Diablo Gazette November 2021

Is Winter a Good Time to Sell?

Each month, I provide the County real estate statistics. The monthly statistics are showing a bit of a change over the summer months. Sometimes the statistics show a trend or situational slowdown from things like the recent rainstorm.

This begs the question: Is winter, an optimum time to sell? Oftentimes, the market is jump started by the homes that come on the market right after the first of the year. Contributing factors that happen then are also present during the Holiday Season.

For example, there are fewer homes on the market and the buyers who want a jump on the market, are out buying. This can cause bidding because there are fewer homes and more buyers vying for them. With that in mind, buyers are out there, interest rates are low, and the inclement weather brings out only the serious buyers. If now is the time you want to sell, try it. You might be surprised.

The three Cs

How do you prepare your home to sell around the holidays? Let the three “Cs” guide you to earning top dollar in any home sale: Condition, Clutter and Clean.

For condition, get your inspections early so you know what is needed that can be easily dealt with, planned for, or negotiated. Homes in the best condition typically go for more money and sell faster.

Clutter is costing you money; decluttering is the easiest way to create space and bring you additional dollars.

Clean every surface including the windows, garages, and closets too. Also, a clean smelling home with no pet or cooking odors is quite necessary. Scents like cinnamon, pine or fresh baked cookies or breads make an impression on buyers. Buyers want to invest in good homes, and a clean home appears well taken care of.

Holiday Selling Tips

During the holidays, why not put a wreath on the door, inviting buyers to be imagining their own holidays there? A few lights around a tree or eaves are ok. Lights on backyard gazebos or patios are fine anytime of the year. Keep in mind, everyone does not celebrate the holidays the same way, so avoid over decorating.

Do not put a huge tree in a small room, but if you have a two-story ceiling, a large tree might show it off. Be tasteful; keep presents hidden away and no stockings on the mantel.

I advise to clients that it is most important to leave your heat on at a temperature that feels warm and welcoming when it is cold outside. This is not something you want to skimp on. It is false economy to have a cold house. No one will stay long, and that is not the goal, is it? The more time they spend considering your home for their home will result in better offers. Light the fireplace in winter, and in summer be sure the AC is on to keep things cool on hot days.

Ask your Realtor and/or Stager for their recommendations tailored to your home.

For information on the statistics for your area, or any of these topics, call your local Realtor. It is their job to know the local market.