I want to sell my house but …..

This market has been tough an a lot of folks that really need or want to sell. We hear a lot about folks that are ‘under water’ on their mortgage and those are the ones stinging the most. That accounts for about 25% of all the homes with mortgages or about 15 million homes. Not all homes have mortgages. I know the norm feels like you have to have  a mortgage but over 30% of the homes in the US are owned free and clear. No mortgage.

A little math might be helpful:

* Source for data is US Census Bureau

So that being said, most of us  can sell and probably walk away with some money in our pocket. Using that to make a down payment on a different house could be a good idea since this is the best buyers market we have seen in over 50 years.

OK, that’s enough stats for this time of day. What I really wanted to share was that we are running low on inventory and if you are thinking about selling this may be the best time to do it. I know, I know, the holidays are coming and “we think we are going to wait until after January to list the house” is something I am beginning to hear.

That will put you at a serious disadvantage in this market.

As our inventory drops the ones that are on the market today will get the most activity and will be seen by the buyers that actually have to do something. No one is out ‘shopping’ the market right now. They are looking because they have to move!! Here are the 10.5 reasons that now is the time to list a house:

1. If you sell now you will be a non-contingent buyer in the spring and can take advantage of the increased inventory and lower prices

2. You can sell now for more money and we can provide for a delayed closing or extended occupancy until early next year.

3. Even though your house is on the market you can restrict showings during the 6-7 days around the holidays

4. January is traditionally the month for employees to begin new jobs. Since transferees cannot wait until spring to buy, you need to be on the market during the holidays to capture that market.

5. Some people buy before the end of the year for tax reasons.

6. Buyers have more time to look for a home during the holidays.

7. Buyers are more emotional during the holidays and that can give you an advantage in negotiations.

8. Houses show the best during the holidays when they are all decorated

9. The number of listings in January will DRAMATICALLY increase and the demand for your individual home will much less. More houses equal more competition.

10. Serious buyers have fewer houes to choose from during hte holidays and less competition means more money for you.

And number 10.5 is that the buyers during the holidays are SERIOUS about buying. No tire kickers or ‘just looking’ going on.

I am taking listings now. If you are thinking about selling then we need to talk. Call me at 678-231-1578 and we’ll get you on the schedule to see if it makes sense for you to list now.

Thanks for listening,
Jerry Robertson

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