The Springtime Real Estate Market in Annapolis Starts Now: 5 Things Considered
February 26th, 2008 Categories: One Minute Realtor, Sellers
You probably think that springtime is one of the best seasons to sell a home in the Annapolis area. And you would be correct. Here’s why you need to get in gear now, even before you put your snow shovel away.
1. At the first hint of warm weather, home shoppers come out of the woodwork. If you wait until it warms up to start preparing, you’ll miss the first surge of shoppers. Like a punctual friend of mine likes to say, unless you’re 5 minutes early, you’re late. Don’t be late.
2. Buyers are looking, earlier than ever, for the homes they want to move into this summer. Homebuyers with school age children are making offers in March and April on homes they want to move into in June, after school gets out. This gives the kids plenty of time to settle in and make friends before the new school year begins. If you list your home in May, you’ll arrive late to this party.
3. Our friend and colleague, Linda Donnelly - who works with our clients staging their homes in preparation for a sale - likes to say that there’s a big difference between the way we live in a home, and the way we stage it for sale. That transition can easily eat up a couple of weeks. Plan on enough time to do it right.
4. It’s no secret that homes are taking longer to sell these days. You have to factor that into your moving plans. One of our pricier listings just went under contract in 29 days, but the average days on market for that price range is closer to 200 days. Do the math and see if your plan adds up.
5. In another month, everyone you may need - carpenters, landscapers, carpet layers, movers, lenders, etc - is going to be twice as busy as they are now. When will you be in a better position to negotiate price? There’s no time like the present.
Shameless Plug: Of course, no matter the season, we’re never too busy to meet with you to discuss the sale of your home. Or help you buy one. Our clients tell us we’re pretty darn good at both.
