Every year, during the holidays, home sellers decide to take their homes off of the market. Some major concerns for those who would like to sell their home during the holiday season, but do not think it’s the right time, are…there are no buyers at this time of the year, my home looks best in the spring time and we won’t be able to entertain our friends and family. These are very valid concerns and each one deserves to be properly addressed.
The major concern of homeowners trying to sell during the holidays is that there are no buyers at this time of the year. This, however, isn’t true. Real estate is a seasonal business and most markets do tend to peak during the summer and closings tail off in the winter. But there are still a lot of closings in November, December in January. Many companies tend to relocate their workers at this time of the year, a lot of buyers prefer to buy in these months because they believe they will get a better deal and there is typically less competition since many homeowners prefer not to sell during the holidays.
Another concern holiday home seller’s have is that their home looks better during the spring and summer months. This may be true for many homes that have elaborate gardens with seasonal flowers and plants. But for many homes, they never look better than in the winter months. They come alive with holiday decorations like Christmas lights, stockings, Menorahs and more. The warmth of the house is welcoming compared to the cold outside, and some fresh baked cookies go a long way for creating the perfect holiday aroma.
During the holiday season, homeowners tend to entertain more often. Enjoying this time of the year with family and friends is the best part of the holiday season. Fearing short noticed showings, or showings on Thanksgiving Day or Christmas, home sellers would just prefer to not deal with the hassle. Having a holiday party, with dozens of guests and a real estate agent showing up with clients would certainly be a deal breaker for most people. Even worse, a knock on the door Christmas morning by the same real estate agent! Although the risk of this happening cannot be eliminated, home sellers can ask for several hours (or a full 24 hours) notice before showings. They can also request for no showings on major holidays. Most agents tend to follow these recommendations and I’ve never heard of an agent knocking on the door on Christmas morning, although I’m sure it has happened.
If you are a potential home seller trying to figure out if the holidays are the right time of the year to sell definitely consider these points. Many people prefer to, or have to, buy a home during the holidays. Since you probably get a little festive, your home will most likely be well decorated, ready for company and very inviting. Rude agents showing up in a moment’s notice and on a major holiday is a risk but putting some extra remarks in your listing will help with this. If you have time on your side, then wait. But if you would prefer to get the home sold, you will have plenty of opportunities to make it happen during the holiday season.
Author Resource:
Brett Meade is a NE Tacoma real estate specialist for NW Home Brokers. Lately, his focus has been on Tacoma condos for sale. For more information check out http://www.realestatesupermall.com .