Five reasons why you don’t need to wait until the spring to sell your home
Now that we’ve got the first few weeks of 2024 under our belt and feel comfortable in our new year routines, many homeowners are contemplating a significant change in their lives to spice things up—moving home. Contrary to a general misconception, January is a prime time to put your property on the market, and here are five reasons why you don’t need to wait until the spring to sell your home:
New Year, New Beginnings
The start of the year is marked by resolutions, lifestyle changes, and even higher rates of divorce. Did you know that January traditionally has a higher rate of divorce than any other month? This newfound motivation creates a pool of potential buyers actively searching for their next property. These factors contribute to an increased number of people actively seeking new homes. By listing your property early, you tap into this wave of motivated buyers, enhancing your chances of a swift and profitable sale.
Spring into action early
Traditionally, many sellers wait until spring to list their properties, leading to a congested marketplace. Right now it’s a seller’s market which means that with less property on the market right now, buyers have less choice and this can create a sense of urgency when it comes to making offers. Historically this has lead to higher sales prices. By taking the proactive approach of putting your property on the market in January, you position yourself in an optimal place and can increase the speed of sale as well as price given the current market conditions.
With fewer properties competing for attention, your home stands out, attracting more serious buyers and traditionally, speedier sales processes. Last year, according to Rightmove the market grew by 7.6% between the months of February and April alone.
Serious January Sales
Winter home seekers tend to be more serious about their intentions to purchase. Unlike the spring and summer months, where many are just “window shopping,” those looking in the winter are often committed to making a move. This can result in quicker sales with fewer viewings, streamlining the selling process.
Strategic selling success
The spring rush often leads to increased competition among sellers, potentially driving down sale prices. To maximise the early months of the year, consider the following strategies:
Daytime Viewings:
Schedule viewings during the day to showcase your property in the best light. Ensure ample daylight, clean windows, and open curtains to create a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
Outdoor Appeal:
With outdoor space continuing to be a priority for buyers, ensure your garden or outside areas are well-maintained. Clean furniture, tidy clutter, and consider adding winter-flowering plants for a touch of colour. Lighting can also enhance evening appeal.
Warm and Inviting:
Despite the cold weather, heat your property adequately during viewings. A warm and welcoming atmosphere can make a lasting impression on potential buyers.
Choose the Right Estate Agent:
Partner with a reputable estate agent who can guide you through the selling process. Avoid overpricing, as it may discourage potential buyers and lead to a prolonged time on the market.
The Agent Advantage (Jacobs Steel, of course!)
No matter the month, the key to experiencing a seamless sales process from beginning to end is to find a great estate agent. For almost 40 years, Jacobs Steel has been a trusted name in West Worthing, Findon, Worthing, Lancing, Shoreham and Brighton & Hove. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through this advantageous window in the housing market and help you reach your new year goals in record time.
Don’t wait for the predictable surge in spring—launch your property onto the market now. By doing so, you not only avoid the oversupply in the spring market but also position yourself strategically, ensuring your home gets the attention it deserves.
Trust the experts at Jacobs Steel to help you navigate this opportune time in the housing market and secure the best results for your property. Read our testimonials here.
