Beat the Crazy Spring Market–Buy or Sell Your Home During the Holidays

You may be gearing up for the busy holiday season – hanging decorations, buying gifts, baking cookies — but may think that buying or selling a home right now is not good timing. Think again!You may be gearing up for the busy holiday season – hanging decorations, buying gifts, baking cookies — but may think that buying or selling a home right now is not good timing. Think again!Although the more traditional approach of real estate would dictate that you put your plans to buy or sell away until the Spring, I tend to go against the grain here at Dwell Residential Brokerage and it works well for my clients to have a similar mind set.Although the inventory is a bit lower this time of year, that can work to your advantage if you are an active buyer or seller right now.Here’s why:1.)  There are less buyers out there.  Many buyers think that now is not a good time to buy a home so they aren’t on top of the market.  That means less competition for the buyers that are serious.  For you sellers, the buyers that are actively looking for a home are serious—willing to do what it takes to get a home before Spring which could mean a quick, easy sale for you.2.)  There are less homes on the market.  Many sellers who are not as serious about selling take their homes off the market or delay listing their property all together until the Spring. So any home for sale now will get attention and stand out on real estate listings.  For buyers, there may be less homes on the market but what you see WANTS to be sold.  This means good deals can be had.3.) Homes feel more cozy in the winter.  ‘Tis the season homes look their best, with beautiful trees, holiday lights, and crackling fires. Sellers should take advantage of that little perk since buyers will want to linger and start to feel at home!  Buyers get a true sense of a neighborhood and home over the holidays.  Who doesn’t want to picture their own traditions in a home?Some important points to keep in mind: Because of crazy holiday schedules and fewer open houses, online photos become even more important.  Sellers should make sure that their professional digital photos show the best features to increase the chances of making it onto buyers ‘must see’ list!Buyers need to be organized with their time and schedule their appointments around holiday events. Looking at homes still needs to be a priority.Still think you should wait until Spring?  Think again—now is a great time for both selling and buying a home so make the most of it before the busy Spring season and more competition comes into the market.Happy Holidays!