Are the Early Months of the Year a Good Time to Put your House on the Market?

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The holidays are over. And it is maybe about time to rethink that plan of yours to sell your home which was put on hold for quite some time due to the recent holiday rush. Before you make a move, a decision must be made. And it should be based on your readiness to sell and the timeliness of your current situation. It is not enough that you are in the mood to make the sale, you must figure out if January and February, the end of Atlanta’s cool season is a really good times for you to sell. 

The beginning of the year could be the perfect time to market your home. Or maybe not. The fact is, there really is no right or wrong answer. Maybe selling today is best for you, but not for others, or vice versa. The ideal timing to sell your home really depends on your personal circumstances, the condition of the local market, and your selling objectives.

But what can we expect when we decide to sell our houses early in the year?

If you are thinking about getting a fresh start this new year with a new home, it is essential to get a clear idea of what to anticipate during this early period.

Less Competition

Statistically, there are fewer houses listed in the market during the cool season, which includes the months of January and February, because of seasonal changes. The weather plays a factor in the cold months. As the weather gets cold, the housing market cools down too. Most sellers would prefer to sell their houses 

It is also the end of the holiday rush, so most sellers would prefer to take a post-holiday rest. This decrease in inventory translates into lesser competition in the market giving your home a better chance to stand out. 

Motivated Buyers

Due to the low number of properties for sale during this time of the year, most homebuyers are willing to see all available homes that match their criteria. These buyers are willing to brave the cold and want to move soon. They are more serious about making a purchase and are ready to make an offer. Many of these early buyers are looking for replacement homes before they list their own homes in the market. Recent data shows many homebuyers were already off to the real estate race during the first couple of months of the year.

Increase in Job Relocation

Many companies tend to make personnel changes and job transfers at the beginning of the year. Job relocation brings serious buyers who need to be relocated as soon as possible. These relocated employees are looking to get their lives back on track before they begin the year in their new job location. And these are great buyers because their priority is to get settled immediately. Additionally, many companies provide relocation assistance to their employees resulting in easier negotiation and an agreed price closer to your asking price.

The Cold Season Adds Appeal to your Home

The season shines a spotlight on property features. Most states have mild weather all year round but some experience prolonged summer or winter seasons. The cool season in Atlanta, Georgia can last between two or three months from late November to late February, having January as the coldest month. Homes built with features to accommodate the season can be more appealing to buyers. Homes in Atlanta with a cozy vibe during the cold season are most likely to top the options of January home buyers. Features to cold-proof homes invite buyers to see themselves living in them during perhaps one of the most unpleasant seasons of the year.

January and February Home Sales Can Get You The Best Price

Since fewer properties are listed in the market during the early months of the year, your potential buyers have fewer options. Low levels of housing inventory are likely to increase your home price more than you typically do in spring. If your home is staged well and priced competitively, buyers are less likely to negotiate the price down.

You Will Get More Attention From Your Real Estate Agent

Due to the low inventory of homes in the market, the first couple of months of the year are considered a slow season for all parties involved in a real estate transaction, especially for real estate agents. Fewer clients mean they can focus on dealing with all their transactions. It gives your home the best chance of being showcased in the best way and eventually being sold faster.

Summing up our expectations for the months of January and February, it is a good time to profit as a home seller. These months attract motivated buyers such as relocated employees who need to move very soon. Because of the cold weather, there is lower housing inventory during these months as compared to the peak season, which translates to less competition. Also, the beauty of the cold season gives you an advantage with your home’s curb appeal. And if your home is staged well and priced competitively, buyers are less likely to negotiate the price down during these early times of the year because they do not have many options. Most importantly, with fewer people looking at homes in cold weather, you can expect the undivided attention of your real estate agent.

A successful home sale is all about timing, research, and preparedness. Before you put your house on the market, knowing the factors that may affect your goal when you sell is essential. January and February may not be the best months to sell for some sellers due to the season but not for everyone. It can be YOUR month. But again, the best time to sell depends on the market condition, your situation, and your selling objective. Consult your real estate agent today and make a plan ahead. A well-prepared seller often gets more bang for their buck.

Learn if January and/or February is the right time for you to sell your home in Atlanta. Contact us to book a free appraisal today and catch the first wave of home buyers! 

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