As your trusted real estate advisor, I’m here to keep you informed about upcoming events. These events may impact your daily routine and real estate plans. One such event is Daylight Saving Time, which affects everything from home showings to curb appeal.

Here’s what you need to know about the spring forward time change. Learn how it can influence your real estate experience.

When Do Clocks ‘Spring Forward’?

  • Date: Sunday, March 9, 2025
  • Time: At 2:00 AM local standard time, clocks will move forward one hour to 3:00 AM local daylight time.
  • Why It Matters: We’ll lose an hour of sleep. But, we gain an extra hour of daylight in the evenings. This makes after-work home showings and open houses more convenient.


How Does Daylight Saving Time Impact Real Estate?

Daylight Saving Time isn’t just about adjusting clocks—it can have a big impact on the real estate market. Here’s how:

More Time for Evening Home Showings

  • Longer daylight hours mean more flexibility for after-work showings, which can be a game-changer for busy home buyers.
  • Sellers can attract more potential buyers who prefer to visit homes in daylight rather than after dark.

Enhanced Curb Appeal

  • Homes look their best when viewed in natural daylight, highlighting landscaping, exterior details, and outdoor amenities.
  • If you’re selling, now is the perfect time to spruce up your yard. Repaint exteriors. Add outdoor lighting for greatest impact.

Boost in Buyer Activity

  • Spring and summer are peak real estate seasons.
  • More daylight encourages house hunting and open house attendance.

Increased Home Energy Usage

  • While extended daylight reduces indoor lighting needs, many homeowners use more energy for air conditioning as temperatures rise.
  • Smart thermostats and energy-efficient upgrades can help regulate utility costs, making homes more appealing to eco-conscious buyers.

Outdoor Spaces Become More Important

  • Buyers are more interested in patios, decks, pools, and backyards when daylight hours extend.
  • If you’re selling, consider staging outdoor spaces with cozy seating areas. Add fire pits and lush landscaping. These elements will enhance your home’s appeal.

Who Doesn’t Observe Daylight Saving Time?

Not all U.S. states and territories join in Daylight Saving Time. If you’re moving or investing in real estate outside your local area, here’s where the time won’t change:

  • Hawaii
  • Arizona (except for the Navajo Nation)
  • U.S. Territories: Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands

Will Daylight Saving Time Become Permanent?

  • The Sunshine Protection Act was passed by the U.S. Senate in 2022, proposing permanent daylight saving time.
  • Nonetheless, the bill has not yet been signed into law, meaning we will continue the biannual clock changes for now.
  • Some states have pushed for legislation to make daylight saving time year-round, but federal approval is required.

Real Estate Pro Tips for Adjusting to Daylight Saving Time

Sellers:
Update your home’s curb appeal with fresh landscaping and lighting.
Schedule home showings in the afternoon or early evening to take advantage of natural light.
Highlight outdoor spaces in your listing photos and staging.

Buyers:
Take advantage of longer daylight hours to view more homes in person.
Schedule home inspections while natural light is available to spot potential issues.
Plan your home search around spring market trends when inventory increases.

Daylight Saving Time isn’t just about changing the clocks. It impacts your daily routine, energy use, and even the real estate market. Whether you’re buying or selling, taking advantage of longer daylight hours can help you make the most of the season.

Don’t forget to set your clocks forward one hour on March 9, 2025!

Looking to buy or sell this spring? Let’s connect and find the perfect home for you! Stay informed with exclusive tips and market insights by subscribing to our weekly newsletter.

Source: Article from NBC Chicago.