Every market is different but typically most buyers prefer to move in the spring or summer, hence the sales season usually starts to heat up in late January and February.  This is especially true of Families with children who try to time the move during the summer so their kids will transfer to their new school at the beginning of the school year.  The market will typically slow down during the summer vacation period before picking up again briefly in the fall.  Late November through December are traditionally slow months.  So when is the best time to buy – it depends.  If you are a family with children, the spring months are ideal.  But if you are an astute buyer looking for a bargain the winter months may be the best time to buy.