Homebuyers in many U.S. metros may find their best negotiating opportunities in late August or September, when discounts from original asking prices typically widen through price cuts and buyer-seller negotiations. A Redfin analysis found late August is the prime deal window in Anaheim, Austin, Nassau County, Newark, Oakland, Portland, Sacramento and San Jose. Early September is favored in Atlanta, Denver and Seattle. Mid-September is the strongest period in Baltimore, Dallas, Fort Worth, Jacksonville, Los Angeles, Nashville, San Antonio and San Diego, while late September is the sweet spot in Houston, Las Vegas, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. Discounts generally plateau or shrink as winter approaches. Redfin senior economist Asad Khan said buyers in the identified markets may benefit from acting as summer ends, while sellers whose homes have remained listed since spring or early summer may be more willing to cut prices or offer concessions. Many of the markets are buyer's markets, where buyers have greater negotiating power, although Nassau County and Newark are seller's markets. Redfin economists cautioned that the best buying period also depends on the balance between inventory and competition: more listings increase choice, while stronger competition can force buyers to make stronger offers and reduce the likelihood of securing a discount.