According to Dave Ramsey, about 20% of all homes sold between September 2018 and August 2019 closed between the winter time of December and February.

Reason to Sell in the Winter:

1. The Internet has No Season: It’s estimated that 93% of buyers use the internet during their home search. Instant access to property listings has had an impact on the typical seasons buyer look for homes. While spring is still the hottest home buying season, serious home buyers are always on the lookout.

2. Fewer Sellers: Come spring, more sellers will enter the market. During the winter, then umber of sellers on the market is limited. Based on 2018 statistics, Dave Ramsey estimates there’s 12% fewer listing during the winter months which means less competition!

3. Winter Buyers Mean Business: Buyers trudging around in the freezing winter or breaking away from their holiday schedule to look at you home are likely serious. Winter buyers often have a deadline, whether it’s an expiring lease, or contract on their home.

4. Time Off: While the holiday schedule can be hectic, many people also have more time off during the holidays. That means more time for browsing their favorite home apps and scheduling home showings.

5. Getting Tax Breaks Before the End of the Year: Some winter home buyers are motivated to capture the tax benefits of buyer a home before the end of the year. This may include tax deductions such as mortgage interest, private mortgage insurance premiums, and real estate taxes. Investors may be motivated to close before the end of the year to replace a property that recently sold.

Tips for Selling in the Winter:

1. Keep it Simple: If your selling around a holiday and have decorations up, make sure they accent a room. Less is more.

2. Crank up the Cozy: Light a fire in the hearth, play soft holiday music in the background, and prepare fresh baked cookies or cider for the guests.

3. Shine a Light Outside: December days get dark earlier. Brighten your home’s exterior with outdoor spotlights, including the area where agents and buyers are accessing the lock box and entry door.

4. Avoid Winter Wonderland: Buyers want to see details of the house, not a blanket of snow. Make sure you have clear-weather photos of your house.

Call me to talk about the reasons to sell your home this winter!

Check out these tips on how to clean your house in the winter!

Source: RE/MAX Advanced Advanced Notice