Why selling your home in winter can really be a good time!
Once the clocks go back, the nights draw in and z list celebrities are switching on the Christmas lights in cities across the country! Many home owners put thoughts of selling on the back burner – yet savvy sellers might be missing a trick. Selling in winter can be a great opportunity and here’s why:-
Less Competition
Generally speaking there are fewer properties on the market at this time of year therefore it stands to reason that from a selling perspective there is less competition. Buyer demand will be focused on what is available- including your own home! If you wait until the New Year or spring, many sellers will have the same idea and your property may not stand out the same, especially if two or three others pop up for sale on your road!
Take advantage of peak internet traffic over the holiday period
Statistics from the leading property portal Rightmove show there is a huge spike in traffic to the site over the Christmas holiday period. People have more time and there is a lot of the “new year new home” mentality. If you are already on the market, you are showcasing your home to a larger audience.
Stronger prices
Given the shortage of properties on the market during winter months and the concentrated demand, chances are you will be able to negotiate a higher price for your property- we have actually just done this on a couple of properties recently where we have achieved way above what we honestly expected to achieve for the properties and this must in part be down to the lack of available stock. It is very much a case of “Hobson’s choice” for buyers.
Only the serious venture out
When it is cold, dark, damp and generally miserable outside and with so much else going on at this time of year- only seriously motivated buyers are out housing hunting! So whilst the numbers may be down, the quality is high – less potential carpet treaders to be trudging dirt into your home, raise expectation only to prove a real let down! Now surely that has to be a benefit to a serious seller?
Some homes are winter homes
Most property market experts will tell you a property looks at its best when the sun is shining and the garden is in full bloom and this is probably true of many properties. However does your property have exposed timber beams in the ceiling, an inglenook maybe and a beautiful open fire with crackling wood and glowing embers? What a gorgeous feel good ambience that will create and make a really memorable impression on a potential buyer.
It can work out cheaper to sell
Many estate agents will offer creative commission incentives at this time of year to entice sellers to the market early. Look out for these deals and take advantage!
Selling in the winter is not for everyone but there are obvious benefits to some. Definitely food for thought!
For more information on the market in Cheadle and Stockport please call me on 0161 428 3663
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