Addressing the assumed: Real Estate Fall & Winter Slowdown

This time of year especially, we encounter the thought or mindset that every fall & winter Real Estate begins to slow down, and buying or selling should be "put on hold" until spring. Whether you're an agent, a buyer, or seller this could not be more false. There are still many Real Estate transactions that happen between November and February, and many folks still need to buy and sell properties. You may have a slower week or two if there is a massive blizzard or any sort of inclement weather, yet this does not mean the whole season will be slow. In fact listing your home in the winter months is very beneficial as typically the inventory is lower (caused by those with the slow season mindset) allowing you to sell quicker and for more money! As far as buying a home, winter is also a good season to be home shopping as there are less buyers, thus: less multiple offer situations, less multiple showings on homes, and may lead to getting your home for cheaper! It truly is a win-win for both buyers and sellers. Also a lot of the down payment grant programs that are currently available for buyers are released in the early months of the year, so if you're buying you can take advantage of those before the funds run out. If selling, you can benefit from the influx of buyers signing up for the renewed grants! Another misconception that comes up is: buying or selling during the Holidays is a bad idea. Again this is untrue and is an assumption. With the two major holidays about 4-5 weeks apart this allows plenty of time for buyers and sellers to be active with their Real Estate needs and still get all of that Holiday shopping done (which may include a new house!). There have been numerous times we have gotten accepted offers on Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Years! Don't be fooled by the rumors- Real Estate does not have a "slow-season"!