This time every year, homeowners who are planning to move have a decision to make: sell now or wait until after the holidays? Some sellers with homes already on the market may even remove their listing until the new year.
But the truth is, many buyers want to purchase a home for the holidays, and your house might be just what they’re looking for. As an article from Fortune Builders explains:
“ . . . while a majority of people take a step back from the real estate market during the holiday months, you may find when the temperature drops, your potential for a great real estate deal starts to rise.”
To help prove that point, here are four reasons you shouldn’t wait to sell your house.
1. The desire to own a home doesn’t stop during the holidays. While a few buyers might opt to delay their moving plans until January, others may need to move now because something in their life has changed. The buyers who look for homes at this time of year are usually motivated to make their move happen and are eager to buy. A recent article from Investopedia says:
“Anyone shopping for a new home between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is likely going to be a serious buyer. Putting your home on the market at this time of year and attracting a serious buyer can often result in a quicker sale.”
2. While the supply of homes for sale has increased a little bit lately, overall inventory is still lower than it was before the pandemic. What does that mean for you? If you work with an agent to price your house at market value, it could still sell quickly because today’s buyers are craving more options – and your home may be exactly what they’re searching for.
3. You can determine the days and times that are most convenient for you for home showings. That can help you minimize disruptions to your own schedule, which can be especially important during this busy time of year. Plus, you may find buyers are more flexible on when they’ll tour a house this time of year because they have more time off from work around the holidays.
4. And finally, homes decorated for the holidays appeal to many buyers. For those buyers, it’s easy to picture gathering with their loved ones in the home and making memories of their own. An article on selling at this time of year offers this advice:
“If you’re selling around a holiday and have decorations up, make sure they accent—not overpower—a room. Less is more.”
Bottom Line
As the holiday season approaches, the status of your house as a potential buyer’s dream home becomes increasingly crucial. The real estate market during this festive period is uniquely dynamic, with buyers often driven by the desire to settle into a new home before the year concludes. Ensuring your house is at the top of a buyer’s wish list involves strategic considerations beyond just the physical attributes of the property.
Firstly, a warm and inviting atmosphere can significantly enhance your home’s appeal during the holiday season. Consider subtle decorations and seasonal touches that create a welcoming ambiance. Additionally, emphasizing any unique features of your property that align with the spirit of the holidays—whether it’s a cozy fireplace, spacious kitchen for holiday gatherings, or a beautifully landscaped outdoor space—can make your home stand out among the options.
Furthermore, pricing your home competitively and being open to negotiation can be a powerful strategy to attract motivated buyers during this time. Leverage the holiday season’s emotional resonance by showcasing how your home can be a haven for festive celebrations and family gatherings.
Ultimately, recognizing and tapping into the seasonal motivations of potential buyers can position your house as the top choice in their wish list. With thoughtful preparation and a strategic approach, your home can be a sought-after gem in the competitive holiday real estate market.
Let’s chat and see if it’s the right time for you to sell.
