"Timing is everything," so goes the adage. This holds particularly true in the real estate realm, where the right moment can make a significant difference to your bottom line. Deciding on the best time to sell a house involves consideration of several factors, including market trends, seasonal changes, and the state of your home. It’s also a good idea to look at data to understand when seller premiums are highest. Recent data shows that there is a potential to sell your home for thousands of dollars more in the spring and early summer than in the winter.
Analyzing the Prime Months to Sell
An examination of home sales data from 2011 to 2021 offers a detailed perspective of the best months to sell a house. Let's look at the median sales price, median Automated Valuation Model (AVM), and seller premiums for these years.
| Month | Median Sales Price | Median AVM | Seller Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| May | $208,273 | $185,000 | 12.6% |
| June | $217,703 | $196,702 | 10.7% |
| July | $219,900 | $200,000 | 10.0% |
| April | $202,000 | $185,000 | 9.2% |
| March | $197,500 | $181,283 | 8.9% |
| September | $215,000 | $199,214 | 7.9% |
| February | $188,500 | $174,666 | 7.9% |
| August | $215,700 | $200,000 | 7.9% |
| December | $213,564 | $201,000 | 6.3% |
| January | $187,000 | $176,040 | 6.2% |
| November | $213,300 | $201,000 | 6.1% |
| October | $210,375 | $200,000 | 5.2% |
Choosing the Right Season to Sell Your Property
The Merits of Autumn Home Sales
Selling your house during the fall could be a strategic move. There are fewer homes on the market during these months, translating to less competition. Buyers shopping at this time are often more serious, potentially speeding up the selling process.
Advantages of Winter Home Sales
Despite data suggesting the contrary, winter can be an excellent time to sell a house. Winter buyers are typically more serious, and there's often less competition. The winter months, especially around the busy holiday season, can lend your home a warm, inviting ambiance that attracts buyers. While data suggests that the median sales price is lowest between January and March, working with a savvy real estate agent like Ken Williams is the best way to ensure that you still get the most out of your investment and have a quick sale.
Reaping the Rewards of Spring Home Sales
The spring months, especially from late March to early June, are widely regarded as the best time to sell a home. With more daylight hours, warmer weather, and many families wishing to move before the new school year begins, homes listed in the spring attract many buyers and can often sell quickly.
Profiting from Summer Home Sales
The summer months, especially early summer, can also be a profitable time to sell a home. Many families are looking to settle into a new home before school starts in the fall. Additionally, the summer season often coincides with the peak of the local housing market, meaning you may receive a higher price for your property.
Timing the Market for Peak Conditions
Selling in a Market Filled with Buyers
In a buyer's market, there are more homes for sale than there are buyers, making it harder to sell a house quickly or at top dollar. However, if your home stands out in terms of price or features, this could be the right time to list.
Taking Advantage of a Seller's Market
Selling in a seller's market, when there are more buyers than homes for sale, often means a quick sale at a favorable price. Buyers may even engage in bidding wars, driving the selling price above your asking price. The peak of the local housing market often falls during the late spring and early summer, which could make it the best time to sell.
Benefit from Falling Mortgage Rates
When mortgage rates drop, more potential buyers can afford to enter the market. This increased buyer demand can lead to a higher sale price and a quicker home sale, making it an advantageous time to sell.
Knowing When to List Your Home
Lifestyle Changes Necessitate a Move
The best time to sell might be when your current home no longer suits your lifestyle. Whether your family is growing, you're retiring, or you're craving a new location, aligning the sale of your house with these life events can make the transition smoother.
After Completing Necessary Repairs
If you've finished all the repairs and upgrades on your home, it might be the right time to sell. Homes in tip-top shape attract more buyers and can command a higher price, especially in peak market conditions.
Financial Readiness for a Home Sale
The best time to sell is when you're in top financial shape. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the costs involved in a real estate transaction and have planned for your next housing step. You don't want to rush a sale due to financial constraints as it might prevent you from getting the most money from the sale.
Fast Facts about Selling Your Home:
- The condition of your home matters. Clean, clutter-free homes attract potential buyers and can add significantly to your profit.
- Pricing your home correctly from the outset can help you attract interested buyers and sell faster.
- Selling your home can disrupt your regular routine. Be prepared for this inconvenience to ensure a smoother selling process.
- Addressing repairs early is a wise move. Unfixed issues may cause buyers to overestimate repair costs, leading to lower offers.
- Overpriced homes may struggle to find the right buyer and inadvertently make neighboring properties appear more attractive.
- Post-inspection negotiations are common. Buyers may ask for concessions or price adjustments based on the inspection findings.
- Unpleasant odors can detract from your home's appeal. Ensure your home smells fresh and inviting during home tours.
- Offers from buyers with financing can be competitive, sometimes outperforming cash offers, especially if they're well-qualified and prepared.
- Well-maintained homes fetch higher prices. Buyers often pay a premium for homes that show evidence of regular upkeep.
About Ken Williams: Your Go-to Real Estate Expert
Ken Williams, a broker with John L. Scott Real Estate, a leading real estate firm in the Pacific Northwest, brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Washington real estate market, contact Ken Williams today. Regardless of the time of year, he can help ensure that you have a seamless real estate journey.
