listings.