What You Should Know About Selling Your Home This Winter
Most real estate agents and attorneys will tell you that that the spring and summer are the most popular seasons for buying a new home. As a result, they are also the seasons during which many people will sell their home, since, without a home that is for sale, the buyer cannot buy, obviously.
While it is true that spring and summer are traditionally the prime home-buying seasons, if you are ready to move now, there is no reason to wait until winter is over. With the right guidance, selling your home during the colder months could help you realize an excellent return on your investment.
A Smaller, More Competitive Market
Since springtime is allegedly the “best” time to sell a home, many owners throughout the region are likely to wait until the weather breaks before they list their homes. This means that if you decide to wait as well, your home will be on the market with dozens, if not hundreds, of homes, many of which will probably be in and around your neighborhood.
If you list your home now, there will be fewer homes available compared to a few months from now. As a result, your home will be able to stand out from the crowd. With fewer available options, potential buyers are more likely to end up looking in your direction.
Fewer Browsers and More Buyers
The “slower” home sales season also means that fewer buyers will be out and about looking for new homes. Those who are looking, however, are likely to be much more serious than those you might encounter during the warmer months. When the weather is nice, engaged couples and families often start browsing the real estate listings and attending open houses without any real intention to make an offer. During the colder months, you will have to spend less time and energy on “lookers” or “browsers,” allowing you to focus on well-intentioned buyers.
Highlighting the Features of Your Home
Meticulous landscaping and lush, green grass can certainly give your home curb appeal in the spring and summer, but the winter provides an opportunity to show would-be buyers that your home is equipped to handle the elements. If you have recently installed new windows or a high-efficiency furnace, for example, it is easier to show the benefits of such features during a cold-weather showing. Amenities such as hot tubs or fireplaces could also offer substantial appeal during the winter months.
Finally, nearly every home looks its best after it has been decorated for the winter holidays. Shimmering lights and colorful decorations create a welcoming atmosphere. When would-be buyers or open house guests feel at home, they are often more inclined to make a serious offer.
Call a Wheaton Real Estate Lawyer
While selling your home is possible during the winter, you will still have many legal issues to address before the new owner can move in. Contact a skilled and experienced DuPage County real estate attorney to get the help you need. Call Stock, Carlson & Asso. LLC at 630-665-2500 for a personal consultation today.
Sources:
https://www.zillow.com/sellers-guide/selling-house-during-winter-holidays/
https://www.fortunebuilders.com/winter-home-selling/