I just got a call from a Client who is taking her home off the market "for the holidays". Her house has been on the market for a little while, she had an offer that fell through and now she doesn't think it will sell until after the holidays. I wrote about this last year, but after this call, I thought I would write about it again.
So, should you list a home during the holidays? There are pros and cons, but my answer is always YES!! There are buyers out there who need a home…..and they're serious buyers. Plus, there is less inventory during this time, which means less competition.
The same rules apply for staging a home now…..you want prospective buyers to visualize themselves in your home. It's actually a great time to do that! Staged correctly, the home can look very warm and inviting.
Did you know that most buyers have already looked at your home on line before they come to see it? Did you know that it takes less then 30 seconds for a buyer to decide if they want to buy your house?
So, it's important that decorations are not over the top. I'll do another post about decorating, but here are some tips about setting the stage from last year:
- Switch out regular white light bulbs with amber-colored lights in the home for a rich, warm glow and feeling. Use seasonal items, such as poinsettias, evergreen branches and colored ribbons, but avoid displaying religious icons.
- Add velvet and silk to table tops for softness. By seeing smooth textures in the home, the brain registers the feeling of warmth and softness.
- Play gentle, well-known music without words. Music makes the buyer feel light and happy, and sets a positive mood.
- Simmer cider with orange slices and cinnamon and layout fresh-cut evergreen branches. Avoid using artificial sprays, however, because many people have reactions to the chemicals.
- And since the sense of smell contributes to the sense of taste, treat prospective buyers to chocolate chip cookies or cinnamon muffins taken out of the oven an hour before showing.
While it's a very busy time of year, you can have a house on the market and survive. Consider times that you might not want your home shown (during parties etc) and communicate that to your Realtor. And also talk to your Realtor about any concerns you have.
So, do you list now or wait?? Just remember that you can't sell your home if it's NOT on the market.
