Selling your home over the festive season

It's hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner. For most of us, it's the busiest time of the year, when there is often a mad rush to meet deadlines and get things completed before the holiday season begins.

Beat the rush

If you are thinking of selling your home, it's better to get it on the market well before Christmas, if you can.

By the end of December, you can expect the market to go a little quiet until early January however this year we may see an increase in buyer activity due to people not going on holidays as they normally would.

Use the holiday season to prepare

If you're considering selling during the festive period, now is the time to speak to a REIWA real estate agent to make the most of these changing market conditions. They'll advise you on what you need to do to your property in order to attract the most attention from buyers.

This might include things like painting, general maintenance or cleaning up the garden and pool. By using the holiday season to get your property primed, you'll be able to maximise your asking price when you go to market.

Understand your marketing approach

Your real estate agent can advise you on the best marketing strategy during this period, which may include a different approach to other times of the year.

Typically, sellers will choose to delay the marketing of their property until things show signs of picking up, however with more buyers active in the market, promoting your home over the holiday season maybe a strategic decision.

With increasing buyers looking for properties and prices already on the rise, days to sell taking a median of 22 days and 68 per cent of properties sell at or above asking prices in November, combined with the fact there might be less competition during this time, listing your property on reiwa.com may help you secure a good deal, much faster.

Potentially longer settlement times

When considering the contract terms, give yourself time to undertake things like building inspections and termite clearances. I recommend allowing around six weeks for the settlement period at this time of year.

The festive season is the perfect time of year to relax and spend time with family and friends, so it pays to be organised early so you can enjoy it.