You’re probably gearing up for the hectic holiday season––hanging decorations, buying gifts, researching eggnog recipes—and like most people, you might just assume that now is not a great time to buy or sell a home. Not so fast!
Although a more traditional approach encourages you to postpone your plans to buy or sell until after the ball drops in Time Square, you actually can succeed in buying or selling during the holidays––as long as you have the right approach.
It’s true that inventory is a bit lower this time of year, but that can work in your favor––whether you are a buyer or seller––if you are savvy and determined.
Here’s why:
1.) There are fewer buyers out there. Many buyers think that it’s not a good time to buy a home in the holiday season, so they put their purchase on the back burner and take their eye off the real estate ball. That means less competition for those buyers who are serious about finding a home right now.
For sellers, the buyers that are actively looking for a home are serious—willing to do what it takes to get a home before the new year. They could be transferring to a job in the area or moving for another important reason that can’t be delayed. All these factors could mean a quick, smooth sale for you.
2.) There are fewer homes on the market. Sellers who are not as motivate to sell take their home take it off the market, or delay listing their property all together, until after the new year. Therefore, any home on the market now will stand out and get a lot of attention.
For buyers, there may be fewer homes on the market but what homes you see WANT to be sold. This is the season for good deals.
3.) Homes and neighborhoods can feel cozier and more inviting. ‘Tis the season when homes look their best, with beautiful trees, holiday lights, and crackling fires.
Homeowners who want to sell during the holiday season should lean in and create an enchanting atmosphere that invites buyers to envision their new lifestyle. During this festive time, the home is transformed into a haven where potential buyers naturally linger and begin to imagine making their future memories.
Buyers get a true sense of community in their potential new home and neighborhood over the holidays. They imagine building new traditions and good times with family, friends, and neighbors.
Some important points to keep in mind:
Online photos are always paramount, but because of crazy holiday schedules and fewer open houses, they are crucial. Sellers should insist that their professional digital photos are stellar to showcase the best features and increase the chances of making it onto buyers ‘must see’ list!
Buyers need to be organized with their time and schedule their appointments around holiday events. Looking at homes still needs to be a priority.
I currently have a client’s home under contract that went on the market between Halloween and Thanksgiving. They will be moving to their new home before Christmas. In addition, the sellers worked opposite schedules leaving very little practical times for showings. They were willing to take my advice to prep their home for the market at every step and their house was “show ready” the day we went live on the market. We got our ideal offer on day one at the open house and they were able to enjoy their Thanksgiving together without people touring through their home. Two model match homes in the same community did not do the necessary preparation and are aging on the market through the holidays and trying to attract buyers with multiple price drops. Having a professional to guide you and allowing them to market your home professionally can truly put dollars in your pocket.
The holiday season can be a great time for both selling and buying a home when you have the right approach and mind set. Make the most of it before the busy Spring season and more competition comes into the market.
If you’ve been thinking of buying or selling, please reach out via text, email, or phone. I’d love to share more insights on how I help you achieve your real estate goals this time of year, especially my off-market plan to find homes that aren’t even available to the public yet. More than any other time of the year, this season is ripe for an off-market sale and I’ll show you how.
Email me at Kathleen@KathleenBanister.com and I’ll tell you all about it!
Happy Holidays!
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