Selling During the Holiday Season
By Bruce Walpole, REALTOR®
Walpole Realty Group
Keller Williams Realty
Selling a house in North Dallas over the holidays presents a unique set of challenges. While it’s certainly possible to make a sale, there are factors that may complicate the process, but there are ways to overcome some of the challenges.
Here are some of the challenges
Reduced Buyer Activity
Many people take a break from house hunting during the holiday season due to travel, family commitments, and the overall busyness of the time of year. As a result, the number of active buyers in the market tends to be lower.
Holiday Distractions
Prospective buyers may have other financial and personal priorities, such as purchasing holiday gifts, traveling, or hosting family. These distractions can make it less likely that they’ll prioritize a home search or make a quick decision.
Challenges with Showings
During the holidays, sellers may have limited availability for showings due to travel plans, family events, or other commitments. Additionally, buyers might not want to tour homes during a busy time.
Inventory
If you’re one of the few homes for sale, you may face more scrutiny over your price. Buyers might expect a discount due to the timing, or sellers may feel pressure to lower prices to make a sale.
Holiday Decor and Staging Challenges
Staging a home during the winter months can be tricky. You may need to highlight the warmth and comfort of the home to counteract the seasonal chill, but some buyers might not be able to appreciate the home as fully because of the time of year.
Financing and Timing Concerns
Many mortgage lenders and financial institutions are less available during the holiday period, potentially slowing down the approval process or delaying a buyer’s ability to finalize a deal.
Slightly Lower Selling Prices
With fewer buyers in the market, sellers may need to be more flexible on price. Some buyers might expect to pay less for a home during the holidays, given the reduced competition and the desire to close the deal before the year’s end.
How to Overcome These Challenges
Pricing Strategically
Be mindful of pricing. You may want to price slightly more aggressively to attract people who might not be looking or taking a break. Consider adjusting the price to reflect the season’s reduced activity.
Highlight Key Features
Emphasize the warmth, comfort, and holiday-friendly features of the home, like a cozy fireplace or inviting kitchen, which can resonate well with buyers looking for a welcoming space.
Flexibility on Showings
Be flexible with your schedule to accommodate potential buyers who can only see the home at non-traditional times.
Online Presence
With fewer showings in person, ensure your listing has great photos and possibly even a video tour to give buyers the option to view your home remotely.
Incentives
Offering closing cost assistance or a home warranty can help sweeten the deal for buyers who are hesitant to buy during the holidays.
By understanding these challenges and taking proactive steps to address them, you can still sell your home successfully during the holiday season.
