Most Sellers assume that spring is the best time to sell their homes. I get asked the question every time I go on a listing appointed. The REAL answer to that question is that the best time to sell your home is WHEN YOU ARE READY. Every season has its advantages.
Statistically most homes come on the market during the second quarter (about 40%) followed by the fourth quarter (about 25%).
The first quarter, for example, is called the pre-season listing period. Inventory is extremely low and there are Buyers who could not find the right house during the last 2 quarters of the previous year. These homes, if priced correctly, sell quickly.
Most of our inventory comes on in the 2nd quarter, April through June. Good weather brings out the new buyers. We absolutely sell the most homes during this quarter BUT it is also the season where the homeowner finds themselves facing the most competing properties. The Buyers are just starting to look and sometimes it takes 2-3 months for them to make a decision. About 40% of our inventory comes to the market during the second quarter.
The third quarter is normally the quietest as kids are out of school and people are taking vacations. We still get a good number of listings coming on the market during this time but they tend to sit a bit longer before selling.
The fourth quarter Post Season is a surprisingly dynamic time. Buyers, who have been frustrated with the current inventory are eager to get settled before the holidays. They are hungry for new options. Homes decorated for the holidays feel warm and inviting. I, personally have several new listings coming “on line” in the next few weeks. As the second busiest listing period, about 25% of homes listed become active during this quarter.
There are 2 ‘DEADZONES” in the market. They usually happen between about August 20-Sept 15th and again from after Thanksgiving to Jan 1st. Otherwise, people buy houses every month of the year. The only other factor that influences buyer trends is the weather. When we have torrential rain, blizzards, or a macroburst Buyers stay home. Other than that, there is no BAD month to buy or sell. If that was not the case, I would be spending the winter in Florida.
The moral of this blog is that if you are ready, the market is ready for you