Why Fall Is One of the Best Times to Buy

Inventory Is Up

After years of limited supply, Boise’s housing market is showing healthy signs of balance. In September, Ada County recorded 1,335 existing homes for sale, up 21% year-over-year. This increase provides buyers with more options and helps moderate the intense competition that has defined the market in recent years.

National trends mirror what we’re seeing locally. According to Realtor.com, active listings nationwide rose 15.1% year-over-year in the week ending October 11, while homes spent about four additional days on the market compared to last fall. That means more choices and less urgency for buyers.

Prices Remain Stable

While inventory has grown, prices have remained steady. The Boise market continues to show moderate, sustainable price growth, signaling a healthy and stable environment rather than the volatility of past cycles. Buyers can feel confident that current pricing reflects real market value rather than short-term spikes.

Seasonal Conditions Favor Buyers

Historically, the Boise region sees peak buying activity in the spring and early summer. By fall, demand naturally cools, while available inventory remains relatively strong. That seasonal shift gives buyers several advantages:

• More motivated sellers. Homeowners who listed in spring or summer may now be more flexible as the year winds down.

• Less competition. With fewer active buyers, there’s a reduced chance of bidding wars.

• Better negotiation opportunities. More listings and slower sales allow buyers to take time and negotiate confidently.

National research supports this pattern. Studies from Investopedia and Architectural Digest highlight mid-October as one of the best weeks of the year to buy a home, citing increased supply, modest price dips, and reduced buyer demand. Redfin data also shows national inventory at a five-year high, further strengthening buyer leverage.

For buyers in Boise, this fall offers a favorable time to make a move. Inventory has improved, prices remain consistent, and the pace of sales has eased — creating a market environment that favors thoughtful, well-prepared buyers.

Lysi Bishop Real Estate is an expert in the Boise Real Estate market, offering unmatched expertise and unparalleled service to clients around the Treasure Valley. With over 30 years of in-depth knowledge and experience, Lysi Bishop inspires and leads her team of dedicated agents towards earning the title of the Best Boise Real Estate Team, year after year.

Our team specializes in luxury homes and five-star, concierge-style service in Boise and all surrounding areas, including neighborhoods like the North End, East End, Highlands, Collister, Harris Ranch, Warm Springs Mesa, East End Foothills, Boise Bench, SE Boise, Barber Valley, and West Bench, and extending into Eagle, Two Rivers, Hidden Springs, Meridian, Nampa, and Kuna.