When the time comes to put your home on the market, many sellers think they should wait until after the holidays. However, there are several unexpected advantages to listing your home now rather than waiting until the New Year.
- Motivated Buyers
Tis the season! There may be fewer buyers looking, but those who are tend to be motivated buyers. Homes often sell faster during the holidays, and for more money. Plus, there’s always that buyer who wants to give the ultimate gift to a loved one – a new home!
- Less Competition
Because the holidays can be hectic, sellers often feel they can’t handle trying to show their home while juggling everything else. Sellers often take the home off the market or wait until the New Year to put it on the market. This means that supply drops significantly, making the remaining houses on the market that much more attractive to buyers.
- Lower Interest Rates
Historically, interest rates are cyclically lower from December through January, making it a more appealing time to buy. Additionally, the Fed has held interest rates very low for nearly nine years.
- Top Notch, Faster Service
The stores may be packed, but your Realtor, title companies, banks, and lenders are probably not so busy, so you’re much more likely to be top priority. Plus, many potential homebuyers have time off from work during the holidays, giving them ample time to search for their new home.
- Your Home Looks Beautiful
You can capitalize on the joy of the season by making your home warm and inviting with cheerful, tasteful holiday decorations and festive aromas, such as vanilla and spiced cider simmering on the stove or freshly baked cookies just out of the oven. This will appeal to the emotions of buyers, leaving them with a memorable impression.
The last week of November and the beginning of December have been surprisingly busy weeks with new contracts getting signed! Contact Houlihan & O’Malley if you are thinking of placing your home on the market this holiday season.
