More Homes, Less Stress: The Fall Buyer Advantage

Expectations. Timing. And All The Things Pumpkin Spice.😁

I always tell my clients you can’t time the market. That’s because trying to buy at the exact perfect moment is a recipe for frustration. 

But national data shows that the week of October 12–18, 2025, is expected to be the single best week of the year for homebuyers. The reason is simple: this one week balances everything buyers want: more homes on the market, less competition from other shoppers, and real savings on price.

Let’s take a look. 

Why Mid-October Matters

The fall season usually brings a shift in the housing market, but this year’s mid-October window looks especially promising for buyers. After a slower summer, inventory has been building, buyers have pulled back, and homes are taking longer to sell. 

That combination makes the week of October 12–18 a sweet spot for anyone ready to make a move. Here’s what the Realtor.com data shows.

More Homes to Choose From

This week usually brings the biggest selection of homes for sale compared to other times of the year. And that means a wider range of choices for buyers. 

In Nassau County Florida (Fernandina Beach and surrounding areas), there are currently 586 single family homes for sale, which is the highest October supply seen since 2014 and 2015.

Lower Home Prices. Less Competition. Homes Taking Longer to Sell.

Homes are typically priced lower in mid-October compared to the summer peak. Nationally, buyers save about $15,000 on a median-priced home. Who wouldn’t want that?

Here in Nassau County, we’ve been seeing the number of days on market (54) creeping back up towards the past 3 year high seen in January, 2025 (71 days) and March, 2023 (53 days). Along with this, the number of expired listings are also increasing: there have only been 4 other times when the number of expired listings were higher (and are seeming seasonal at/near December-January timeframes).

Another interesting fact to note: there is a cyclical "dip" in median closed sale prices in October. 

What This Means for Buyers

The truth is, the real win goes beyond numbers. 

It’s about peace of mind. 

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. Having more time and less competition means you can compare your options without rushing, negotiate on price or repairs, and focus on finding the right home for your situation. 

If you are planning to buy this fall, data shows conditions may be in your favor. But timing only works if you’re ready. That means:

1. Getting pre-approved so you know your budget.

2. Watching the market closely (I can help set you up with alerts).

3. Being ready to act when the right property hits.

And remember: your strategy should depend on your goals. Every season offers new opportunities for buyers who are prepared. 

Pro Tip for October Home Sellers:

Fall buyers are thoughtful and serious. Highlight cozy spaces—reading nooks, backyard firepits, and family-friendly layouts. Now is also a great time to review your curb appeal, as we are coming down from the thick, green lush look of spring/summer. Add pumpkins and fresh mulch to boost curb appeal, and stage with soft lighting inside. Remember that fall smells are nice but be careful about being over-whelming: many buyers tend to increase their level of awareness when stronger scents are present (and wondering what seller's are hiding). 

Closing Message

October doesn’t shout for attention—but it wraps you in warmth, invites you to slow down, and reminds you to enjoy your space and your people. On Amelia Island, it’s a month for homemade memories, harvest flavors, and homes filled with laughter and light. Whether you’re welcoming trick-or-treaters or simply soaking in the peace, we hope your October is full of joy, coziness, and coastal wonder.

See you at the pumpkin patch—or on the porch.

Miranda

Information from Realtor.com