The holiday season is typically not synonymous with the home selling market, but it can be a great time to sell if you decide to list during the holidays. While there are usually fewer buyers looking for homes during the holiday months, there are several reasons why this time of year is still a positive time to sell. So, if you’re on the fence about listing your home, read on to find out why you should sell your home over the holidays.
Low Inventory
The real estate market is usually the most active post-Super Bowl in early February, through the beginning of the school year in August. Many sellers decide to take their homes off the market in the fall if their house didn’t sell during that time window. Since there are usually fewer homes for sale during the winter months, selling your home during the holidays means less inventory and less competition. Selling your home during the holidays means it can sell a lot faster than if you sell it during prime real estate season. In addition, if there is a buyer who wants to move into your neighborhood, your home will look a lot more appealing.
Serious Buyers
Buyers who are home searching between Thanksgiving and New Year’s are typically serious about making an offer and want to buy quickly. Homes for sale during the winter months don’t normally attract casual searchers—the buyers searching during the holidays want a home and want it fast. So, if you’re looking to sell quickly, listing during the holidays can be the most strategic way to accomplish this.
Increased Curb Appeal
While the leaves have fallen and the summer flowers have reached their expiration date, neighborhoods decked with holiday lights, wreaths and other exterior decor have an inviting warmth and charm that can’t be replicated other times of the year. However, remember that less is more is best with your holiday decor if you’re selling your home. Scaled back exterior white lights and a single wreath on the door will make your home feel inviting but will also allow buyers to envision themselves in the house during the rest of the year.
Year-End Tax Breaks
Closing on a house before the end of the year can qualify buyers for certain tax breaks. A December 31 closing date means that buyers may be able to deduct property taxes and mortgage interest. This may mean the difference between buying a home in December instead of the spring for some buyers. Delaying buying a home also means risking rising interest rates. If the current interest rates appeal to some buyers, they may be more inclined to buy instead of waiting it out.
If you can’t wait until the weather warms up to list your home, it’s not a problem. Knowing the benefits of listing your home during the holidays may bring you peace of mind and the prospect that you will sell your home by the new year.
