8 Reasons Why December is a Great Time to Sell a Home

While it may seem counterintuitive due to myths out there about the real estate market slowing or even stopping in December, the holidays are actually a perfect time to sell your home!

How so?

Well, here are 8 reasons why you should buy or sell a home during the holidays:

1. Serious Buyers: Let's be honest with ourselves here; if you're looking to buy a home during the holidays then you are serious about locating your new residence! While there are fewer of these people out there in general, the ones who are actively looking mean business and are ready to buy.

2. Low Supply: Historically, there are less homes for buyers to check out around the holidays. However, this also means there's less competition to garner their attention! The supply also historically goes up when the New Year hits and that will mean more competition, longer days on market and potentially less money for your home.

3. Ample Time: Sure, your first instinct is probably saying that people are way too busy during the holidays to view homes, but think again! Numerous buyers have less demanding schedules or even time off during Christmas and the New Year as opposed to a normal work week. This is especially true for relocation buyers which is one of the best opportunities for a seller. They only have a short time to find their next home before the New Year relocation and will need to buy quick! (Read #6)

4. Sell High, Buy Low: If you're targeting the 2016 Spring market to buy your new home then selling now (and potentially renting short term) enables you to be a non-contingent buyer when you are ready to purchase in the Spring. What could be more ideal from a negotiation standpoint? The Spring time will inevitably bring a multitude of more buyers into the marketplace for you to compete with and you will be able to differentiate yourself as an ideal buyer who can compete with anyone -- without the contingency of your home selling!

5. Scheduling Control: As the seller, you can control and limit showings so as not to throw off your holiday plans. No need to worry about the sale throwing off your holiday schedule as YOU are in control!

6. Capture the Relocating Buyer: The beginning of the year is often a time period where there is an increase of employees beginning new jobs or transferring within the same company. What happens when someone is transferred or takes on a new position in a different city? That's right, they'll more than likely be looking for a new place to call home and they'll need it ASAP! If you don't want to miss out on this potential buyer demographic then you need to be on the market during the final months of the year to capture them.

7. Holiday Decorations: What better time of year to bring out the best of your home than the holidays. When your home is decked out and dressed to the nines with wreaths, red bows & lights, it will show beautifully! While the winter scents of cinnamon & pine will appeal to their senses, the Holiday vibe will appeal to their emotions and make them feel like they've been at home all along (increasing their attachment and willingness to pay your asking price)!

8. Move in the Spring: If needed, you can negotiate a longer closing period or an extended use and occupancy to allow yourself to move well after the holiday season is over in January, February or March.

Thanks for reading and we'd love to help you list your home for the holidays! Contact us here for a seller strategy session.