When is the Right Time to Sell?

Most people prefer the spring or summer months to move. So the market can start heating up as early as February. Families with children are most likely to move during the summer vacation so they can be settled before the new school year starts. The market can still be busy into the fall. But traditionally November and December are usually the slow months mainly because of the holidays, but also, because most people do not like showing their houses in the winter months.

If you are one of the few people that may want to get a head start on the market and put your house up for sale in the winter, keep a few things in mind.

• Showing your house can be messy with people traipsing inside with their boots possibly covered with snow, mud and salt. And remember salt can damage your carpet and wood floors.

• The buyer will not be able to get a totally precise picture of the landscaping, if any. And sometimes beautiful yards help sell a home.

There might be the advantage of selling in the winter and having your home be one of the first houses listed and shown for the new-year, but most buyers rather to relocate in the warmer months.