You’ve decided to sell your home but the holidays are fast approaching. Would it be better to put your sales plans off until after the gift-giving season? Not necessarily.
The Internet has opened a whole new aspect to the real estate industry, making it easier for people to buy and sell their homes. Internet listings make your home more accessible and available to more people in more locations, increasing the prospects of faster sales, even during “inopportune” times. It makes it easier for buyers to find what they’re looking for and jump at golden opportunities (like yours) to find the home they desire.
Holiday Listing: The Pros and Cons
Serious home buyers are just as intent on buying a new home during the holidays as they are any other time of year. They may even count on less people looking during this time, which increases the seller’s playing field. As a seller, you may experience less competition from other homeowners who feel holiday listing is a waste of time. This gives you a chance to showcase your property in such a way that makes it shine. If your property’s been on the market awhile, now’s a good time to consider a change of strategy or even lowering your price to attract the attention of interested buyers and nail the sale.
On the downside, holiday listing means you agree to open houses or home showings during what could be very busy or awkward times. If you’re not willing to risk a disruption in your holiday schedule, you may want to postpone your listing for a less hectic time. You either work your family dinners and parties around home showings or put off selling until the holidays are done.
Must-Do Home Prep for Rapid Sales
Most home buyers respond better to homes that are attractive, functional and in good repair. By preparing your home in advance, you improve your chances of successful sales. Here are some must-do repairs before putting your property on the market.
– Painting: Depending on the need, you may want to paint your whole home to give it the polished and refined look of a well-kept abode.
– Bug Inspection: Have your home professionally inspected for termites, bed bugs, cockroaches, and ants, and rectify any problems with bugs. Nothing turns a home buyer off quicker than the thought of insects and other pesky pests in a home. Proof of professional pest inspection will be to your advantage when showing your home.
– Repair or replace damaged windows and floors: Inspect your windows, and repair or replace worn wooden frames or cracked glass. Damaged floors should be replaced to enhance home appearance and reduce the risk of accidents and harm.
– Repair plumbing leaks: Stop simple leaks by replacing old and worn fixtures on your own. Call a professional plumber for extensive plumbing work that needs to get done.
By putting some thought and attention in preparing your home, you can increase your chances of success in achieving your sales goal—even during the holidays.
