Question:  When is the best time to list my house?  Should I wait until spring?

    Signed:  Still shoveling

 Answer:  Dear Shoveling,

     I often hear both buyers and sellers say that houses don’t sell in the winter.  While the activity does tend to slow down this time of year, it is actually because of the holidays and not the season itself.  In November and December, people are busy with holiday activities, decorating, family visits, parties and don’t want to have to deal with either looking at homes or preparing their home to show.   

   A few sellers will ask to withdraw their house from the market in the winter thinking that there are no buyers around and that their house does not show as well this time of year.  In the spring, a lot of homes come on the market, and by waiting till this time, you only increase your competition.  Why not be one of the few houses available instead of one of many?  Winter can’t be any worse than mud season!

Our “spring market” actually starts in February and March because buyers need to get busy if they are going to be able to close on a house and move in the spring.  This year a home has to be under contract by April 30^th to qualify for the tax credit.  Don’t forget, it only takes one buyer and if your house is not on the market, it will not sell, so the bottom line to your question is – talk to your Realtor and don’t wait to list your house.

Kathy Sollien

Broker/Owner