Is there a best time of year to sell your home?

A realtor gives the house keys to the buyers as they sell their home at the right time.

Have you heard that spring is the best time to sell your home? Listing inventories increase in spring, as well as the number of interested home buyers. More home sales occur between April and July than any other time of year for several reasons.

Primarily, families with children don’t like to change schools in the middle of the school year. Secondly, properties tend to show better in the spring and summer months when the lawns are green and the flowers are in bloom. Don’t underestimate the power of a beautifully manicured landscape, especially in Mid-Missouri. Lastly, buyers will usually have a large tax refund in their pocket this time of year—ready to make a big purchase.

In the winter months, however, listing inventories tend to be fewer and far between. There are also fewer buyers. Don’t let that dissuade you. Most realtors agree that both buyers and sellers in the winter market tend to be highly motivated.

If you’re thinking about listing, but worried your home won’t sell, the winter season is the perfect time to prepare your house. Take a tour of your home with a fresh perspective and think about some small (or large if you’re brave) home improvement projects you could start that would really make a difference in the spring. You’ll have an advantage over other sellers who might have waited too long to make changes. Winter can be a great time to influence a highly motivated buyer. Your small driveway now has an advantage —less snow shoveling! Get creative, but be honest and don’t get discouraged.

The seasons have their advantages and disadvantages. The “right” time to sell a home is highly dependent upon a variety of factors. However, it’s always a good time to sell your home if the price is right, no matter what the season.