The sun is shining, the birds are chirping and that can only mean one thing: spring. The arrival of spring means longer days, warmer weather and the promise of summer fun just around the corner. Spring also marks the end of winter and the beginning of home-selling and home-buying season.

During this wonderful time of year, buyers are more likely to shop for a new home. So if you have been thinking of moving, now is the best time to put your house on the market and purchase a new home. Unlike typical supply and demand in other markets, prices on homes are highest through the spring and summer when inventory is at its peak, meaning you can sell your home for more and afford to get the home of your dreams.

According to real estate author Jonathan Smoke, this fluctuation in pricing is mainly attributed to weather and other family considerations. It is simply easier to move during months with warmer weather where snow and sleet are less of a possibility, if at all. Moreover, with families, the school calendar is also something to consider as parents want themselves and their children to be settled in well in advance of that first school bell. For families with children in school, most would prefer to move during the “summer break” period, when summertime moves are less likely to conflict with the school calendar.

When it comes to finding the perfect new place to call home, consider starting from scratch and building a home that is customized for you and your family’s needs. Thanks to the Federal Reserve’s recent increase on short-term loans, now is actually the perfect time to purchase and design a brand-new home. With this hike in mortgage interest rates, it was widely believed that it would be extremely difficult to afford a new home. However, much to everyone’s surprise, the average for a 30-year fixed mortgage rate is now at its lowest level in 10 months according to an article by The Washington Post. This means you can now afford a home worth more money for less out-of-pocket each month!

New homes offer buyers multiple benefits such as having the builder customize the home before construction is complete, right down to the color palette and other personal touches such as walk-in closets, elevators and large owner’s suite baths just to name a few. Beyond moving your things in, you do not have to lift a finger! Financially, buying a brand new home versus a previously-owned home, is a more economically responsible option due to the fact that new homes are just that: new! Today, most new homes are more energy-efficient, resulting in lower utility bills. Maintenance costs are also lower because of new appliances, plumbing, wiring, heating and air.

As a new home builder in Illinois, our top priority is homebuyer satisfaction. By providing a top-notch experience to potential buyers and current residents, we make sure that your needs are met throughout every step of the home buying and customization process. To learn more about our selection of quality-built homes in Illinois and Wisconsin, call 815-385-4495 to speak with a sales agent or visit www.GerstadBuilders.com.