Top Realtor recommends taking advantage of lull in market during holiday season

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - The No. 1 question clients ask Realtors this time of year is, “Should I have my house on the market during the holidays?”

The answer, according to Realtor Michele Flory, an associate at RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring, is a resounding yes.

“The market is never completely dead, if it was we would all go on vacation,” Flory said.

During the holidays there are fewer homes on the market, which means less competition, she said, and interest rates are lower and lenders and title companies are not as busy. Buyers are also more motivated to close before the end of the year for tax reasons.

"Plus, those who are looking during the holidays are more serious buyers and are excited to see new listings,” she said. “The holidays are also a great time for buyers to settle into their new homes before school starts again.”

Flory offers the following ideas and suggestions for those who will have their homes on the market during the holidays.

“Holiday decorations help make a home warm and cozy, and buyers can usually visualize their family in the setting. So having apple cider warming and a fire in the fireplace -- if it is cool enough outside -- is a big draw and creates a more inviting feeling,” she said.

Yet, it is important to keep holiday decorations to a minimum as to not overwhelm the space.

“Minimizing religious symbols is helpful,” Flory said. “And while Christmas trees add warmth, don’t crowd a room with an overly large tree, which makes the room seem smaller and the home’s features harder to see,” Flory said.

Don’t cover the windows, she added. Buyers need to be able to see the view, and it is a positive selling point when nature can light up the house.

Also, don’t forget about curb appeal, especially in the winter.

“People judge a home when they drive up, so keep up with the yard, bushes, plants and flower beds. Add winter flowers, such as pansies, and decorate the front door with a holiday theme to add warmth and color,” Flory said.

It is also a good idea to keep the patio and the pool area nice, and emphasize year-round use by adding space heaters so potential buyers can imagine using the space no matter what time of year.

“There are also little touches people can add that are very inviting and welcoming,” she said. “When we are with clients looking at homes, we often do not stop to eat. So having cups on the counter, and a pot of coffee or hot chocolate available is very welcomed. Having cookies or fruit out for clients is also nice, because clients and Realtors may have low blood sugar and need a bite of something. I cannot begin to tell you how welcoming these things are and the positive influence it has on the buyer.”

Many people are surprised at the number of clients looking for homes and how many actually sell during the holidays.

“All of these little tips really make a big difference. So if you are considering putting your home on the market in the coming holiday months, I would recommend it.” Flory said. “In today’s Houston real estate market there really is not a bad time, as people are moving to Houston year-round and looking year- round.”

Flory can be reached at 713-256-4998 or by email via the icon below.