Why Winter is the Secret Season for Southern Utah Homebuyers

by Dave Diegelman

🏡 Why Winter is the Secret Season for Southern Utah Homebuyers

by Dave Diegelman, Southern Utah Realtor

When most people think of buying a home, they picture spring—flowers blooming, for-sale signs sprouting up, and plenty of listings to choose from. But for savvy Southern Utah buyers, November through January might just be the best time of year to make a move.

While the rest of the market slows down, opportunity quietly opens up. Here’s why winter is considered the “secret season” for homebuyers across Greater St. George, Washington, and Ivins.

❄️ Fewer Buyers, Less Competition

Historically, buyer activity dips during the holidays as families focus on travel, celebrations, and year-end schedules. That slowdown translates into fewer multiple-offer situations and far less competition for the homes that are on the market.

In the spring, popular listings often attract bidding wars. But in winter, you’re more likely to find yourself negotiating directly with a motivated seller rather than outbidding a dozen others. According to local MLS data, the number of active buyers between November and January drops by nearly 30%, giving those who stay active a clear advantage.

📊 Southern Utah Market Snapshot – October 2025

(Source: Washington County MLS)

Active Listings: ~2,400 (up 30% from early 2025)
Average Days on Market: 84 (up from 61 YOY)
List-to-Sale Price Ratio: 95% (down slightly from 96.1%)
Cash Transactions: ~40% of total sales

📉 Translation: More inventory + motivated sellers = a buyer’s advantage heading into winter.

🏡 Sellers Are More Motivated

Sellers who list during the holidays usually need to sell—whether relocating, downsizing, or wrapping up a new build. That motivation often translates into greater flexibility on price, terms, and repair requests.

While prices aren’t plummeting, homes that are priced realistically and marketed well are still selling. For buyers, this is the season to find deals without the emotional chaos of a heated market.

💼 Ideal Timing for Relocators and Investors

Winter is also a smart season for relocating buyers and investors. Relocators who buy now are settled by spring—right before tourism peaks and competition increases. Investors benefit too, often securing better entry prices and stronger ROI before seasonal demand drives values up again.

Whether it’s a vacation home in Desert Color, a retirement villa in SunRiver, or a primary residence in Little Valley, winter offers a calm, strategic window to buy before the market wakes up.

🌄 Bonus: See the Real Southern Utah

Shopping for homes in the winter lets you experience what life here is really like. You’ll see how neighborhoods feel in the quiet season, how well homes retain warmth and light, and how breathtaking the red rock views look under soft winter skies.

There’s a peace and perspective this time of year that you just can’t get when the world is moving at full spring speed.

🔑 The Bottom Line

While others wait for the spring “rush,” smart buyers know that winter is when the real deals happen. With less competition, more negotiating power, and sellers who are ready to move, November through January can be the perfect window to find your dream home—or your next great investment—in Southern Utah.

So grab your jacket, and let’s go find your winter win.

Dave Diegelman – Your Southern Utah Real Estate Resource
📞 (435) 703-4041
🌐 https://utdreamhomes.com/
✉️ ddiegelman@gmail.com