Why January Can Be a Great Time to Buy a Home in St. George in 2026

If you’ve been thinking about buying a home in St. George this year, it might surprise you to learn that January is often one of the smartest months to enter the market. Seasonality plays a real role in real estate, and savvy buyers who understand how timing affects competition, prices, and negotiation leverage can often come out ahead.

Here’s why January deserves serious consideration for homebuyers in St. George, especially in the unique market conditions we’re seeing going into 2026.

Lower Prices Compared to Spring and Summer

According to national housing data, January often features some of the lowest median prices per square foot of the entire year. For example, in a historical analysis, the median price per square foot in January was found to be approximately 8.0% lower than in May — traditionally one of the busiest and most competitive months for homebuying. That kind of difference can translate into thousands of dollars in savings on a single purchase. 

While regional markets like St. George can vary, the general pattern holds: prices tend to soften in the winter months when buyer demand slows. Paired with seasonal listing activity, this can create opportunities for buyers who are ready to act. If you know where you're willing to compromise and what you're looking for, you can make an efficient and profitable investment in January. 

Less Competition, More Negotiating Power

Fewer active buyers in January can mean less competition, and that can give you an edge during negotiations. During the winter, many prospective buyers pause their search until the spring surge begins, which often leads to multiple offer situations and bidding wars. Instead of competing with dozens of other buyers, you’re more likely to find yourself in a more balanced environment where your offer is taken seriously and terms become negotiable.

Lower buyer traffic also means sellers who list in January are often more motivated — whether due to job relocation timing, family needs, or personal circumstances — and can be more willing to agree to concessions like closing cost credits, repair allowances, or flexible move-in dates. If you're hoping to have negotiation leverage, January might provide more of it for you. 

More Homes Are Being Listed — Inventory Is Growing

January isn’t a dead market — in fact, new listing activity often peaks compared to December. National housing data shows that newly listed homes in January increased significantly compared to the same time last year, sometimes reaching the highest January activity levels in several years. 

This growth in inventory can benefit buyers by increasing choices without proportional increases in competition. More homes on the market — especially earlier in the year — means buyers have a greater chance of finding a match without the frustration of bidding wars and over-asking scenarios that define peak season.

Positive Market Trends Going Into 2026

Economists and housing analysts are signaling gradual improvements in affordability as mortgage rates stabilize and inventory continues to grow. A recent national housing forecast suggests that inventory — though still below a balanced market — was up significantly from the year before, indicating more supply for buyers to consider. 

Additionally, while mortgage rates are higher than they were during the pandemic, they’ve eased compared to recent peaks. We're seeing buyers have slightly more breathing room as they plan their financing. 

“January often gets overlooked by buyers focused on spring, but that can create more opportunity,” says local real estate expert Erika Rogers. “When there are fewer buyers in the market and sellers who are motivated to move, buyers have an advantage. If you're prepared with pre-approval and a clear wish list, you'll have some leverage in January. We tell our clients it's a great idea to capitalize on what is traditionally one of the most underappreciated buying seasons.”

Expert insight like this reflects what seasoned real estate professionals see year after year: timing influences leverage — and buyers who act strategically can benefit.

How Buyers Can Take Advantage

If you’re considering a purchase in January, here are a few ways to maximize the seasonal advantages:

• Get pre-approved before you begin touring homes so you’re ready to act quickly.
• Work with a local agent who knows which homes are priced to sell in winter vs. those competitively positioned for spring.
• Be flexible with closing dates and terms — motivated sellers may value convenience as much as price.
• Use inspection and negotiation leverage that winter timing affords you, without the pressure of peak buyer competition.

January is a strategic time to buy. If you’re ready to start your homebuying journey in St. George, acting in January can mean fewer buyers to compete with, potential price advantages, and stronger negotiating power. With preparation and the right guidance, buying early in the year can be a smart move for your long-term financial and lifestyle goals. Let's connect to start making a plan for your home purchase this winter!