Have you been thinking about selling your home? Is your current property too large? Too small? Too expensive? Too hard to manage? Are you ready to travel more? Whatever the reason, if you’ve been thinking about a move but aren’t sure it’s the right time, it’s time to think again!
With the Holiday Season behind us, many sellers are concerned it could be too soon to list their homes. The truth is that January is a great time to sell. Often there are fewer homes on the market, which increases the opportunity for your home to be seen and sold.
Along with the resolutions to lose weight and exercise more, buyers often decide that now is the time to finally buy that new home. They are ready to start the year fresh and are serious about a home purchase.
Consider these points and ask yourself if it’s time to sell.
Low Inventory of Homes For Sale
With a lower inventory of homes for sale this time of year, each home gets more attention. Buyers are eagerly searching for new listings and it’s not uncommon for a seller to receive multiple offers the first week on the market. While we can’t guarantee every property will see this level of activity, it’s clear that with a small inventory, each home will have more showings and that results in more sales with better prices for sellers.
Interest Rates Are Still Low
Today’s home buyers are more informed and savvy than the buyers were just 5 years ago. The mortgage meltdown created a new awareness of how the quality of the loan can make a huge difference in the security of home ownership. Buyers are doing their homework and low interest rates are very attractive. Interest rates have been historically low for years now, however there is a new sense of urgency in buyers. With the election behind us, buyers are realizing now is the time to take advantage of these interest rates before it’s too late.
If you’re planning to list your home in 2017, these tips can help you sell quickly with the best possible price and terms. (for more on interest rates click here http://www.jasonbarrowrealty.com/2016/11/22/affect...)
- Price it Correctly
I can provide you with up-to-date market data. Price your home realistically. A new listing gets the most attention the first two weeks on the market; don’t waste this time by being over-priced.
- Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is the buyers’ first impression of the home. Make sure from the moment they arrive, they see a beautiful home waiting for them. Keep your entry way cleared of snow and ice.
- Decorate Carefully
Feel free to create a seasonal feel inside your home, but don’t go overboard. Go easy on the candles, not everyone enjoys strong scents and with the cooler months, we keep the windows closed, so don’t overwhelm your potential buyers.
- Keep Your Home a Comfortable Temperature
While higher heating bills are never fun, this is not the time to pinch pennies. Make sure your buyers are comfortable from the moment they enter the home, so they linger and feel cozy.
- Take Advantage of Marketing Techniques
I will give you a full array of marketing ideas and strategies. These include not only professional photography and video tours but Internet exposure and other online marketing. I will also arrange open houses. It’s important to utilize all these options to ensure the most exposure. (For more info on 3D open houses click here http://www.jasonbarrowrealty.com/2016/09/12/3d-ope...) - Keep Your Home “Show Ready” at All Times
Most importantly, have your home ready to show at all times. Remove excess furniture and clutter and keep it tidy for buyers to view.
The Holiday selling season is behind us and the New Year has arrived. Kennewick, WA home sellers can enhance their ability to capitalize on the slower pace and smaller inventory by preparing their home for this special time of year.
Embrace the change in weather and offer buyers a cozy and warm home to consider. A few minor changes can make a drab, cold home something that’s appealing and that will attract solid offers.
