Fall and winter aren’t traditionally considered the peak time for property sales — that honor goes to spring and summer. However, this doesn’t mean it can’t be profitable. In fact, with the right strategies and an understanding of the market’s dynamics, now can be an ideal time to list your property.
Prime Time
As long as I’ve been a Realtor, I’ve heard clients and other agents alike talk about things slowing down as the year wanes. My experience has proven otherwise, however. Pittsburgh in the fall is blessed with vibrant foliage and crisp weather, and often overlooked as the prime time to put your home on the market. This unique window between the heat of summer and the busyness of winter holidays offers a fantastic opportunity to play up the charm of your home and attract serious buyers.
Less Competition
One of the biggest advantages that I’ve always experienced with the fall real estate market is reduced competition. Many sellers aim to have their homes sold by late summer, resulting in lower inventory levels later in the year. This scarcity of properties can work in your favor, making your listing more attractive to active buyers. Additionally, buyers active in autumn and winter are usually serious about purchasing, reducing the chances of last-minute pullouts or protracted negotiations.
Closing a sale at the end of the year can also lead to considerable tax deductions, including property tax and mortgage interest, for the entire year’s income—even if the deal was sealed in December. To be sure, you should always run things like this by your professional tax advisor.
Prepping Your Home
Maintain A Clean Exterior: A neat, well-maintained exterior is crucial to creating a good first impression. Ensure your lawn is free of dead leaves and debris. Trim any overgrown vegetation that may be blocking windows or entrance paths. If necessary, hire a professional landscaping service to keep your yard in pristine condition.
Rainy and windy weather can leave your windows looking streaked and dusty. Clean your windows thoroughly, both inside and out, and remove any screens for a good hose down. This will not only brighten up your home but also show buyers that your property is well-maintained.
Inspect Your HVAC: With the colder months approaching, your heating system needs to be in top form. Get your HVAC system inspected by a professional and replace your furnace filter to ensure a warm, fresh-smelling interior.
Clean Your Fireplace: If your home has a fireplace, make sure it’s clean and functional. A crackling fire can add a cozy, welcoming ambiance to your home—something buyers will appreciate in the colder months.
Work With the Right Agent: Of course, I’m biased. But the reality is that not every agent is right for every client. A knowledgeable real estate agent can provide invaluable assistance during the selling process. Selling your home on your own has been proven to be a far more difficult task to manage than choosing the right realtor. You can always find me at pittsburghpropertydiva.com If I’m not the right fit for you, I’m happy to help you find someone who is!
