While real estate never rests, it's important to know the best times to sell a house. Real estate agents and brokers are constantly watching market trends and metrics like median sales price throughout the year to time their sales perfectly. Seasonal factors can have a significant effect, as do other local and economic conditions.
So, how do you know the best time to sell? Here are some tips for timing a home sale:
How much difference can a well-timed sale make?
Timing your home sale can make a difference of up to 10% in total sale price. This means choosing the right time can help you get a higher asking price, while slower months might force you to choose lower offers.
The best time to sell a house in your market
The best seasons for selling can vary by location, but typically the spring and summer months are the best for house selling. It's most common to put your home on the real estate market during June or July.
Worst times to sell
There are multiple factors that can determine the "worst" time to sell. Often, the weather has a significant impact. Even in regions with mild winters, buyers are less likely to actively home search in colder seasons.
Another factor is competition and activity in your local market. While this can change every year, working with a real estate agent to track and predict market trends will help you sell even if conditions aren't perfect.
Selling during winter months
Winter, especially during the holiday season, is a very slow time to sell homes. Cold weather and holiday travel keep potential buyers busy. However, if somebody is considering buying a home in the upcoming spring, they may be browsing listings online from the warmth of their own home. This is one scenario when a "coming soon" listing can give you a competitive edge.
Timing home sales carefully can mean a quicker sale and a higher price, especially if you work with a real estate professional. While the world of real estate is constantly moving and changing, you can keep these guidelines in mind for finding the best time to sell.
About the Author
Jodie Franklin
I love helping people find their dream home or sell their house in order to achieve their next goals. I have been working hard for my clients for over 18 years throughout southeast Michigan. I have experienced every kind of transaction there is.
Helping my community and being involved is extremely important to me. I am Past President of the Michigan Ability Partners board, which helps Veterans and people with disabilities reach independent, self-supported, and satisfying lives. I have also been a member of the City of Milan Tax Review Board and Zoning Board, and involved in Milan Main Street. I have been a major sponsor of events for Michigan Ability Partners, Aid in Milan, Milan Main Street, and many more organizations that work to make our communities better.
I was 2018 President of the Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors, Realtor of the year in 2016 for AAABOR and nominee for Michigan Realtor of the Year. I serve on many committees with the local board, state board and was a member of the Housing Opportunity Committee for the National Association of Realtors (2018-19). I am currently serving my second term as a Michigan Realtors Board of Directors.
I have liked in Milan for over 20 years and enjoy living here with my husband Cliff, son Evan, and dog Rosie.