In a quandary about when to put your home on the market? You've heard
so many conflicting views as to the best time. Is there really one time
of the calendar year that is better than others? There are many factors
that will affect market activity at a given time, some of which are not
predictable. Area differences and economic conditions can also impact
the flow of real estate transfers as well. However, there are some
consistent factors that occur on a regular basis that you can expect.
For instance, the fourth quarter of the year is impacted by
several of the major holidays that will put a crimp in normal buyer
flow. With two of these important holidays situated only weeks apart, a
normal interruption of buyer interest can occur. In addition, since
schools are in semester break, most people consider family priorities
like vacations and celebrations more important and put housing sales at
less of a priority. Those concerned with year-end financial
responsibilities and deadlines will also make for waning interest. In
addition, the corporate transfer market generally seems to become less
active until after the holiday season subsides. Winter snow covers even
the most elaborate landscaping, which may mean a potential buyer will
have to appreciate that beauty from display photographs instead of the
real thing.
The first quarter of the year enjoys the return of full market
as all attention resumes to a more normal pace. The corporate transfer
market can intensify as new goals are implemented for the new year.
Locational factors can affect activity due to inclement weather
conditions impairing the air and car travel.
April brings tax deadlines which in some cases has affected the middle
weeks of that month. As the Spring season develops, homes seem to have
nicer curb appeal and encourages more "drive-by" traffic. Many leases
come due as the rental market turns over, often encouraging first-time
home buyers to re-evaluate their housing situations. Real life
occurrences still can affect regular flow as three-day weekends take
precedence and schools let out for the summer. Graduation time also can
lend a blow to the normal activity enjoyed in the late May-June period.
Homes generally show their best when the exterior landscaping is in
full bloom and top condition, grabbing the attention of that "drive-by"
buyer.
Third quarter real estate runs fairly uninterrupted but also
has summer vacations, the Fourth of July and Labor Day to obstruct full
market activity. School start ups show to make the last weeks in August
and September slower than the earlier part of the month.
It seems between holidays, school, weather, taxes, and family,
just when is the best time? No one can predict when the one qualified
buyer you need to appreciate your home will be looking in your
neighborhood. Of course, some times seem better than others. Economic
factors, interest rates, and of course, supply and demand will all play
a critically important part as to the strength of the market.
Springtime generally shows an increase of properties offered for sale,
which gives increased selection to the buyer market. Fall may have less
competition, but complications can occur with making moves during the
holiday season and the kids final semester in school.
The one important factor to remember is: A buyer buys when the right
home is offered for the price they are willing to pay at a time they
need to buy. Consider your own personal needs and motivations when
thinking of selling.
66 Gilcreast Road