If you're feeling that pull to finally start your home search, here’s something most people won’t tell you: January might just be the best time of year to buy a home in Brevard County.

I get it—many folks plan to wait until spring hits, thinking that's when all the “good” homes pop up. That is typically when we see more listings. But here’s the part they miss: we also see a flood of buyers, which means more competition, more bidding wars, and a lot less wiggle room when it comes to price and terms.

If you're hoping to score a great deal, January gives you a real edge—and the numbers prove it.

Here’s What the Data Shows

According to a LendingTree study based on 2024 home sales, buyers who purchased a 1,500-square-foot home in January paid about $23,400 less than those who bought the same size home in May. That’s a huge difference—roughly a down payment, or the cushion that helps you breathe a little easier month to month.

Why such a gap? It comes down to seasonal behavior. More buyers flood the market in the spring and summer, which drives up competition—and prices. Fewer buyers in the winter means sellers have to be more flexible.

In fact, January is consistently the least expensive month to buy, while May and June tend to be the most expensive. In 2024, May had a median price of $194.20 per square foot, while January came in at $178.60. That 8% difference adds up fast.

What’s Happening in Brevard County Right Now?

In our local market here in Brevard County, we’re seeing similar trends. Inventory has ticked up compared to last year, and while prices are still strong, they’re not skyrocketing like they were during the height of the frenzy.

That opens the door for buyers to negotiate—and that’s especially true when a home’s been sitting for a while.

Here’s what we’re seeing locally:

• Fewer buyers competing in the market

• More listings than this time last year

• Homes staying on the market longer (giving buyers a bit more breathing room)

If you're dreaming of buying in places like Melbourne, Viera, or Palm Bay, this quieter season might just be your golden window.

What Makes January a Buyer-Friendly Month?

Let’s say you walk into a home that’s been on the market for 60–75 days (which is typical in January). That seller is likely ready to negotiate. Contrast that with spring, when homes are snapped up in days, and buyers are waiving inspections just to get in the door.

In this slower season, buyers are often able to negotiate things like:

• Lower purchase price

• Seller-paid closing costs

• Credits for repairs or upgrades

• Help buying down the interest rate

All of those perks can ease the upfront cost—and your monthly payment.

What That $23,000 Could Mean for You

Imagine this: You find the home you love in January and score it for $23K less than you might have paid in May.

That difference could mean:

• A bigger down payment (which lowers your monthly loan payment)

• A better shot at hitting 20% down and avoiding PMI

• More money left in savings after closing

• Less stress when unexpected home expenses come up (and they will!)

That’s the kind of financial breathing room that can change the way your first year in the home feels.

Should You Buy Now or Wait?

To be totally upfront, January isn’t perfect. There are fewer homes to choose from, so you might not have five nearly identical options on the same block. But what you trade in variety, you often gain in leverage:

✅ Less competition
✅ More flexible sellers
✅ Lower prices than what’s coming in spring

If buying a home in Brevard County is part of your 2026 plan anyway, it might be worth exploring now while the market’s a little quieter—and friendlier to buyers.

You don’t need to rush. You just shouldn’t overlook what this season offers.

Thinking About Buying a Home in Brevard County?
Let’s talk through your goals and make sure the timing fits your situation. I’m happy to walk you through what’s happening in neighborhoods you’re interested in and help you decide if now is the right time to start your search.

Sources: LendingTree, Realtor.com