Looks like Sioux Falls is swapping sunny skies for sweater weather — and the leaves aren’t the only things falling; temps are too. It’s officially that time of year when “cozy” becomes a lifestyle. But before you settle in for a long winter’s nap, here’s why winter might actually be the best season to find your new home.
Why Winter Works for Homebuyers
While most people hit pause on their home search when the temperatures drop, the reality is the housing market doesn’t exactly hibernate. In Sioux Falls, new construction continues year-round — and for buyers willing to brave a few frosty mornings, winter can bring big advantages. Fewer active shoppers mean less competition, making it easier to find a home you love without the bidding wars that can heat up in spring. According to Realtor.com, winter listings typically see up to 20% fewer competing offers, giving buyers more room to breathe (and sometimes, negotiate).
But it’s not just about finding a home — it’s about finding the right one. Builders like Empire Homes keep the momentum going through the colder months, finishing homes that are move-in ready when others are just starting to look. That means shorter timelines and more certainty. When you can close before the new year, you start fresh — new home, new space, new routines — while everyone else is still waiting for listings to thaw out.
And yes, winter comes with its perks — especially if you’re looking to buy. Empire Homes is making the season a little brighter with a 4% homebuyer credit on select properties through the Year-End Collection. That extra boost (up from our usual 3%) can mean thousands in savings at closing — the perfect way to wrap up the year and settle in stress-free.
It’s also worth noting that this time of year can bring added advantages behind the scenes. Many lenders are working to wrap up their annual goals, which can translate into extra flexibility or short-term incentives on financing. For some buyers, closing before the new year can also come with potential tax benefits, like being able to deduct mortgage interest or property taxes sooner. And because winter construction schedules tend to be more open, builders often have greater availability to coordinate move-ins or last-minute finish selections — keeping the entire process efficient and timely even as the year winds down.
Winter Reveals the Details
Beyond the financial side, there’s something practical about buying in winter that people rarely talk about: you get to see a home at its most honest. Drafty corners? You’ll feel them. Good insulation and efficient windows? You’ll notice that, too. Touring in Sioux Falls’ 20-degree weather gives you a real sense of how well-built a home is. Empire Homes prides itself on energy-efficient construction, with features like 9-foot ceilings, solid-core doors, and quality insulation that help keep heating costs lower — something every homeowner appreciates when the snow starts flying.
Plus, buying now means you can actually enjoy your home by spring. No waiting for construction timelines or delayed move-ins — just unpack, decorate, and settle in while the city’s still in hibernation mode. When everyone else is rushing to schedule movers in April, you’ll already be sipping coffee in your new kitchen, watching the snow melt from the comfort of your living room.
Make Your Move This Winter
If you’ve ever thought about making a move, winter might be your quiet window of opportunity. The market is calmer, interest rates have shown signs of leveling, and the selection of new construction homes across Sioux Falls — from Tea to Harrisburg to Brandon — offers something for every lifestyle.
Buying a home in December might not sound traditional, but maybe that’s the point. The best moves rarely are. And when the keys are in your hand before the calendar flips, you’ll be glad you didn’t wait for spring to catch up.