Selling your home over the festive season

It’s hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner. For most of us, it’s the busiest time of the year, when there is often a mad rush to meet deadlines and get things completed before the holiday season begins.

Beat the rush

If you are thinking of selling your home, it’s better to get it on the market well before Christmas, if you can. By the second half of December you can expect the market to go a little quiet until late January when it tends to pick up again.

Use the holiday season to prepare

If you are considering selling, but are in no rush, now is the time to speak to a REIWA real estate agent. They’ll advise you on what you need to do to your property over the holiday period in order to attract the most attention from buyers when things pick up in the New Year. This might include things like painting, general maintenance or cleaning up the garden and pool. By using the holiday season to get your property primed, you’ll be able to maximise your asking price when you go to market.

Understand your marketing approach

If, due to circumstances, you need to put your house on the market at this time of year, or if you have not yet sold your home, you can expect a temporary slowdown. Your real estate agent can advise you on the best marketing strategy during this period, which may include a different approach to other times of the year. Some sellers will choose to delay the marketing of their property until things show signs of picking up, however, if you do decide to promote your home over the holiday season there can be some advantages. These include the fact that there is less competition and that those looking to buy at this time of year are generally more motivated. They have more time to view properties and are keen to lock in a deal quickly.

Potentially longer settlement times

If you have recently succeeded in selling your home you should allow a little extra time for settlement. Usually five weeks is enough between the contract of sale and the settlement date, but the holiday break may cause delays. Give yourself time to undertake things like building inspections and termite clearances. I recommend allowing around seven weeks for the settlement period at this time of year. The festive season is the perfect time of year to relax and spend time with family and friends, so it pays to be organised early so you can enjoy it.

 

Author: REIWA President Hayden Groves