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List and Sell More Homes During the Holidays

There is a misconception in the real estate business that selling your home during the holidays is a bad idea-—people aren’t focused on house hunting, the weather is likely a challenge, everyone is traveling. But the reality is, according to a study by Redfin, winter listings have a 9 percentage point greater likelihood of selling, sell a week faster, and sell for 1.2 percentage points more relative to list price than homes listed in any other season. As REALTORS®, serving the consumer often comes in the form of educating them on the reality of market conditions and managing expectations. Often, after a little information, they are compelled to list their home. Keep these talking points in mind as you approach potential clients this season.  

 
Even with current market conditions favorable for sellers, selling a home during the holidays gives seller an advantage of a little less competition. It is true that many buyers do drop off during this time of year but the buyers who do not are more motivated and often want to get into a home quickly.  

On average, the buyers you encounter during the holidays will be more mature, snowbirds and retirees, with more buying power than first time home buyers. These buyers know what they want and it takes fewer showings to get an offer.  

An anticipated rise in mortgage rates is another reason why it may be advantageous to list your home this winter. According to Redfin economist Ellen Haberle, “The Federal Reserve has signaled that it plans to start reining in its stimulus program ‘in the coming months,’ which will push mortgage rates up. For many buyers, this expected policy change is motivation to strap on their boots and find the right home before rates increase, regardless of the cold weather.”  

As the supply chain recovers from the pandemic and building resources become more available and affordable, the increase in new construction and inventory will likely affect existing home prices.  

Focusing on family and celebrating during the holidays is a wonderful gift, but not everyone has the luxury of being able to put off buying or selling a home. By continuing to pursue listings, you can put your potential clients mind at ease that they are not selling at a “bad time” and there are real advantages to holiday home sales, while also growing your late 4th and early 1st quarter business.