We know what you’re thinking. Nobody sells their home during the winter and nobody wants to buy a home during the winter. Actually, you’d be surprised by how many homes are bought and sold during these frigid months. Here are the facts: 973,000 homes were sold in America between December 2018 and February 2019. That means nearly 20% of the homes that were sold between September 2018 and August 2019 were sold during the winter! Of course, spring and summer are more popular selling seasons, but winter definitely held its own!
Here are a few reasons why you should sell this winter:
The Internet Is Season-less
Most buyers start online when searching for a home, where the weather is irrelevant. Instant access to property listings has had an effect on the typical buyer season. Spring is still the most popular season to buy, but the most serious buyers are always on the hunt for the right home.
Fewer Sellers
During the spring, sellers will flood the market with dozens or even hundreds of new listings popping up, depending on your location. 210,000 homes fell off the market from November to December 2018. Take advantage of the fact that there will be fewer buying options, giving you a better chance of standing out from the crowd and selling your home faster.
Serious Buyers Only
Almost everyone will be curling up next to their fire or heater on those freezing winter days. If a buyer is out braving the elements in December and January, taking time during their holiday schedules, they must be serious about their house hunting. Most winter buyers are working against some sort of deadline, whether it be an expiring lease, a contract on their current home, or simple relocation.
Tips For Selling In Winter
Now that you’re up to speed, we’ve got a few tips to help you sell this season!
Easy on the decorations, Santa. We know, we know. Christmas decorations and holiday spirit and all that. Now that it’s a new year, however, you’ll want to take them down as soon as possible. Not only will this present you as responsible homeowners, but it will also prevent your decorations from overpowering both the exterior and interior of your home.
Keep It Cozy. Light a fire if you have the option, if not, make sure it’s nice and warm inside. Try to have freshly baked goods or maybe some mulled cider for your guests to make things feel warm and homey.
Light It Up. It gets dark very early during the winter. Make sure the exterior of your home is well lit to prevent any falls and to showcase the exterior of your beautiful home.
No Winter Wonderlands. Snow can look quite attractive in the right situation, but buyers are here to see the house and all its wonderful details, not just a blanket of white. Make sure you have well-lit and preferably clear weather photos of your home.
It might be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean your chances of selling are getting colder. You might find that your opportunity to sell is actually heating up this winter!
Thanks for the inspiration, Dave Ramsey: Selling Your Home In Winter