Should You Time Your Move Around Seasonal Trends in East Idaho?

In East Idaho, over 56% of all real estate closings happen between April and September, while January sees just 5%. Spring and summer bring more listings and faster sales, while winter offers fewer choices but more negotiation power.

Why Timing Matters in Real Estate

You’ve heard the saying “location, location, location,” but in Eastern Idaho, timing is just as important. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, understanding seasonal market cycles can make the difference between competing in a bidding war or securing a great deal.

Recent data from the July 2025 Bonneville County Market Report shows clear seasonal patterns that impact pricing, inventory, and negotiation leverage across Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rigby, Rexburg, and Shelley. Let’s break down what the numbers reveal and what it means for you.

What the Market Data Shows About Seasonal Trends

Seasonality in East Idaho is more than just a hunch—it’s backed by hard numbers:

• Closings surge in summer: According to county data, 56.9% of all home closings happen between April and September. August alone accounts for 10.5% of closings, the busiest month of the year.

• Winter slows down: Only 5.1% of closings occur in January, making it the quietest month for real estate.

• Spring brings listings: June 2025 saw 505 new listings, compared to just 151 in February.

• Homes sell faster mid-year: The average home sold in 43 days in July, compared to 71 days in March.

• Prices stay stronger in summer: July’s average sale price hit $447,465, well above winter’s ~$387,000 average.

The data confirms what locals experience: summer is the high-energy season for real estate, while winter brings a slower, more negotiable market.

Best Times of Year to Buy in East Idaho

If you’re a buyer, your strategy should depend on your priorities:

• Spring & Summer (Apr–Sep):

  • ✅ More homes to choose from (inventory peaked at 4.1 months in May).

  • ✅ Faster closings and more competition.

  • ⚠️ Prices tend to run higher, and bidding wars are more common.

• Fall & Winter (Oct–Feb):

  • ✅ Less competition, more motivated sellers.

  • ✅ Better opportunities to negotiate price or terms.

  • ⚠️ Fewer listings to choose from (just 151 new listings in Feb 2025).

For buyers in Rexburg and Ammon especially, timing can make a big difference. Families often buy in spring/summer before school starts, while investors may find better off-season deals.

Best Times of Year to Sell in East Idaho

If you’re planning to sell, timing can help you maximize your price and minimize days on market:

• Spring & Summer:

  • Homes sell quicker and closer to asking price.

  • July 2025’s sale-to-list price ratio was 98.8%, meaning sellers nearly got full asking price.

  • Buyers are actively looking, especially in Idaho Falls and Ammon.

• Fall & Winter:

  • Fewer buyers, longer DOM.

  • Still a good time for unique or well-priced homes.

  • Smart sellers can prepare in winter and hit the spring market strong.

If you’re in Shelley or Rigby, where the buyer pool is smaller, listing during the spring surge ensures maximum visibility.

What This Means for Investors

Investors also benefit from timing:

• Rental investors in Rexburg should time purchases around the BYU-Idaho semester cycle, as demand spikes in late summer and early fall.

• Flippers can purchase in winter when competition is low, renovate, and sell into the strong spring/summer market.

• Luxury homes ($700K+) see longer DOM (72–130 days). Timing the listing for summer increases the chance of securing serious buyers.

Local Takeaways for Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rigby, Rexburg, and Shelley

• Idaho Falls: Consistent demand year-round, but highest buyer activity in summer.

• Ammon: Family-driven demand makes spring/summer the most competitive.

• Rigby & Shelley: Smaller buyer pools amplify seasonality—listing in peak season is key.

• Rexburg: College cycles add another seasonal layer; rental investors should plan around school schedules.

How to Decide Your Best Timing

Ultimately, the best time depends on your situation. Use this checklist:

For Buyers:

• Can you handle more competition to have more choices? → Shop in spring/summer.

• Do you want a better deal and less stress? → Shop in fall/winter.

For Sellers:

• Want maximum exposure and quicker sales? → List in spring.

• Have a unique property or flexible timeline? → Listing in fall/winter can still work.

For Investors:

• Align with semester cycles in Rexburg.

• Use winter to acquire, spring/summer to sell.

Conclusion 

Seasonal trends in East Idaho are real—and they matter. Over half of all closings happen in the warmer months, but each season comes with its own opportunities. The right time to move depends on your goals.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rigby, Rexburg, or Shelley, having a local expert makes all the difference.

👉 Jacob Marcovitz Realtor is here to help you navigate the timing of your next move. Reach out today at 208-821-6217 for a personalized strategy session and make the market work in your favor.