Nobody buys or sells a home in the winter. Right? Wrong!
According to Dave Ramsey, about 19% of all homes sold between September 2018 and August 2019 closed between December 2018 and February 2019.
Here are some reasons to sell when the air gets chilly:
The Internet Has No Seasons – It’s estimated that 93% of buyers use the
internet during their home search. Instant access to property listings has had an impact on the typical seasons buyers look for homes. While spring is still the hottest home-buying season, serious home buyers are always on the lookout.
Fewer Sellers – Come spring, more sellers will enter the market. During the winter, the number of sellers on the market is limited. Based on 2018 statistics, Dave Ramsey estimates there’s 12% fewer listings during the winter months which means less competition for sellers!
Winter Buyers Mean Business – Buyers trudging around in freezing weather or breaking away from their holiday schedule to look at your home are likely serious. Winter buyers often have a deadline, whether it’s an expiring lease, or a contract on their current home.
Time Off – While the holiday schedule can be hectic, many people also have more time off during the holidays. That means more time for browsing their favorite home apps, and scheduling home showings.
Getting Tax Breaks Before Year-End – Some winter home buyers are motivated to capture the tax benefits of buying a home before year-end. This may include tax deductions such as mortgage interest, private mortgage insurance (PMI) premiums, and real estate taxes. Investors may be motivated to close before the end of the year to replace a property that recently sold.
Tips for Selling in the Winter:
• Keep it simple. If you’re selling around a holiday and have decorations up, make sure they accent – not overpower – a room. Less is more.
• Crank up the cozy. Light a fire in the hearth, play soft holiday music in the background, and prepare fresh-baked goods or mulled cider for guests.
• Shine a light outside. Winter days get dark early. Brighten your home’s exterior with outdoor spotlights, including the area where agents and buyers are accessing the lock box and entry door.
• Avoid a winter wonderland. Buyers want to see details of the house, not a blanket of snow. Make sure you have clear-weather photos of your home.
Call me to talk about the reasons to sell your home this winter!
www.daveramsey.com