When it comes to selling your house, timing can be everything. Listing your home at the right time can help you attract more buyers, sell your home faster, and even get a higher sale price. But with so many factors to consider—from the local real estate market to overall economic conditions—when is the actual best time to sell your house?
According to a 2022 report by ATTOM Data Solutions, the best time to sell a house is typically in the spring and summer months—specifically May, June, July, and August. During these months, homes tend to sell faster and for more money than in the winter months. On the other hand, the winter months of December, January, and February tend to be the worst time to sell a house. So what about the fall? The fall market - mid September in particulatr is a far better time to list than July or August when everyone is out of town on vacations.
Does this mean you may need to wait a few months to list your home? No! Read on to find out why.
Why Are Spring and Summer So Popular?
There are several reasons why the spring and summer months are considered the best time to sell a house. The warmer and more pleasant weather can make it easier for buyers to attend open houses and viewings. Additionally, families with children may be more likely to move during the summer months when school is out of session.
Spring and summer months are also popular for home sales simply because the inventory of available homes tends to be higher. Many sellers wait until the warmer months to list their homes, so buyers have more options to choose from, creating more competition among buyers and leading to bidding wars, which can drive up the sale price of your home.
However, Here’s the Real Estate Secret.
Profiting from these trends is best done by actually listing your house in late winter / early spring!
Listing your home for sale in late winter gives you a jumpstart so you’re well-positioned for the spring buying uptick. You’ll benefit from:
- Lower Inventory – Many homeowners wait until well into spring and summer to list their homes for sale, which means there is less competition in the market during late winter. This potentially leads to higher demand for properties and multiple offers, resulting in a faster sale and a higher selling price.
- Serious Buyers – Buyers looking for homes in late winter are typically serious and motivated to make a purchase. They may have missed out on homes during the busier seasons or are looking to move quickly due to a job relocation or other life changes.
- Better Pricing – With less inventory and more motivated buyers, sellers may be able to set a higher asking price, potentially leading to a higher sale price than if they waited until the spring or summer and greater competition.
- Weather – Although Massachusetts can have harsh winters, the worst weather is usually over by late winter, making it easier for buyers to view homes without snow, ice, or extreme temperatures. With spring on the way, you’ll soon have the added benefit of flowers in your yard to boost curb appeal too!
While the best time to sell a house can vary depending on a range of factors, including location, market conditions, and economic trends, late winter is the best time for most sellers because people want to move in the spring and summer. By working with a real estate advisor, you can make the most of the best time to sell your home and get a great sale price for your property.