What Is the Best Time of Year to Sell a House in Southern Minnesota?

by Sonja Zoet

Timing matters — but the “best” time depends on your property type, location, and goals.
Southern Minnesota has a very unique rhythm compared to other regions because of weather, school calendars, college activity, and rural buyer patterns.

Here’s the breakdown by season.

⭐ Spring (March–June) — The #1 Selling Season

Buyers are most active in:

Mankato
North Mankato
St. Peter
Madison Lake
Eagle Lake
Lake Crystal
Waseca

Advantages:

Highest buyer demand
Fastest sale timelines
Multiple offer potential
Better curb appeal

Best for:

Move-in-ready homes
Updated homes
First-time buyer price points

⭐ Summer (June–August) — Strong for Acreage & Hobby Farms

Buyers looking for land shop most during summer.

This includes:

Mapleton
Good Thunder
Amboy
Waldorf
Pemberton
Nicollet
Courtland
Wells
Winnebago

Summer highlights your:

Outbuildings
Pastures
Tillable acres
Property lines
Outdoor living spaces

Drone photography shines this time of year.

⭐ Fall (September–November) — Steady & Motivated Buyers

Great for:

Relocations
Downsizers
Investors
Estate sales
Homes near schools

Fewer listings = stronger competition.

⭐ Winter (December–February) — Less Competition, Serious Buyers

Contrary to myth, winter can be excellent because:

Listings are scarce
Buyers are highly motivated
Homes can sell faster due to low competition

Especially beneficial in larger areas:

Mankato
North Mankato
St. Peter

⭐ Special Situations

Estate sales: Often cannot wait — and winter is often fine.
Divorce: Timeline depends on court requirements.
Rental properties: Sell any time; ROI depends on vacancy dates.
Commercial: Demand is steady year-round.
Multifamily: Investors buy based on financials, not season.