How to Attract Homebuyers during the Holidays

The holiday season tends to be the slowest in terms of real estate activity during the year, but this year may be the exception. Pandemic shutdowns in the spring created pent-up demand that continues to impact the market as we move into the colder months.  Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of Realtors® agrees that this winter is predicted to be a sellers market: “Normally buyers have a slight edge as homes sit on the market for a longer period. It’s likely to be different this year.”

Putting your house on the market during the holiday season might not seem ideal, but it could prove to be advantageous depending on how you position your home. Here are some tips for staging your home to sell during the holidays:

1) Temper the Holiday Décor: While special decorations can give your home a little extra shine, too much can make your home look cluttered and distract buyers. More general winter decorations (as opposed to religious themes) will make everyone feel comfortable.

2) Check Your Real Estate Agent’s Availability: Around the holidays, you need an available agent who is on top of selling your home. You can search for a reliable listing expert at RE/MAX Alliance.

3) Target Motivated Buyers: People looking for a home during the holidays are usually on a deadline (relocating for a job, investors on tax deadlines, college students and staff, military personnel, etc.). Consult with your agent on how to get your listing in front of them.

4) Up the Curb Appeal: Without your landscape greenery, your home’s exterior needs to be at its best. At the top of the list: touch up paint, clean gutters, spruce up the yard and keep the walkway clear of snow and ice.

5) High Quality Home Photos/Video: Virtual Home tours are now the norm, and more buyers are starting their house hunt online. So the first impression of your home needs to be lots of flattering, high-quality photos (include summer or spring photos too). A video tour will help tremendously, as long as your home is in top shape inside as well.

6) Stage your home to give a comfy, warm, inviting feeling: On those extra cold days, buyers appreciate viewing or walking into a cozy home! Crank up the heat, and have homemade holiday treats baking in the oven to give off a pleasant smell. 

PLANNING TO SELL YOUR HOME? 

Check out tips on selling or contact an agent at your nearest RE/MAX Alliance office today!