The 2020 housing market is starting to get busy. More and more homes in Algonquin, Huntley, Lake in the Hills and Crystal Lake are starting to pop up for sale. Many home sellers I'm talking to personally are getting ready to sell...
But why sell now, in the middle of January? You’ve probably heard, "wait for spring or summer to sell your home. That's when there’s a bigger pool of buyers, and your landscaping and exterior is lookin' good"... right?
While that is true, you may want to think about getting a head start BEFORE the spring market comes into full swing.
Here are the top 4 reasons to sell your home in the winter.
1. Less Competition
There’s typically lower inventory of homes for sale in January and February. The basic economics of supply and demand now work for you, the seller. When there are a ton of properties for sale, even a great home can look common. But when there are fewer options on the market and a listing is in good condition, it suddenly gains an edge it may not have in the summer.
2. More Serious Buyers
People who are buying in the off-season are not your typical "tire-kickers." These buyers are often more serious and motivated to make a move — and do it quickly. And usually, they're pre approved and ready to go... Maybe they had a sudden career or lifestyle change. Whatever it is, they typically need a new home now. If yours is ready and waiting, it can have added appeal. (**Think about it - who in their right mind would go out in the middle of a Chicago winter to browse homes!?)
3. Save Money on Exterior Improvements (Landscaping)
As crazy as this may sound - the same reason you should wait to list your home until spring, is the same reason you should act sooner!
Many will say to wait until the landscaping is green and foliage is in full bloom. But, it takes a lot of time & money to fix up your landscaping in the spring. The average spring cleanup for a single family home can cost anywhere from $500 - $2000 plus! Depending on the size of your home.
By listing your home in the winter, you can avoid all of that. When there's snow on the ground, buyers tend to focus more on the inside of the home vs the outside. Trust me, I've worked with 100's of buyers over the last few years, I've witnessed it myself!
4. Stress-Free Summers
The process of selling a home isn't fun, let's be honest. Who wants to spend all spring & summer packing, doing showings, and planning a move? Get it done before Memorial Day so you can move in and enjoy your summer!
If you have any questions about selling or buying a home, or would like to know how much equity you have in your home - shoot me a message at info@103realty.com, or 312.217.4398, or www.103realtysells.com/contact
Pat Kalamatas
103 Realty - Owner & Realtor