Why Arizona’s Spring Housing Market Starts in February

By Jason Penrose

Jason has been licensed since 1999, and is currently one of the top 20 agents in Arizona for homes sold.

Most people picture the spring selling season beginning when flowers bloom, and winter officially ends. But in Arizona, the real estate market works on a different schedule.

While other states are buried in snow, buyers here are already out looking, and the market is picking up pace as early as January.

So what makes Arizona’s timeline different from the rest of the country?

Why does the season start early in Arizona? In many states, winter slows everything down. Snow piles up, people stay indoors, and home buying pauses. But in this part of Arizona, we “don’t have to shovel sunshine.” Because of the mild weather, buyers are active in January, February, March, and April.

That early buyer activity is what defines the spring selling season here. It’s driven by demand, not by the official start of spring.

Why do more buyers enter the market at the start of the year? There are several reasons why more buyers enter the market at the beginning of the year.

• Many visitors come to Arizona to escape harsh winter conditions elsewhere. After experiencing the gorgeous weather, some begin thinking about buying a second home or even retiring here. The contrast between sunshine and six feet of snow can be a powerful motivator.
• Tax refunds begin rolling out early in the year. For some first-time buyers, that extra money becomes a down payment. Many decide it’s time to stop renting and purchase a home.

With seasonal visitors, relocating buyers, retirees, and first-time buyers all entering the market at once, demand increases quickly.

Why sellers list early. Because many buyers purchase between now and April, sellers want to take advantage of that activity. That’s why more homes begin coming on the market during this time.

The weather is great, more people are in town, and buyers are actively looking. For homeowners thinking about selling, this creates strong exposure during a busy season.

Even though it’s only February, the spring selling season in Arizona is already in full swing. Early-year buyer activity makes this a strategic time for both sellers and buyers to make their move.

For anyone thinking about buying or selling, this is an active and opportunity-filled time in the Arizona real estate market. If you need guidance, just reach out at (602) 738-9943, email jason@thepenroseteam.com, or visit buyaztoday.com. I can help you work through the market and make the most of this season.