Buying & Selling Real Estate in the Winter

While some say that buying or selling real estate during the winter isn’t worth your time; Here at United Country Real Estate, we tend to disagree. According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), more than 11,000 homes are sold on average per day from December straight through to February. In fact, we find that sellers are more motivated to part with their property during the cold winter months, giving an advantage to buyers needing a swift transaction. 

Advantages of Buying Real Estate in Winter

There are many advantages to buying homes or land during the winter.  Sale transactions often move quicker, allowing for more time for negotiations. With fewer homes up for sale during this time, prices are often lower, presenting more opportunities for newer and nicer living options. Additionally, fewer buyers are searching during these months, so you’ll have less competition when it comes to finding your ideal property. Sellers are motivated to relieve themselves of their asset, which can frequently lead to reduced prices and seamless transactions.

Buyers can also see how the land or house functions during bad weather. Observe where snow might accumulate or how energy efficient and warm the property can be. By touring homes during snowy weather, you can test the readiness and durability of the furnace, windows, water heater, insulation or, if applicable, the fireplace.   

When it comes to land, cold weather can actually provide you a clearer vision of the topography compared to warmer months. Take note of how accessible the roads are, how the property drains and which areas the snow will affect the most. 

Strategies of Buying Real Estate in Winter

Team Up with a Reliable Real Estate Expert

Having a property expert who lives and breathes real estate will help you find your ideal property faster. Seek someone with experience in selling real estate in any climate. If you’re seeking a lifestyle or country property, make sure you team up with a real estate professional who understands the ins and outs of the land, region and property necessities. 

Assess Winter Durability 

Does the home and land hold up well in the snow and cold? Are the roads accessible or passable? Are there drainage issues? Knowing how your property holds up in rough weather conditions will provide you a clear assessment of any potential problems. 

Advantages of Selling Real Estate in Winter

Selling your home or land during the winter can prove to be quite beneficial, offering more time to consider buyers. During the slower season, fewer transactions are happening at the same time compared to summer months. This leads to real estate specialists giving you more of their time and quicker loan processing. 

With less competition when it comes to buyers, sellers can have a little more wiggle room when setting the price. Less buyers also means those in the market are serious buyers with an incentive to streamline the transaction process. 

Strategies of Selling Real Estate in Winter

Decorate for Winter

Go minimal on holiday decorations, but turn up the cozy factor. Opt for decorations that accentuate the space, not overpower it, and stick to more neutral colors. Add blankets and decorative pillows to couches and light the fireplace or scented candles when visitors come to tour. 

Ensure Home is Ready for Winter

Buyers can be turned off by a property if it’s not properly prepared for winter snows. Ensure the sale of your house by checking that your heating works efficiently, there aren’t any drainage or puddling issues and your roof and windows are up-to-date. 

Potential Challenges of Buying and Selling During Winter

Winter weather slows the market down, which can be both a benefit and a hindrance when trying to buy or sell a property during that time. Limited buyers and inventory require different strategies, so make sure you’re well informed before beginning your winter real estate journey.

Curb appeal is limited by snowfall and bare trees, so showcasing the beauty of the home requires a creative approach. For sellers, try to highlight the best aspects of your property and decorate your home appropriately. Buyers must use some imagination or further research to picture the property during all four seasons.  

Some aspects of homes cannot be inspected during the winter, such as roofs, air conditioning units, septic tanks and other terrain features. Appraisers can miss structural issues if the property is covered in snow, which can affect mortgage rates, so ensure you hire only trusted professionals. 

Preparing for Spring

Spring, specifically April, is seen as the optimal time for buying or selling houses and properties. To prepare your home and land for spring, start by assessing your land and removing any debris. 

Buyers, if you’re waiting until the spring when a burst of new inventory enters the market, spend this time getting pre-approved for any loans. As thorough inspections are difficult during the winter, be prepared for a follow-up assessment if needed. Keep a close eye on the available listings in your desired area and seek out an experienced real estate agent to help you along the way. 

Spring is an ideal time to buy or sell real estate. As the earth is bursting with new life and possibilities, let your real estate journey mirror the land. Take the first step towards a more fulfilling and flourishing life by finding your perfect home or land with United Country Real Estate today. And trust this author, there is nothing quite as delightful as the flowers that pop up on your land as a spring surprise.