Is Winter the New Spring? Home Selling Tips

Are you considering selling a home during the winter, but wondering if you should hold off until Spring? Surprisingly, they are some advantages to selling a home during the winter months that may surprise you!

Selling a Home in Winter

The Internet Doesn’t Know it's Winter!

When it comes to a home search, it’s no surprise that nearly 95% of home buyers use the internet as the starting point in their home search. With instant access to properties, the temperature outside is irrelevant.

And although spring is definitely the king of the home-buying season, serious home buyers are always on the prowl—checking out listings on their tablet just before bed or browsing listings during their kids’ sports events. The weather may be cool and holiday activities may ensue, but home buyers will keep shopping with the internet at their fingertips.

Less Sellers Means Less Competition

Once spring arrives, homes will begin to saturate the market and your home will be competing with many others in the big real estate pond. During the winter, a serious buyer has less homes to choose from. This results in less competition for a seller which could actually result in a faster home sale.

Buyers Aren’t Fooling Around

Buyers that are willing to schedule around holiday plans and inclement weather are not just casually browsing. That’s because many winter buyers are working against a deadline, whether it’s a relocation, an expiring lease, relocation, or even a contract on their current home.

A Little Extra Free Time

It’s wise to keep in mind that many people have more scheduled time off from a hectic work schedule during the winter holidays. This fact can swing in your favor as potential buyers are searching the internet and looking at potential homes while dreaming of future décor.

Don’t Forget the Tax Breaks

Many winter home buyers are motivated to capture the tax benefits of buying a home before year-end. Because home buyers can write off some the expenses of the home purchase from their taxes, Sellers may benefit from the year-end surge.

Tips for Selling in the Winter

If you decide to sell your home during the winter, remember a few things to get buyers in the mood:

• Don’t Overdo the “Jolly." If you’re selling around a holiday and have decorations up, make sure they don’t overpower or clutter a room. Less is more.

• Cozy. If you have a fireplace, light it! Simmer some mulled cider on the stove and play some quiet holiday music in the background.

• Check those Outdoor Lights. Don’t leave potential Buyers stumbling around in the dark. Make sure your outdoor lighting is in good working condition.

• Keep the Landscape Fresh. Rake the leaves regularly and plant some cyclamen, pansies, mums or other cool-weather annuals for a spark of color. Check out some great winter plantings here.

If you have questions about selling your home, I’d love to give you my perspective on your personal situation. Call anytime!