Finding the Right Listing Agent: Your First Step
The first thing you will do as a seller is to find a good real estate agent. The agent you select should be someone you trust, you have the confidence to ask questions and can give you the answers and services you need.
Your listing agent should know your neighborhood and be readily able to speak with prospective buyers, the homeowners association, and the property taxes. Moreover, they should also discuss how they’re going to sell your home in a way that is in line with your desired sales price and time on the market.
Costs associated with selling your home
Buying costs can be high, typically the selling costs are closing costs, which include commissions, taxes, and fees. One of the biggest segments of your closing costs is real estate commission, which is usually 3 to 8 percent of the home’s sale price.
This means you will pay fees and taxes between 2% and 4% of the home’s sale price. Keep in mind that these costs will differ from state to state. Before listing their Platteville WI homes for sale, most sellers are making home repairs and improvements.
This can include staging, carpet cleaning, interior painting, landscaping, and other general repairs. The more inventory there is where you live, the more demand there will be. A greater demand can cause a greater sales price for Lancaster, WI homes for sale.
Timing Your Home Sale: When to List?
The ‘right’ time to list your home will attract more buyers, sell your home faster and could even see you receive a higher sale price. According to a survey from the year 2022, the highest period for transferring ownership of a house typically occurs during the seasons of warmth and spring.
In particular, May, June, July, and August are perfect. During these months, homes tend to sell faster and for more money than in the winter months. On the other hand, the winter months of December, January, and February tend to be the worst time to sell a house.
So what about the fall? The fall market – mid September in particular is a far better time to list than July or August when everyone is out of town on vacations. Does this mean you may need to wait a few months to list your home? No!
Why are spring and summer popular?
The warmer and more pleasant weather can make it easier for buyers to attend open houses and viewings. Additionally, families with children may be more likely to move during the summer months when school is out of session.
Sunnier, warmer periods also often see greater domestic exchanges, primarily because the quantity of purchasable dwellings generally increases. Many sellers wait until the warmer months to list their homes, so buyers have more options to choose from, creating more competition among buyers.
The benefits of listing in late winter
Lower inventory is a significant advantage of listing in late winter. Many homeowners wait until well into spring and summer to list their Platteville, WI, homes for sale, which means there is less competition in the market during late winter. This potentially leads to higher demand for properties and multiple offers, resulting in a faster sale and a higher selling price.
Buyers looking for homes in late winter are typically serious and motivated to make a purchase. Individuals could have failed to acquire residences during more active times or desired to relocate swiftly owing to employment shifts or other personal alterations. With less inventory and more motivated buyers, sellers may be able to set a higher asking price.
Although some regions can have harsh winters, the worst weather is usually over by late winter, making it easier for buyers to view homes without snow or ice. With spring on the way, you’ll soon have the added benefit of flowers in your yard to boost curb appeal, too!
Factors that influence when to sell
Spring and summer are ideal for selling, with increased buyer demand and homes selling quickly, particularly in May. November is generally the worst month to sell due to decreased buyer activity and holiday distractions. Listing during a seller’s market can lead to quicker sales and higher prices due to low inventory.
Lower mortgage rates can stimulate buyer interest, enhancing sales potential. Personal circumstances, such as the urgency to move due to job changes, can supersede the typical best timing for selling.
Seasonal Considerations for Selling
When reflecting upon the optimal times of year to liquidate your abode, you will observe that spring and summer usually present the most positive circumstances. In particular, May stands out as the peak month for sales, with homes often fetching higher prices and selling quickly.
However, it’s also worth noting that winter can attract motivated buyers, leading to competitive offers despite the colder weather. As the time frame transitions from spring to summer, selling your house can remain beneficial. This is especially true for households eager to settle into a home before schools in the area start the new year.
Summer can be one of the best seasons to market your Lancaster, WI, real estate, as longer daylight hours provide more opportunities for open houses and showings. Home buyers, particularly those with children, often want to finalize their move during this time, making them more motivated and decisive.
Furthermore, should your real estate contain attractive exterior areas, the hotter season might represent the ideal moment to exhibit those regions. Despite these benefits, summer can also bring challenges. Many households go on vacation during this season, which might reduce foot traffic at open houses compared to spring.
Fall and Winter Selling Strategies
Depending on your circumstances, fall can still be an excellent time to sell your house, especially if you’re looking to attract serious buyers. Those who continue house hunting after summer tend to be motivated and ready to make quicker offers as winter approaches.
During this season, you’ll face less competition, as fewer homes are on the market compared to peak times. Still, be mindful of the changing weather that comes with fall. Selling a house in winter can be a unique challenge, but there are still some distinct opportunities.
While you’ll likely encounter fewer buyers during this season, those who are searching are often motivated buyers. Many of them have pressing reasons to move, such as job transfers or relocations, which can lead to quicker sales.
How can you make your home shine in any season?
Clean up the outdoors by power washing dirt deposits off your driveway, walkway, and siding. Shape your bushes and trees with a clipper, and pick up any debris storms have left behind. Prepare your landscaping by filling in bare patches and adding brightly colored flowers.
If selling in the fall, keep the lawn mowed and add some autumn flowers in seasonal colors. For winter sales, keep snow cleared and use ice melt to prevent accidents. Add pine garlands and holly berries to make a winter home look cozier even after the holidays.
Consider replacing small things like knobs, drawer pulls, and bathroom hardware. Spring for a fresh coat of paint if your old paint job is peeling. Incorporate cozy touches like artificial candles and neatly folded throw blankets to help viewers imagine themselves living there.
Conclusion
The best time to sell your home depends on various factors, including your local market, personal circumstances, and the condition of your property. While spring and summer generally offer the most favorable conditions, selling during off-peak seasons can also have unique advantages. If you’re considering selling your Platteville, WI real estate or looking for Lancaster, WI homes for sale, contact Fishnick Realty for professional guidance tailored to your specific needs.
