Trying to decide when to put your home on the market can be tricky, because there are pros and cons associated with every season. For this article, we wanted to highlight some of the benefits associated with selling your home in the last quarter of the year.
House hunters will want to be settled before the holidays
If people are looking to buy a home in the final months of the year, they’re likely to be motivated to move fast. Thanksgiving and the holiday gift-giving season is just around the corner, and most buyers will want to be settled and moved in before the holidays start.
Buyers are ready to make a decision
Some real estate agents have found that people who start house hunting in the spring and summer are less interested in buying and more interested in seeing what’s out there. When buyers spend some time evaluating the market and checking out various properties, they’ll have a good sense about what they want. House hunters who are still looking in Q4 are often ready to make a move.
There’s not as much competition
When it comes to selling a home, timing is everything. Although some people are concerned Q4 won’t have as many active buyers, it’s also worth noting that at this time of year, fewer homes are on the market. Homeowners who work to enhance their curb appeal and decorate their home with autumn-based themes may find they’re able to attract a buyer sooner now, than they would have had they listed in Q2.
You may be wrong about your buyers’ demographic
It’s true that families tend to do their house hunting in the spring, so they’ll be able to move, unpack and get settled before the school year starts. However, there are still lots of buyers out there that do not have children. When you list your home in the fall, you’re likely to attract empty-nesters, young professionals and couples that haven’t yet started a family.
You’ll also want to keep this in mind when you start to stage your space. Buyers in this demographic aren’t necessarily looking for extra bedrooms to house their tiny humans. They may, however, be interested in having a separate home office or exercise room. If you have an extra bedroom and a pile of exercise equipment in the garage, consider turning your spare room into a fitness space, to help buyers envision what they could do once they move in.
You may get a great deal on home improvement items
Your real estate agent may have suggested you do some light home improvement projects before they list your home. If you’re thinking about upgrading your landscaping, painting your home or upgrading the fixtures in your kitchen and bathrooms, fall is a great time to get a discount on these items. If you’re planning on upgrading your appliances, be sure to check out the Consumer Reports website to learn more about the best time to buy.
Two words: Black Friday
If you’re wanting up upgrade your furniture when you move into your new home, Black Friday is a great time to get deals. Homeowners who buy new bedroom sets, living room sets or dining room tables often find their money goes a lot farther when they buy during this time of year. Make a list of what you need, determine your budget and take advantage of online and in-store sale pricing.
House hunters have a better buying experience
Summer heat can be brutal- especially in Southwest Florida. Although it’s not unusual to experience hot, muggy humid days in June, July and August, temperatures in the fall tend to be more favorable. If it’s getting close to the holidays, consider staging your dining room as if you’re about to host a family meal. Don’t forget to stage the outside of your home with seasonally appropriate plants, as this can help create a warm, inviting feel.
You may attract snowbirds
Anyone who has ever lived in the Midwest or Northeast knows how brutal winters can be. One buyer we spoke with recalled her last winter in Pittsburgh. Temperatures were below 10 degrees for most of December, she said, and the idea of spending another winter cooped up, indoors was almost too much to bear. The following year, she started shopping for a vacation home as soon as the leaves started to change color. She flew to Southwest Florida, met with a real estate agent and made an offer on a home within days.
In closing
If you’re wanting to sell your home, Q4 is a great time to do it. For more information about the benefits of selling in October, November or December, be sure to ask a local real estate agent.
D. Michael Burke, P.A.
Paradise Luxury Group
Keller Williams Elite Realty
26381 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 300
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
239-498-7600
Michael@ParadiseREG.com
www.ParadiseLuxuryGroup.com
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