According to the Columbus Dispatch, homes can be sold around the holidays despite the inherent challenges. The hard numbers from the National Association of Realtors say that about one-third fewer homes are sold in the months of November through February compared to the peak season of May through August. It’s even tougher to move property in the Northeast and Midwest. Sales prices usually take a hit as well as homes listed in the Columbus area from late November through January sell for about $3,000 less than the average price, according to Zillow. But there are opportunities as well.
“There are really two schools of thought,” Wightman said. “A lot of people in the textbooks suggest waiting until spring to put a house on the market. And it’s true that if you wait until spring there is more buyer activity and you’re more likely to get into competitive bidding. But never assume you can’t sell a house this time of year.
“There’s also the other side of the coin. Sure, it’s not as convenient for sellers to open their house during the holidays and have people tracking in the bad weather. But the buyers out looking for houses now are serious — and I underscore ‘serious.’ “So you might have fewer showings during the holidays, but more meaningful showings.”
Greg Hart of HER Realtors in Hilliard said he has many clients who want to wait to sell until warmer weather, but he doesn’t see it as a make-or-break decision. “I really don’t think many people choose to list their home during the holidays unless circumstances require it,” Hart said. “Spring and summer are a great time to sell, and it’s usually more convenient. But when you have a (booming) economy like ours, you’re going to do well regardless of when you sell.
“Also, there’s much less competition this time of year, so you’re going to stand out like a sore thumb. Will you have fewer showings? Absolutely. But you will see more serious buyers, too.
