By Sofia Gallamore, September 19, 2025
When most people think about buying a home, spring and summer get all the attention. The flowers are blooming, the sun is out, and houses just look prettier in good weather. But here’s the thing – buying a home in the winter actually has some major perks that often get overlooked by buyers. If you’ve been thinking about making a move, don’t let the colder months scare you away. In fact, this season might give you a few advantages that you may not have considered.
1. Fewer Buyers = Less Competition
While everyone else is hibernating until spring, you’ll face fewer multiple-offer situations. Less competition means more breathing room to negotiate and potentially less pressure to make lightning-fast decisions. This means less pressure! You can take a little more time to think things through (and maybe keep a little more money in your pocket).
2. Sellers Are Often More Motivated
If a seller has their home on the market in the dead of winter, chances are they really need to sell. Maybe they’ve already moved, maybe it’s a job relocation, or, unfortunately, a death or divorce has happened. Whatever the reason, motivated sellers often mean more flexibility on terms, timing, and even price. They often do not have the luxury of time to be able to wait and list their home in the peak spring market.
3. You Get to See How the House Handles Rain
This one’s especially important here in the Pacific Northwest: winter weather is the ultimate test for a home. Rain reveals all. Is there water pooling in the yard? Does the basement stay dry, or do you see moisture sneaking in? Are the gutters doing their job? Buying in the winter lets you spot issues that might stay hidden during the drier months. Think of it as a free “stress test” for the house.
4. Vendors Have More Availability
From inspectors to movers to contractors, schedules open up in the winter. You’ll often be able to book appointments faster, and sometimes at lower rates since it’s their “off season” and they are typically looking for more work. That means fewer delays, better pricing, and a smoother process overall.
5. You See the House in Its “Real Life” Mode
Homes can look extra charming when the roses are blooming, but winter shows you how a property really lives day-to-day (and majority of the year in the PNW). Is it drafty? Do certain rooms stay chilly no matter how high the thermostat is turned up? Does the driveway get slick and dangerous after a cold snap? Winter gives you a more realistic picture of the home’s comfort, presentation, and functionality.
Final Thoughts
While buying a home in the winter may not sound glamorous, it can actually give you a real edge. Less competition, motivated sellers, a sneak peek into how the home performs in bad weather – it all works in your favor. So if you’ve been sitting on the fence about starting your home search, maybe winter is exactly the time to jump in and take advantage.
And if you’re curious about what’s out there, I’d love to help you explore the possibilities; whether it’s now, in the spring, or whenever you’re ready.
Your friend and Realtor,
Sofi
Sofia Gallamore
Broker | OR & WA
SOFIA GALLAMORE
Licensed Broker in Oregon & Washington
Buyers Agent
As someone who loves community, good food, and time spent outdoors, I’m proud to help others find their place here in the Pacific Northwest. I specialize in working with first-time home buyers, those looking to navigate purchasing a home while needing to sell their current, and folks exploring creative real estate investment avenues—like rentals and other income-generating properties. For my clients, I bring a deep understanding of the Portland market, and click particularly well with those who may appreciate a patient, data-driven, low-pressure approach.
I attended Milwaukie High School (Mustang bred!) and stayed local to attend Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University’s School of Public Health. There, I attended the Honors College and obtained my B.S. in Applied Health and Fitness. I loved my studies at university (and still incredibly passionate about all things health & wellness), but my part-time job as a leasing agent opened my eyes to the world of Property Management and Real Estate — and I was hooked. From there, I spent a few years in property management and then obtained my real estate license. Having grown up in Milwaukie, Oregon, and now living in Portland, I bring local expertise and a love for this area to every interaction.
With a blend of real estate know-how, Airbnb/Property Management experience, and a genuine passion for helping others, I’m excited to guide you through your Portland real estate journey. When I'm not meeting with clients, you’ll find me exploring the outdoors, caring over my houseplants, or at the gym (my primary outlet for stress!).
At Living Room Realty, I’m fortunate to work alongside a team of quality agents who reflect the best the industry has to offer. With the support of decades of committed experience, the clients we represent feel supported, educated, and advocated for. We are here to listen, answer questions, and provide honest, thoughtful guidance—whether you're buying your first home, making a smart investment, or simply exploring your options.
The amazing people that make up my team:
Jessica LeDoux | Lead Buyers Agent | Broker, Licensed in OR | jessica@livingroomre.com Jenessa VanZutphen | Buyer Operations Manager | Broker, Licensed in OR | jenessa@livingroomre.com Kim Parmon | Lead Listing Agent | Principal Broker, Licensed in OR | kim@livingroomre.com Andee Zeigler | Listing Operations Manager | Principal Broker, Licensed in OR | andee@livingroomre.com Karim Alaeddine | Operations | Principal Broker Licensed in OR | karim@livingroomre.com- T: 503-757-7737
- sofi@livingroomre.com
