Selling Your Home During Holiday

Most people probably think that putting a home on the market during the holidays is a bad idea. After all, it’s a busy time to year and there are plenty of other things to think about besides an imminent home sale. Add potentially inclement weather to these concerns, and it can really seem daunting.

But there are actually quite a few advantages to selling a home during the winter holiday season. The holidays tend to be a festive, beautiful time of year. And buyers who are out pounding the pavement in search of a new home are probably pretty motivated if they’re making time to do so during such a busy season.

Here are a few ways you can capitalize on the season when putting your house on the market:

Decorate (but Tastefully). It’s important to remember that it’s easy to go overboard when decorating for the holidays. But while a larger-than-life, light-up plastic Santa figure in the front yard might not be to everyone’s taste, subdued lighting and subtle greenery have lots of charm. You may not need to do much beyond the quintessential New England holiday tradition of placing a single, lighted candle in each window of your house.

Don’t Forget the Scents and Sounds. Cinnamon, pine, pumpkin, and wood fires are scents that evoke memories of holidays and family. Use scented candles judiciously to avoid an “artificial” smell. Opt for fresh greenery and the aroma of baking cookies if you can during showings. And no need to blare Christmas carols – subtle chimes and bells are pleasing sounds of the season.

Keep It Clean. Not only will prospective buyers appreciate your efforts, but any guest in your home will benefit from additional boot racks or rugs dedicated to stowing dirty shoes and boots. Make sure that any dirt and salt that gets tracked inside gets cleaned up regularly. And be sure to keep on top of shoveling the driveway, sidewalks, walkways, and steps to make sure that it’s easy to get into your house. If you don’t usually use a plowing service, this might be the year to splurge and do so to save yourself the headache.

Understand Your Market. There is generally less inventory on the real estate market over the holidays than at peak times of the year, a fact that just might work to your advantage. Holiday buyers are also apt to be motivated – perhaps they must make a move quickly due to a change in a work or family situation. This may end up benefitting you; you’ll likely be in a good position to negotiate if an offer comes in.

Give Yourself a Break. Holidays are for family and celebrations, and there’s no reason that you should forfeit your holiday fun just because your house is on the market. Plan your festivities for times when prospective buyers are unlikely to request showings. Or celebrate the holidays at the home of friends or family this year to eliminate cleanup duty immediately following a big meal.

Your keys to selling your home during the holiday are the right attitude and a commitment to organization. With your real estate agent at your side with plenty of tips for seasonal selling, you might just be surprised by the gift of a quick and easy sale.

Would you like to find out more? Visit www.hansbrings.com for more information.