When homeowners think about the “best” time to sell, spring usually comes to mind. But if you’ve been considering a move, you may not need to wait until next spring. September can be a great time to put your home on the market.
In fact, the early fall market can offer sellers a combination of motivated buyers, potentially less competition, and beautiful conditions for showcasing a home.
Buyers Are Still Looking
Not every buyer found the right home during the spring and summer markets. By September, many of those buyers are still actively searching — and they may be even more motivated.
Some want to be settled before the holidays. Others have leases ending, job changes, family needs, or other reasons they would like to purchase before the end of the year.
As a seller, motivated buyers are exactly the people you want walking through your door.
You May Have Less Competition
Spring traditionally brings a surge of new listings. September can be different.
Some homeowners who considered selling have decided to wait until the following spring, which can mean fewer homes competing for buyers’ attention.
When inventory is limited, a well-priced, well-prepared home can stand out.
Your Home Can Look Beautiful in September
September gives us some of the best of both worlds. Lawns and landscaping can still look great, while cooler temperatures make house hunting more comfortable.
As we move toward fall, simple seasonal touches can also make a home feel warm and inviting. A clean front entrance, colorful mums, fresh mulch, and a welcoming porch can make a great first impression without going overboard on seasonal decorating.
Everyone Is Getting Back Into a Routine
Summer can be a busy time. Between vacations, camps, weddings, family gatherings, and travel, house hunting sometimes gets pushed aside.
September brings a return to normal routines. Kids are back in school, vacations are winding down, and buyers who put their search on hold may start looking seriously again.
The End of the Year Creates Motivation
The holidays may still seem far away, but real estate transactions take time.
Buyers who want to be in their new home before Thanksgiving, the holidays, or the end of the year know they need to start making decisions now.
That sense of urgency can work in a seller’s favor.
Should You Sell Now or Wait Until Spring?
There isn’t one answer that works for every homeowner.
Your decision should depend on your home, your neighborhood, current inventory, your personal timeline, and what you plan to do after you sell.
This is especially important if you’re downsizing. Sometimes homeowners spend months — or even years — thinking about making a move because they aren’t sure where to begin.
You don’t have to have everything figured out before asking questions.
Before You Decide to Wait Until Spring, Let’s Talk
If selling has been on your mind, September is a great time to find out what your options look like.
I can help you determine what your home may be worth, what — if anything — you should do before listing, and whether selling this fall or waiting until spring makes the most sense for you.
No pressure. Just good information so you can make the right decision.
Christina Swain, Broker/Owner
Swain Real Estate
Serving buyers and sellers throughout Pennsylvania & New Jersey