If you’ve thought about selling your home recently but assumed that you missed the Home Hunting Season – think again. While in the past, the Winter may not have been the best time to sell your home, there are actually a few BIG reasons why selling your home in the Winter is a WIN!
You only need one buyer to make the sale, and that buyer could be looking during the Winter. Many people have less going on during the colder months than they do during Spring, Summer, and Fall when people try to monopolize on the nice weather, Summer vacations, etc.
Lower inventory means less competition. You thought about waiting until Spring to sell, so naturally many others will as well. Spring is the most popular home-selling season which means you’ll have a lot more competition for selling your home. In the winter, there are fewer homes for sale. That competition over low inventory can make winter an ideal time to sell your home.
Show the cozy side. During the Winter, you get a chance to show just how cozy, comfortable, or energy efficient your home is. Light the fireplace, showcase the hot tub, and highlight just how fabulous cooking holiday meals in your new kitchen is.
More space. When do people usually realize they need more space – when everyone is cooped up in the house. Once Winter sets in, recently expanded families may realize just how crowded their house is now that everyone is inside. This is an ideal time for parents to find a home that better suits their family’s needs.
They mean business. If buyers are house hunting in Winter, then they mean business. They are ready to buy. Passive buyers have no problem casually looking at homes during nicer weather when open houses are every weekend. But serious buyers know how frustrating house hunting during the cold and snowy weather can be, so they typically won’t waste their time or yours.
Work perks and relocation. Many people receive raises, promotions, and bonuses at the end of the year. These may also lead to them having to relocate. Listing your home during the Winter allows you to capitalize on those who are now in a good financial position to buy, have their down payment set, or need to move to a new city or town in the New Year.
To make the most out of selling your home this Winter, here are some quick tips to make your home more inviting:
- Turn up the lights. Make sure your home looks bright and inviting.
- Turn up the heat. Don’t freeze out potential buyers, make your home feel cozy and warm.
- Keep it clean. With everyone spending more time indoors and the windows closed, make sure your home looks and smells clean.
- Make it accessible. Keep the walks and driveways clear of ice and snow. If potential buyers will want to look at your deck, sheds, or patios – make sure they can access them.
At Litchfield Bancorp, we don’t believe there is a right or wrong season to buy a home – we help people year-round. If you have any questions, talk to one of our mortgage experts today!
Jennifer Ives-Groebl
Vice President, Senior Mortgage Lender
860-393-9145
NMLS MLO ID: 532621
