I get asked this question every holiday season, as clients gear up to move and just are not quite sure whether they will end up compromising in price because it isn’t “high” season in real estate. In this current market with very little inventory, there just doesn’t seem to be a bad time to list your home for sale. Given this ongoing condition we’ve been experiencing for the last several years, coupled with the fact that many do put listing their homes on hold until after the new year, as a seller, you may find yourself with absolutely no (or very little) competition during this period. Less competition means more exposure for you for those buyers who ARE out there looking to make a move before the end of the year. While you may find it could take a little longer to get that (or those) offer(s) as people tend to travel more, it could end up benefitting you as a seller.
Now, if you are planning on buying a home, my advice is to take advantage of the interest rates we see currently because we just don’t know how long they are going to last. While I don’t anticipate any pricing bubble to burst since we have climbed steadily for the last 5 years out of the abyss, I do expect that prices will likely level out once rates start to increase. That means that you will ultimately end up paying more for the same the home with the higher interest rate. That said, I don’t suggest you buy just anything in order to secure that rate. For reasons explained above, you will find yourself with just a handful of homes to look at during the holidays, so its important not to get discouraged. If you don’t find what you are looking for and you have time on your side, be patient and make sure you are working with a REALTOR® who will work diligently with you in your search, one who is responsive and who gets you to the “front of the line” when it comes to viewing properties and writing that offer.
If you are considering buying or selling, and would like some professional advice, please contact me at [email protected], or 619-44-2798. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I might be able to help you achieve your goals!