Are We in a Sellers or a Buyers Market?

I’ve been telling you and showing you stats of how strong of a market we had the whole year. We’ve experienced high buyer demand, and low inventory of sellers willing to list. 

So the big question comes, has the market changed? Yes and no. It really depends on your location and what your price point is.

As a whole – yes, we have noticed a trend in the market slow down just prior to the government shutdown (about 60 days ago). Earlier in the year first time homebuyers accounted for 40 percent of the home sales, while now they make up only 28 percent.

So what does this mean for you as a seller? Didn’t you tell me in your last blog now is a great time to sell? Yes and it still is. We are entering more of a balanced market. What it really comes down to is your location, price, and level of condition – with great pictures and staging (as I mentioned in my home ready tips blog).

And if you were one of the buyers who walked away from the market – whether you were frustrated of getting out bid or the lack of inventory, we have the tools to find you the right home because it may not even be on the market yet.  

But don’t take our promises, our numbers prove it. So if you’re thinking of buying or selling, I would be happy to set up an appointment to discuss the market in your specific area of Northern VA, DC, or MD.

If you are looking for more information about the real estate market you can click here to view a great article  I found that describes the top 10 issues affecting real estate.

10 Reasons to List During the Holidays

Welcome back to my video blog. With the holiday season here, everyone wants to know whether now is the time to list their home or wait until the spring. The right time really depends on your situation. What are your needs?

Selling during the winter months is a great idea. In fact, I have 10 reasons why you can be confident that your home will sell if you list now.

1. People looking for a home during the Holiday season are usually serious buyers.

2. Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the Holidays. Less competition means more bargaining power for you!

3. Since the supply of listings will increase dramatically in January, your home will face more competition after the holidays which means less money for you!

4. Houses often show better when tastefully decorated for the Holidays.

5. Buyers are more emotional during the Holidays. They are more likely to pay your price!

6. Buyers have more time to look for a home during the Holidays than they do during the typical working time of year.

7. For tax reasons, some people must buy before the end of the year.

8. January is traditionally the month for employees to begin new jobs. Since they would prefer to buy now rather than wait until the spring, your home has first shot at these new buyers.

9. If your home sells during the Holidays we can provide a delayed closing and/or a post-settlement occupancy agreement to give you more time in the home if you need it.

10. By selling during the Holidays you are perfectly positioned to be a fully qualified buyer in Spring, when many more homes are on the market for less money. You actually can sell higher and buy lower by selling over the Holidays and buying in the Spring.

These are just  few good reasons to list your home during the holidays. You can download the 10 Reason to List During the Holidays here.

So if you are ready to sell or know anyone else looking to put their home on the market, give me a call. We’d love to help you sell your home this holiday season!

Thanks for watching!