10 Reasons Why Listing Your Home In Winter Can Make You More Money

If you feel like listing your home during the winter months is a waste of time, you are not alone. And as a matter of fact, for this very reason, you could stand to make more money if you do.

Let me let you in on a little secret...selling your home in the winter could not only net you more gains, but also happen weeks or even months faster than in the Spring or Summer.

Here's why...

Fewer showings- It is true that while there are fewer shoppers in the winter who are ready to "jump", those buyers are usually highly qualified and ready to buy. And those profoundly qualified buyers are looking to do just that...BUY! They are not just peeping in on every open house because it's a beautiful day. HINT-if you have a prospective buyer who is willing to come view your home in the middle of a snowstorm, rest assured they are likely willing to submit an offer and sign a contract.

Less Competition- The "Lookie Loos" (as I like to call them), are usually just wandering around from every Open House listed online; grabbing the free snacks and "doing something" with their day. They are less likely to be the ones who will snag your home. The "Lookie Loos" come out in the Spring and Summer and usually hibernate during Fall and Winter. This means that during the late Fall and Winter months, you will have more serious buyers as well as fewer homes on the market--a WIN WIN, for you.

Homes Usually Show Better During the Holidays- We all know how much buyers love a well staged home. And can there be any better time than the Holidays for this to stand out? You'll have your grandmother's beautiful knickknacks on display (which are sure to garner the attention of many) and your best China adorning the dining room table like art work. And not to mention the beauty of a fresh smelling Douglas Fir which will be cradling your children's first ornaments and the beautiful twinkling lights that accompany them. Dressing your home up for Holiday Celebrations create a cozy atmosphere; and with cozy comes comfort, and comfort means a longer stay for your potential buyers.

January is a BIG "Transfer" Month- Lots of corporate moves happen at the beginning of the year. Think San Francisco Lawyer makes partner and transfers to the Boston office; or General Surgeon makes the move from small town practice, to big city Hospital. All of these people will be looking to buy!

Time is Yours- Your time frame for moving could likely have the ball all in your court. This is a great time to really think about when you want to move and negotiating a closing time that can align more significantly with your family needs. You may want to be under contract by February 1, but not close and move until April 1; to many, this is an advantage. Potential buyers are more likely to engage in a short term rental nearby just to get the house of their dreams and at a price that both you (and they) love.

This is the Best Time to Shop- since this time is a great time for you to sell, it's also a great time for you to buy for all of the above reasons, too!

Primo Advertising- Since most agencies usually have less inventory during these months; agents, agencies and social media outlets will likely produce a better outcome for your home to be seen because it is not being swallowed up by the hundreds of other homes on the market.

More Attention- Adding on to the above, your home will likely get more attention from agents who represent your listing, as well as agents who may bring the buyer to your home. Highly related to fewer clients to manage.

Lenders- Lenders are not huge fans of slow periods, either. Buying your home in Spring or Summer can equate to long waiting periods for pre-qualification and ultimately your mortgage commitment. Trust me when I tell you, lenders will be giving your their (almost) undivided attention between November and February. Hint-Since today's interest rates are still low, this gives buyers greater spending power! (Which will also help you after you sell your home and you are looking to secure financing for your next home purchase)

Tax Breaks, Incentives and Bonuses- Many highly motivated buyers want to close before the year ends to take advantage of tax breaks and/or to spend year-end bonuses (which can be a huge benefit for buyers) This will also benefit you as a seller who may be looking for a quick close, or expedited purchase.

***Note, I am not a tax professional. Always, always, always seek the advice of a qualified tax professional when it comes to anything that has to do with taxes...always, always, always.

For more information please feel free to contact me directly via email at maryjane@truenorthrealty.net

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