Real estate inventories are at their lowest this time of year. Your home has less competition on the market. Less completion means not only more attention, but potentially firmer pricing.
Serious buyers may not be able to wait until spring to buy a home. Relocating professionals are often completing a move before the end of the 1st quarter.
Buyers who have pre-approvals in hand need to act on them before they expire. Also, mortgage interest rates today are excellent, but procrastinating buyers face a risk of future rate changes.
Buyers who are watching the market may be waiting for a home just like yours!
And while we can’t bank on weather conditions, mild winters tend to encourage early activity in the real estate market. In some areas there’s still green grass on the lawn! This means the exterior photos of your home will look like early spring – no need to wait for snow melt. Procrastinating sellers “waiting for spring” could find themselves shoveling snow in March or April.
Regardless of the season, economic conditions, rather than weather conditions, influence buyers. Inclement weather may affect open houses and drive-bys, but no storm lasts forever.
There are few details to keep in mind when selling in winter. During winter months, you’ll need to keep sidewalks and driveways cleared, and salted if necessary. You’ll also want to have your home feeling warm and cozy – which could mean turning up the heat prior to showings. On dreary days, opening blinds and curtains, and turning on the lights will chase away gloom.
If you have a home to sell in the Chicago North Shore area, Evanston, the Indiana shoreline or Harbor Country, let us prepare a customized marketing strategy for you. Our team of dedicated professionals understand home buyers and know what they look for at different price levels. Contact us today for an evaluation of your home, or for any real estate questions you may have.
Wishing you a happy and prosperous New Year,
Shoreline Property Advisors
@ Prudential Rubloff
