Selling in the Winter

Is the market as stone cold as the season? It is true that the pool of buyers is smaller in the winter, and many homeowners follow suit. As temperatures drop, the sun sets earlier, and white blankets cover yards, you might think it would deter buyers. 

But, not the determined ones. Read below and you might just warm up to the idea of selling in such an opportune market. 

• Foot Traffic: Not everyone is going to trot out in below zero weather for a showing. However, houses on the market at this time of year tend to sell quicker, because there is a surplus of serious buyers. The boot marks up to your door may be few, but in our experience they do mean business. 

• Corporate Relocations: January is the peak time for corporate companies to relocate their employees. The Twin Cities Metro has a booming business ecosystem, and many Fortune 500 companies. It would be more than just a guess to say that we will see new transplants coming in, ringing in 2023.  

• Easy to Schedule Showings: Have you ever heard a Minnesotan say that there is nothing to do between January to May? Aside from the holidays, people are less busy in the winter. The best path is the one of least resistance, and this is the season to align your google calendar with theirs.

  

• Moves are Less Expensive: You know buyers are determined if they are willing to move boxes out in the cold. But, the clever ones know that hiring professionals costs significantly less. With a 30% off discount tag, winter could be the hottest season to move. 

• More Likely to Get Offer Accepted: With fewer buyers to compete with, home-seekers believe winter is the primetime to look. And, they are not wrong. Dream homes are pursued vigilantly. So, make sure the sidewalk is shoveled (and salted) when hopefuls come wandering up to your door. 

• Less Seller Competition: Even in a snow covered home, your listing gets way more visibility. Many take their homes off the market as soon as temperatures drop. Make yours glisten with things like lightly scented candles and cozy blankets to match the season.

• Warm Welcome: The beautiful thing about cold temps is that buyers can test the heat, fireplace, and windows. Minnesota winters are notoriously cold, so invite them in with cozy fire, sealed windows and a thermostat that works. They are more likely to buy, when the walls will keep them toasty for the years to come. 

Added Bonus: Great excuse not to host for the holiday (yes!) 

Ready to sell your home? 'Tis the season to beat out that hot summer competition. 

From Our Home to Yours, 

VIBE Realty