Many prospective sellers feel they should wait for spring to sell their home. They feel this way because of the seasonal downturn in the market and because homes don’t look as good without exterior flowers and plants and the general grayness of our part of the country. However, there are several good reasons to list your home during the winter. The most serious buyers will still be out there – those that need to buy because of job relocation or need different space. And inventory is at it’s lowest, giving buyers fewer choices, so your home will stand out more. Mortgage rates are expected to increase in 2015, so buyers may have greater buying power earlier in the year.
Real estate company Redfin analyzed homes listed from March 22, 2011 through March 21, 2013. They found that those listed in the winter have a 9% greater likelihood of selling, sell a week faster, and sell for 1.2% more relative to list price than homes listed other times of the year.
To sell your home in the winter, there are some key things to do. Keep your home warm and cozy – buyers need to be comfortable when they come in the house and the warmer it is, the more likely they’ll stay longer. Leave lights on and shades open to keep the home bright. Make sure the yard stays neat and the roof is clean. Stage the home and have professional photographs that show off the home at its best.
Thinking about listing your home this winter or spring. Give me a call or email to discuss a complimentary market analysis and marketing plan for your home.