SELL NOW OR WAIT FOR SPRING?

When the holiday visitors go home and the Christmas decorations come down, you may be wondering if you should put off selling your home until spring.  Many homeowners feel that the winter is not a good time to sell – have to keep the house heated, the walk clean of snow, etc.  But this year especially,  the sooner you put your home on the market the better.  Here are some of the reasons why:

The New Tax Legislation – is too vague, and for most people will not be a significant factor in buying right now.  But as details and the impact on each individual become clearer, it may be a deterrent for those in highly taxed states like New York and New Jersey.

There is Less Competition - the fewer number of comparable homes for sale, the greater the likelihood that a buyer will look at your home.  Less homes on the market increases the probability for showings, and also increases the probability of a good offer.

The Winter Buyer is a Serious Buyer – just like the winter seller!  Serious, smart buyers continue to look at homes, no matter what time of year.  For resort areas like our North Fork, they also  know that they can get their financing and be in the house and enjoy the entire summer season, with enough time to paint or do minor renovations.

Mortgage Rates Tend to Be Lower – just like pricing, there is an element of supply and demand.  Also, with a lower volume of transactions, bank processing is likely to move faster than in the summer.

            

So don’t take that long winter nap!  Get busy, and while you’re putting away your holiday decorations look at little problem areas, where perhaps your home needs paint touchups, minor repairs, or sprucing up especially bedding.  January is traditionally the “white sale” month and stores usually offer lots of discounts.  Consider new pillows, duvets, shams and throw pillows.  When in doubt, go white for all the basics and then add a splash of color with the throw pillows.  Go through the house and “de-clutter.” Pack away special mementos and donate or discard things that you don’t use or need.

               

The market still has quite a bit of momentum, don’t wait for Spring to sell or buy.  I would be happy to meet with you and help you start the New Year by accomplishing an important life goal – to sell your home or buy a home here on the North Fork.  By the way, we’ll help you get the house ready to sell, when you list with us! Call us at 631 765 5333 or visit our office at the corner of Horton’s Lane and Main Road in Southold.  We serve the entire North Fork and have an extraordinary track record!

Happy 2018!