The holiday season is often considered a time for relaxation, celebration, and spending quality time with loved ones. It’s a time when many people put their regular routines on hold and shift their focus to festivities and traditions. For those who are trying to sell their homes, this time of year can pose a dilemma: Should you take your house off the market for the holidays or keep it listed? In this blog post, we’ll explore why it might be a mistake to remove your home from the market during the holiday season.
Reason #1: If it isn’t listed, it won’t sell.
The first and most obvious reason you shouldn’t take you home off the market for the holiday season is because if it isn’t listed, it won’t sell. If you are truly interested in selling your property, leave it out there so the right buyer can find it at the right time. You don’t want to miss a buyer simply because you didn’t think anyone would be looking at houses over the holiday season.
Reason #2: More time off work means more time to search for homes.
While it’s true that people may be busy with holiday commitments, it’s also true that people have more time off work during the holiday season. When do people get online to look at homes for sale? When do people start dreaming of a bigger, better house? When they have down time away from work! By keeping your home on the market, you can make sure your home is seen by potential buyers when their minds are freed up to think about it.
Reason #3: Online searches don’t take holidays.
In today’s digital age, most homebuyers begin their search online. Websites and apps that list homes for sale are available 24/7, 365 days a year. If your home is taken off the market during the holidays, you miss the opportunity to reach potential buyers who are actively searching online. Don’t underestimate the power of online listings during this time; serious buyers will continue their search regardless of the season.
Reason #4: Serious buyers are still active.
Contrary to popular belief, the holiday season does not deter serious homebuyers. In fact, those actively searching for a new home during this time are often highly motivated. Whether it’s due to a job relocation or a growing family, some buyers have an urgent need to purchase a home, even during the holidays. I have had clients call me to purchase a larger home on December 26th, committed to never having THAT many people in a small house ever again. By keeping your house on the market, you ensure that you don’t miss out on these motivated buyers.
Reason #5: Less Competition
Many sellers decide to take their homes off the market during the holidays, thinking it’s a slow season. This creates a unique opportunity for you. With fewer houses available, your property may stand out more and attract serious attention from buyers. Reduced competition can lead to quicker sales and possibly even better offers.
Reason #6: There are end-of-year relocation opportunities.
Many companies and organizations use the end of the year to finalize relocations and transfers. This means there could be an influx of out-of-town buyers looking for homes in your area. By leaving your house on the market, you open the door to these potential buyers who may be searching for a new home urgently.
Reason #7: There are buyers wanting a fresh start in a new place for the new year.
The end of the year often marks a time when people are considering significant life changes, including relocating for a new career or to be closer to friends and family. These motivated buyers might be searching for their new home during the holidays. By keeping your house on the market, you increase the chances of attracting these individuals who want to make a move early in the upcoming year.
Reason #8: Vacation Homes Make Great Christmas Gifts
I know what you’re thinking. Who gives a vacation home as a Christmas gift? It hasn’t happened to me but it has happened! Imagine waking up on Christmas morning and unwrapping the keys to that lake house you’ve always wanted! If you take your property off the market for the holidays, someone could be missing out on the Christmas of their dreams.
While it’s natural to want to take a break from the stress of selling a home during the holiday season, doing so isn’t in your best interest. The advantages of keeping your house on the market during this time outweigh the drawbacks. With fewer competing listings and motivated buyers, marketing your home during the holidays is the right decision. Don’t automatically assume that the holidays are a bad time to sell – they might just be the perfect time for the right buyer to discover and fall in love with your property.
Want to talk more about this? Thinking of listing your house even though the holiday season is around the corner? Text or Call me, Jill Bell, at 479.799.3023 to start the conversation. I would love to help you out!
