Thinking of Listing your home during the Holidays, but worried about the Housing Market? Don't stress! Yes, there are benefits to listing in the spring and summer, however putting your house on the market during the winter months can be just, if not more, beneficial! I spoke with The Bell Team's top listing agents to get their insight on what to expect during the Holidays, and here is what they had to say: 

1. Less Competition With Winter Housing Inventory: The Holiday season for real estate tends to be slower in comparison to other months of the year. This may sound negative, but could also be a huge point of leverage for listing your house. Not only will you have less houses to compete with, but winter buyers tend to be more serious about purchasing, resulting in quick sales time while staying close to your listing price. Even though there is opportunity to increase the asking price, it is also important to price your home just right in order to sell during the winter months. 

2. Tax-breaks: Taxes—the dreaded season following the holidays. This is a time when people begin to evaluate and consider buying property for a tax break. If buyers purchase a home during November and December they will qualify for several benefits such as home-purchasing deductions for points, interest, and property taxes. Tax breaks can be used as a huge incentive to buyers that seem to be on the fence about purchasing a home. Keep reminding them of the benefits of buying now vs next year!

3. Festive Decorations Make Your Home More Cozy: Buyers want to feel that emotional connection to a home when they see the house not only from the curb, but also when they step foot inside. Christmas decorations can enhance this feeling for your potential buyers resulting in a stronger connection to the home after a showing. Do not limit yourself to just the decor, try turning on the fireplace, using different holiday scents around the house, and even play holiday music during your showings and open houses! 

4. Curb Appeal: The Holidays are some of the busiest times for people to be driving around neighborhoods to check out the array of lights and decorations. Be sure to use this as an advantage when it comes to curb appeal. Curb appeal is one of the first things buyers see when they drive past your home, so it is important to make that connection with them as they inquire about your new listing. In winter your trees become more bare and your fresh green grass is no longer as vibrant. Be diligent about keeping weeds under control, leaves raked away, and making sure your yard doesn’t look neglected. This is also an opportunity to enhance your curb appeal with holiday decorations to really enhance that cozy warm feeling of the Holidays. 

5. Arranging Showings: Do not let the stress of finding times to show your home steer you away from listing. Your Holiday calendar may already be completely booked, but The Bell Team works diligently for you to make sure none of your showings interfere with the time you have scheduled with your family and friends. We strive to make you the center of our communication and will make sure you are happy and your home gets sold!  

All in all listing during The Holidays can feel hectic and overwhelming, however listing your home with The Bell Team, can and will, alleviate those stress factors! We know the industry, and use all of these advantages during the Holidays. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the Holidays with your family, all while getting your house sold by The New Year!