Contrary to popular belief, winter isn’t necessarily a bad time to sell your home if you are looking to put it on the market. Most would assume spring and summer are the best times of the year to list your home, but keep reading to find out why it may also benefit you to sell in winter.

• Not as Much Competition

There are fewer homes on the market in the winter, so you most likely can be more aggressive with your pricing – being that there’s less out there to compete with.

• Your Home May Get More Attention

By listing in the winter when there are usually fewer homes on the market, yours may pop up for those doing a home search must faster than it could in the spring or summer. In addition, if you’re using a realtor – chances are they have more time to devote to your listing in the winter than they would during prime spring housing market (March/April/May). You might even get to close faster in winter months because the calendar is typically less filled to complete appraisals, inspections, and get mortgage applications processed from lenders.

• Potential Lower Costs

Some will say that contractors could offer better prices on home repairs or maintenance during winter (weather permitting of course), as well as moving companies may charge you less too. Do your research, and see if you can score a winter deal!

Once you’re ready to list your home, be sure it’s in the best shape to get you the best offer. Here are a few areas to stay on top of:

• Cleaning – Before any listing photos are taken or any showing appointments are made, thoroughly clean your house. Vacuum, dust, wash the floors, and clean your bathrooms. An unclean home is sure to turn potential buyers away and fast.
• Repainting – If there are any spots that need touching up or it’s easy to make a room that’s not a neutral color more neutral, get to repainting. It’ll be easier for potential buyers to envision the space in neutral colors or how they might make it their own.
• Lighting – A lighter, brighter home is an attractive home and will typically help you sell faster.
• Decluttering – Less is usually more, especially when it comes to selling your house. Buyers want to envision their own items out and around the home, not see yours. Nor do they want to open up your closets and have everything fall out on them. Declutter as much as possible before scheduling any showings.
• Make small repairs – If you can quickly and easily repair any small cracks, polish your floors, re-grout, or remove carpet stains – do so.
• Consider curb appeal – Make your home inviting for possible buyers. Pick any weeds, mow the grass if needed and the weather cooperates, clean up any leaves from the property, maybe even add outdoor plants or porch décor if applicable.

If you’re in the market for a home in Monmouth or Ocean Counties, First Financial is here for you! With competitive rates, lower fees, and personalized service – we’ll make your home buying journey a less stressful one. Our mortgage experts are also available to answer any of your home buying questions with no commitment required. Simply complete our quick online appointment form to get started. And if you’re just starting to shop but not ready to apply for a mortgage, complete our mortgage preapproval form to find out how much you can finance. We’re happy to help get you into your dream home this year!*

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Subject to credit approval. Credit worthiness determines your APR. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history and are for qualified borrowers. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. Higher rates may apply depending on terms of loan and credit worthiness. Minimum loan amount is $100,000. Available on primary residence only. The Interest Rates, Annual Percentage Rate (APR), and fees are based on current market rates, are for informational purposes only. Mortgage insurance may be required depending on loan guidelines. This is not a credit decision or a commitment to lend. If mortgage insurance is required, the mortgage insurance premium could increase the APR and the monthly mortgage payment. See Credit Union for details. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Mortgage and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties.