If you're serious about buying a home, fall might be the perfect time of year to make it happen. But it has a particular set of challenges too.

There's a reason people love the fall. After months of oppressive summer heat and humidity, autumn is the welcome relief: cool, crisp air and those colorful oft-changing landscapes. Anything pumpkin-flavored is a bonus too. But it's not just the cool weather and football season that you should be excited about. House hunting in the fall can be very successful.

Whether you're looking at homes for sale in Taos or Angel Fire, NM autumn can prove to be a great time to buy. That's not to say it doesn't have its challenges, though. Here are the ways in which buying a home this season can reward you with big dividends or prove to be somewhat difficult.

Pro: Sellers are serious

As in, serious about selling their homes this time of year. "Even though there typically is less inventory, the people that put their homes on the market this time of year are more serious about selling -- otherwise they would wait until spring," explains Brockman. "Motivated sellers equals more flexibility during negotiations. There is often less competition from other buyers because families don't like to move in the middle of a school year, people's lives are caught up in sports and holidays, and generally, there is a cocooning effect that takes place as the days grow colder and shorter." All of that means buyers are at a huge advantage when house hunting in the fall.

Pro: Inventory is low

So while sellers are likely to be more motivated to sell, when it comes to the amount of homes on the market, its slim pickin's this time of year. However, the upside to low inventory is this: Since the supply of listings shrinks this time of year, it's easier to narrow down the list of your top properties.

Pro: There's less competition

While the bulk of buyers rushed to get into their homes before the first day of school, you're in luck as a small minority of buyers looking to purchase a home in the fall. This means you have more time to look and the time necessary to properly negotiate a great deal in terms of price and terms that fit your needs. This also means you're not up against as many multiple-offer situations.

Pro: Move-in dates are (likely) flexible

Which means that instead of having to negotiate a 30-day close, sellers are more likely to work with you on a doable time frame. It makes it easier to negotiate delayed closings or extended occupancy dates. Most people do not want to move during the winter and the holidays and are more flexible with dates and deadlines.

Pro: Negotiating is easier

When a seller is motivated to sell, they're more likely to negotiate a bit more with a buyer. Buyers can capitalize on this urgency and use it to their advantage during negotiations.

Whether you are looking to buy or sell a home in Angel Fire or Taos, look to New Mexico Mountain Properties for all of your Real Estate needs. Our warm and inviting staff will help you get exactly what you are looking for, like our majestic mountain homes for sale in Angel Fire will give you the mountain setting you may want while our unique Taos homes for sale will let you get in touch with your creative side. Our Taos Ski Valley and Angel Fire condos for sale will put you right next to all the winter activities. If you're looking to build your own home, then our Angel Fire and Taos land for sale will give you the freedom to create your own dream home. If you are seeking to live totally off the grid, then look to our Taos Earthships for sale. Whatever you're looking for we can help you find it. Give us a call at 575-377-2626 in Angel Fire, 575-758-5852 in Taos or 575-770-3306 to speak directly to an agent. We are here to serve and welcome you to our spectacular area.

Information obtained from Trulia