THE EXPERT – Jonesboro Right Now – The holiday season brings busy schedules, family gatherings, travel, and plenty of decorating. For homeowners considering selling, it can also bring an important question: Is it better to list now or wait until spring?
While the real estate market often slows during the holidays, the season can present opportunities for sellers. Amanda Hood, a real estate agent with Image Realty, answers common questions about selling during this time of year and offers advice for preparing a home, managing showings, and deciding when to list.
What are some advantages of listing a home during the holiday season that sellers might not realize?
One of the biggest advantages is less competition, which means more eyes on your home!
The market does tend to slow down during the holidays, and inventory is typically lower during those months. But as a seller, you can use this to your advantage! Less inventory means more opportunity for your home to stand out in the crowd!
Some buyers have deadlines! Job transfers, lease expirations, and family changes don’t stop for the holidays. There are always buyers looking to buy in every season!
How should homeowners approach decorating for the holidays when their home is on the market?
Decorate for the holidays! Just let the home be the main focus!
Buyers should notice the beautiful fireplace, spacious living room, and all the natural lighting before they notice your decorations. Choose a tree that leaves room to walk comfortably and doesn’t crowd furniture. Greenery on the mantel can draw attention to the fireplace without hiding it.
Go easy on the scents! Steer clear of overly strong Christmas scents. Keep outdoor decor simple! A wreath on the door with warm white lighting creates a welcoming vibe.
You want cozy and welcoming, but you also want buyers to picture their own holidays there, too.
What are your biggest tips for preparing a home for showings during the fall and winter months?
Walk through your home as if you’re the buyer, from the driveway to the back door. Notice what feels dark, crowded, chilly, or neglected, and start there.
Clear leaves from porches and steps, keep gutters clean, and add doormats for wet shoes! Make it bright, comfortable, and easy to walk into.
With holiday gatherings, travel, and busy schedules, how can sellers make the showing process easier?
Be flexible! You don’t have to put your entire holiday schedule on hold but have the expectation that you will have to accommodate showings.
Have a plan in place for when showings occur. Focus on clearing counters, making beds, cleaning bathrooms, turning lights on, and tucking clutter away.
Plan for your pets! Have arrangements already made so you’re not scrambling when showing requests come through.
Block out important dates early on! Let your realtor know about gatherings, overnight guests, and travel so showings can work around them.
You can enjoy the holidays and still sell your home!
If someone is considering selling but isn’t sure whether to list now or wait until spring, what advice would you give them?
Don’t let the calendar make the decision for you.
Spring may bring more buyers, but also more competition. Look at your timeline, your home’s readiness, and talk with your realtor about what makes the most sense for you!
The best time to list is when your home and your plan are ready!
You don’t need the most buyers. You just need the right buyer. Holiday timing can create opportunity, especially when the price, presentation, and local competition line up!
Selling during the holidays may come with a few extra considerations, but with the right preparation, pricing, and guidance, homeowners can approach the process with confidence.
For more information about buying or selling a home in Northeast Arkansas, visit Image Realty’s website, or contact them by calling 870-236-2121 or emailing office@imagerealty.net.