When it comes to the real estate market, autumn typically signifies the beginning of the “off season” for selling homes. With the onset of cooler weather, fewer buyers are looking, and fewer sellers are listing. Some people even suggest it’s better to wait to list your home until spring and summer when more people will be on the hunt. However, if you approach it methodically, there are several surprising benefits to selling a home in the fall. Let’s explore some of the possibilities.
Less Competition
One thing about fewer homes being listed for sale is that buyers have fewer homes vying for their attention — which means you have less competition. Use this dynamic to your advantage. When you price your home appropriately and stage it attractively, you can more easily connect with the right buyers because there is less to distract them.
Motivated Buyers
While there are admittedly fewer buyers looking this time of year, the fact that they are looking during the so-called “off season” means those buyers are usually more committed and motivated. When someone comes to view your home in the fall or winter, it’s a good bet they are serious and not just mildly interested. Again, use this to your advantage. Make your home as attractive as possible, and you should have no problem getting a decent offer from the right buyer.
Comfortable Weather
Here in Atlanta, especially, there are more comfortable days during fall than in the hot, humid summers. Even in the dead of winter, we have a larger number of comfortable “shopping days” than our neighbors to the north. A crisp or comfortable fall day often entices buyers out to look, puts them in a better mood overall, and makes them more likely to make an offer when they find a good fit.
Quicker Closing Times
When the real estate market is not as busy, neither are the mortgage companies. When your buyer does make an offer, the lenders are less likely in the fall to be bogged down and can process loans more quickly. You’re more likely to close in a shorter window of time, with fewer chances of delays.
Tips for Making the Most of the Fall
If you’re thinking to list your home for sale in the fall, here are a few quick tips to improve your chances of a quicker sale:
- Stage your home attractively. Use seasonal decorations when appropriate; keep the outside clean and free of debris.
- Make the home inviting. Keep the thermostat at 70 or above on colder days. Let in as much natural light as possible. If you have a gas fireplace, keep it on during viewings.
- Price your home correctly. During the fall and winter months, buyers are often looking for a good deal, so they are less forgiving when a home is priced too ambitiously. You don’t need to low-ball yourself, but work with an experienced agent to make sure your home is priced at least at fair market value to avoid delays in selling.
By playing it smart and planning ahead, there’s no reason the “off season” has to hinder you from selling your home quickly and for a fair price. To learn more about selling your home in fall, call Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 404.948.4812.