House hunters can score better deals this winter

The big picture: There's less competition among buyers right now — thanks to mortgage rates and the typical holiday season demand dip — which leaves some room for buyers to negotiate better deals.

What's happening: Most sellers — sitting on record-low mortgage rates — are only moving if they have to. Desperate to close the deal, they might throw in cash for repairs, closing costs or mortgage rate buydowns, per Redfin.

• Some sellers will pay cash toward a temporary, lower mortgage rate for the buyer instead of reducing the asking price, mortgage lender Donny Kirby tells Axios.
• It helps make "the payment palatable in the first couple of years," and most buyers are betting they can refinance later, he says.

Bottom line: Desperate sellers and minimal competition help give buyers a bit more power this winter.