Is Fall the Time To Sell?

Spring may be busy with planting and cleaning and putting a home on the

market. But Fall is a fabulous time to sell. With a few months before the major

holidays settle in, home buyers are eager to find and settle into their new home.

Especially before winter sets in. While families who want to close before the school

year begins are more likely to make their move in the spring, millennials, and

empty-nesters usually are more willing to jump into the fall real estate market.

Also, employers who need to relocate their workers often wait for the fall, when the

market tends to cool down. These out-of-towners will probably need to get through

the process quickly, too, which could mean a relatively speedy closing.

And with less competition as inventory typically is lower during the fall, that already

seller’s market gains more ground. With more buyers to choose from, the offers will

be more solid financially. And with less inventory, those buyers will be ready to

auction up the price a bit allowing the seller a bit more cash for Christmas. Fewer

homes to choose from on the market will mean that if your home is in good shape

you are likely to get your asking price met or surpassed.

The fall weather, not too cold and not too hot, is ideal for buyers to enjoy their house

hunt. Not having to walk around in heat and cold allows them to focus on your home

and enjoy the home buying process.

With the fall season in full color, sellers can use the magical setting to create a

welcoming autumn ambience. As the seasons change, maintenance is key. Rake the

leaves and keep the gutters cleaned out and the surrounding fall foliage frames your

home as “the one” for buyers. Stage some indoor autumn décor with orange and red

accent colors and fill the air with a seasonal candle or two to exude coziness.

With fewer homes available, the closing process typically proceeds a bit faster as

well. The need to purchase and get settled by the new homeowner speeds up the

process. And with banks having less mortgages to process, the home inspectors and

appraisers all fall in line as well to get the buying process done in a much timelier

fashion.

Moving in the fall is a much better choice than a freezing winter or sweltering

summer. Roads are free of ice and snow and the mild cool temperatures during fall

an allow new homeowners less sweat when moving. It’s also not the peak moving

season so moving costs are lower. To maximize savings, move mid-month and mid-

week when rates are lower.

Fall is a great time to sell. Less competition, more serious buyers and plenty of

autumn ambience to seal the deal. Get a realtor and relax this fall.