As the weather gets colder and the snow starts to fall, you see fewer “for sale” signs on yards and fewer listings popping up online. This is expected as many homebuyers and sellers are focusing on their holiday plans and don’t want to move in the winter. However, those who choose to hibernate through winter instead of selling are missing out on a lucrative time of year
to put their home on the market. Here are five reasons why.

1. There’s Less Competition
   It’s well established that most sellers will wait until spring to list their properties. That’s great news for you- the winter months will have less competition. You can get your listing in front of buyers faster and easier with less competition bidding for their attention. Here’s a tip: work
   with your realtor on pricing your home to sell. The bidding wars might be slower this time of year, so take that into consideration.
   
2. Serious Buyers Are Still Looking
   Just because sellers take the winter off doesn’t mean that buyers do; specifically, serious buyers. There are plenty of people who don’t see the winter months as a hindrance to their homebuying plans. Some don’t even celebrate the holidays. They, too, are taking advantage of fewer buyers in the field and thus less competition for them. You can easily get matched with a serious buyer over the holidays.
   
3. Optimal Staging Opportunities
   Who doesn’t love the look of Christmas lights reflecting off a fresh layer of snow? Exteriors and interiors are in their prime during the holidays. While you don’t want to go overboard, you can certainly use this time of year to your advantage when staging. Make your living room cozy and warm, put a pumpkin loaf in the oven, and light some apple-cider scented candles. You’ll still want to remove any personal memorabilia (like family photos) and make sure your driveway and walkways are shovelled.
   
4. Tax Benefits from Moving
   Everyone appreciates a good tax break before the new year starts, and moving is one way of saving some money. Buying at the end of the year reduces the buyer’s property tax bill which, for some, is an easy reason to buy in the winter instead of waiting until spring. This is another
   reason buyers are more serious at this time of year; they’re thinking about their upcoming taxes.
   
5. End-of-Year Changes
   Companies usually announce major changes at the end of the year. Perhaps they’re closing the physical office for good and all employees will be 100% remote. Or, maybe their headquarters are moving to a new city. For the employees these changes affect, moving during the holidays is their only option. Waiting for spring isn’t possible if their job will be in another city, so being prepared for a quick sale will help you seal the deal.
   
   Do You Need a Realtor to Help Sell Your Home This Winter?
   You can take advantage of the benefits of selling during the holidays by working with an experienced realtor- one that doesn’t take the holidays off. The de Denus Team is dedicated to selling our clients homes no matter the time of year. If you want to sell your home for a great price this winter, contact us today.