Oh Come All Ye Faithful Sellers!

Oh Come all Ye Faithful Sellers!  The time is right for keeping your home on the market.  Although this may seem counterintuitive to many, the truth of the matter is that homes move well through the holiday season.

Last year, there were over 7,000 homes sold in Massachusetts between November 15 and December 31. House hunters searching for a home during the holiday season are often very serious buyers for a variety of reasons.

First of all, many executives are out searching for their new home during the holiday months. It is common for companies to move their top employees between the months of November and December, so these are motivated buyers.  Many want to have a home sale wrapped up by December 31 for the tax break as well. With the election behind us, no one knows what will happen with the new tax rates, so many are looking to buy now before the costs potentially dramatically increase.  Even if an executive isn't slated to move until spring of 2013, many will travel during the holidays with their families to get the lay of the land in their new area. 

It is important to keep in mind that economics also play a part in the process. Many of you may be thinking of pulling your home off the market now, in the hopes of getting a bit more for it in the spring, but there is no guarantee this will happen.  Keep in mind that it's all about supply and demand, and you are more likely to find fewer homes on the market at this time of year  - this is a great advantage for the seller. Yes, there are more buyers seeking the perfect home in the spring, but there are also more homes for sale greatly increasing the competition.

Perhaps the greatest reason to keep your home on the market over the next seven weeks is because while you are decking your lawn with for sale signs you are likely also decking the halls of your home. 

It's fair to say that most, if not all, homes look better decked out in holiday finery, but please keep in mind that not everyone will have the same religious preferences.  Pinecone centerpieces and mistletoe are a lovely addition to any home, and of course, you want a fire in the fireplace and something fabulous cooking.  Hot mulled cider on the stove is bound to entice any buyer in for a closer look at the kitchen, but be careful not to blare the Christmas carols or make the menorah the centerpiece of your mantle as this may not be enticing  to some.

As silly as it sounds, it's also been proven that people, in general, are more amenable during the holidays. With all the talk about peace and joy, negotiations often go smoother.  This is a win/win for everyone. So gather around your Thanksgiving table and plan your holiday blitz knowing that by the time homes come back on the market in the spring you could have a pocketful of cash to buy the home of your dreams.