‘Tis the Season – Top 10 Reasons to List During the Holidays

Posted by John Butzko on December 10, 2009

Homes decorated for the holidays add a special touch for homebuyers.

From November to January, folks are geared up for celebration, family gatherings and holiday cheer. While this time of year is well known for shopping and gifts, it is also a good time to have your home on the market—contrary to a common mindset.

It is no surprise to learn that homeowners believe that trying to sell their home during the holiday season is a difficult, challenging task. With all the rush and responsibility this time of year brings, why add another headache to the equation? In fact, many sellers take their home off the market during the holiday season, which reduces the competition in the real estate marketplace.

So, go ahead and decorate your home for celebration, and be sure to keep that For Sale sign standing tall. Here are the top 10 reasons why it is a good idea to keep your home listed during the holidays.

1. In All Seriousness – Everyone wants to be out enjoying the holiday season with celebration and friends. That’s why the potential buyers who are instead out looking for homes during November, December and January are serious buyers. Why pull your house off the market when a serious buyer may appear?

2. Eliminate the Competition – Mentioned above, many sellers take their home off the market during the holiday season. This gives serious home buyers fewer available listings to choose from, so your home has less competition.

3. Deck the Halls – This time of year, homeowners decorate, tidy up and pipe pleasant scents throughout their homes, which add warmth and special feelings. This all makes your home show better to potential buyers.

4. Time Off – Buyers have more time to look for a home during the holidays due vacations and shorter work weeks. This adds more showing opportunities for your home. This is also a great time for buyers to take a dual-purpose trip to include both house hunting and family visits without extra cost.

5. Incoming Traffic – January is traditionally the biggest month for corporate transfers, so you must have your home listed to capture that activity. Transferees can’t wait until spring to buy.

6. Show on Your Time – Throughout the holiday season, buyers will understand if you restrict showings during your personal family events. So, schedule open houses and showings around your schedule.

7. Plan for Your Future – With a contract in hand on your home, you’ll have a greater buying opportunity in the spring when more homes are on the market.

8. Sweet Emotions – Home buyers are more emotional during the holidays. When paired with your holiday decorations, buyers can feel more at home in your house.

9. The Taxman – Many people want to buy before the end of the year for tax reasons, especially now to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit for homebuyers.

10. Be in the Game – Your home definitely will not sell if it is not on the market.