The Goose is Getting Fat Along With Your Wallet

The holidays are coming and the goose is getting fat, and you are wondering if now is a good time to remove your home from the market, or if sticking it out will pay off in the end.

The answer, according to most Realtors, is stick it out. The rewards far outweigh the benefits. For starters,  you could be walking into the New Year with a pocketful of cash, and your pick of the gorgeous homes coming back on the market without having to worry about selling yours first – what a deal!

Selling your home during the holidays has many advantages, but there are a few things you need to know before putting your home on the market during this time of year.

It’s important to remember that not everyone celebrates Christmas or Hanukah. Some don’t celebrate at all. Keeping that in mind, it’s important that you keep the decorations low key. Feel free to put a small tree up, but an eight foot tall tree adorned with every decoration you’ve ever purchased may make it difficult for a potential buyer to picture their furniture in the tree adorned room. Realtors agree that it’s important for a potential owner to be able to envision their own furniture in your home or they are less likely to buy. A simple garland over the door and a pinecone centerpiece will make your home festive without turning anyone away.

Secondly,remember that days are much shorter at this time of year; therefore making your home full of light and adding a hint of coziness will enhance the buyer’s experience. If you have a fireplace, by all means, light it. Make sure to leave a nice throw draped over the back of chairs and leave as many lights on as possible – without going overboard.

An inviting home smells good. Smell is one of the strongest human memories, so simmering hot cider on the stove or baking an apple pie will surely make an imprint on those touring your home during this season. For an added bonus, leave cups out and a plate of cookies for visitors to help themselves. Hopefully, they’ll feel so content in the kitchen space that they’ll want to stay and make an offer.

Statistically, buyers that are searching for a home between November 15 and January 1 are committed buyers. These are the executives preparing for a move after the holidays, or the newly transplanted in search of what will be their next home –many will be traveling over the holidays to test out various areas before settling in for good. This is particularly true of mid-year college graduates and other young folks looking for a place to call home.

Another interesting fact; buyers are much more amenable over the holidays making negotiations easier and more civilized.

So decorate, but lightly. Simmer the cider, turn on the lights, and invite folks in to tour your home.