The holiday season is upon us and the winter months are just ahead. The real estate market naturally tends to slow down during this time of year, especially when we have colder weather in Southeastern Pennsylvania and Northern Delaware.
However, there are still people buying and selling houses in the winter. For some, this is a perfect time to move. Many look at the upcoming New Year as a chance to turn over a new leaf. What better way to do that than moving into a new home? Sellers right now still benefit from low housing inventory. Buyers will face a little less competition in the slower market conditions. If the situation is right for both sides, a great deal can be made that benefits everyone!
So, how do you plan to make a move in the winter? Here are a few tips to consider:
It’s Never Too Early to Start Planning
We’re still in the fall season now, but you can start planning your winter home sale and/or purchase in advance. Home sellers will want to start getting their houses ready. The earlier you can take care of repairs and getting the property ready for listing—especially before the hectic holidays arrive—the better. Home buyers will want to plan out their budget and get their finances in order. You may even start talking with mortgage lenders now to get pre-approved for your home loan. Then, when the time comes, you will know how much you can afford and you will have solid financing behind you.
Think About Timing
Timing a move can be tricky any time of year. This is even more true if you are selling one home and buying another simultaneously. Decide if you want to plan for some overlap so you aren’t feeling too rushed. Or, make plans to sell first and rent for awhile while you search for your new home. If you are moving from a rental situation and buying your first home, it’s still good to have a plan and work out timing. Everything moves a little slower during the holiday months, so don’t get yourself into an awkward situation between your lease and your closing/move-in dates.
Hire a Mover
Moving during the winter months can be a huge pain because of the colder weather, rain and even snow. Roads can be slick for rental moving trucks you aren’t familiar driving. Carrying heavy furniture up and down slippery surfaces can be annoying, and this is not the best time of year to ask friends to help. Plus, you may end up tracking mud and moisture all over your new home when moving stuff inside. Hire a professional moving company. They know what they are doing. They have all the equipment and experience to safely move your items from one place to the other without making a huge mess, no matter how nasty the weather is outside. Still, it may be a good idea to sign up for any extra insurance they offer!
Be Prepared for the Cold
You should be fully stocked up on winter supplies like snow shovels and sand/salt. Don’t pack up all your winter coats, umbrellas and gloves that you may need while moving. Make sure that all the utilities at your new home are turned on and everything is working (especially the heating and hot water). Be prepared for shorter days when it gets dark very early. The last thing you want to happen is to move in and not have what you need to stay safe and warm.
Don’t Let the Season Slow You Down
If now is the right time to buy and/or sell your home, don’t worry about the fact that it’s the winter season. Just because the market is slowing down a little doesn’t mean it’s not the perfect opportunity to make your move. In fact, it may work out even more to your advantage to plan a big real estate transaction.
If you are thinking about making a move soon, contact The Cyr Team today for an introductory real estate consultation. Let us help you get prepared for your home purchase and/or home sale.