When is the Right Time to Sell My Home?
This is a frequently asked question, When is the right time to sell my home? Well, most people prefer the spring or summer months to move so this is when the real estate market is brewing, but the market can start heating up as early as February. This is especially true of families with children because they’d prefer to move during the summer vacation and get settled into their new home before the new school year begins. The market usually stays active through the fall, But when November comes things slow down pretty quickly and stay that way through January. People don’t generally like showing their homes in the winter months because you have the holidays and a lot more maintenance on the home to always keep it in showing condition.
Here are some of the Pros and Cons of selling a home in the winter:
• Showing your house in the winter can get messy, a potential home buyer can be walking through your home with snow, mud and salt covered boots and we all know salt is no friend to your wood floors.
• A potential home buyer visiting your home won’t really be able to see what the landscaping looks like and the truth is sometimes beautiful landscaping can help sell your house fast.
• The sellers who list their house for sale during November, December & January need to price their home conservatively because home buyers won’t overpay in the winter months.
• An advantage to selling in the winter is you’ll be placing your home for sale before many other homes in your neighborhood, possible giving you a head start.
• Another possible advantage occurs when home buyers are forced to relocate.. If they’re moving into you neighborhood your home will be among the fewer homes on the market.
So it’s pretty clear if your going to sell your home the best time to list your house for sale is in the spring and summer, but if you are selling your home in the winter try to stay on top of winter maintenance so you can maintain a higher value for your home. A neatly shoveled driveway and cleared walkway can add a nice touch when welcoming visitors. Make sure your furnace is in good working condition and that the room temperature is kept at a comfortable level. It is important to also check in on the basement and make sure you don’t have any leaks or drafts coming in. Also, try not to go overboard with your holiday decorations; buyer should have a chance to see you home in its normal everyday condition.