This blog originally appeared at Keeping Current Matters.
As the year approaches its end, you might be contemplating putting your house on the market. However, the decision to sell now or wait until January may cross your mind. Although delaying until after the holidays might seem appealing, here are three compelling reasons to consider making your move before the new year.

Get One Step Ahead of Other Sellers
In the residential real estate market, homeowners typically show a tendency to avoid listing their houses toward the end of the year. The holiday season tends to keep people busy, and selling their house might become a lower priority until the beginning of the new year when schedules and social calendars ease. However, this situation presents an opportunity for you to gain an advantage.
Opting to sell now, when others might postpone until after the holidays, can give you a head start on the competition. Initiate the process with a real estate agent today to ensure your house hits the market before your neighbors.
Get Your House in Front of Eager Buyers
Although the supply of homes for sale has increased compared to the previous year, it remains relatively low. This scarcity implies a current shortage of homes on the market. While certain buyers might postpone their moving plans until January, others will still have to relocate due to personal circumstances or life changes.
These buyers will remain active later in the year and will be highly motivated to facilitate their move. However, the hurdle they will encounter is the limited inventory available to meet their requirements. As highlighted in a recent Investopedia article:
“. . . if your house is up for sale in the winter and someone is looking at it, chances are that person is serious and ready to buy. Anyone shopping for a new home between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is likely going to be a serious buyer. Putting your home on the market at this time of year and attracting a serious buyer can often result in a quicker sale.”
Use Your Equity To Fuel Your Move
Consider that homeowners currently enjoy historically high levels of equity. According to CoreLogic, the average equity per mortgage holder has surged to nearly $290,000. This means that the equity you currently hold in your home might be sufficient to cover a significant portion, if not all, of a down payment on your dream home.
When contemplating the decision to sell before the end of the year, it’s crucial to recall the factors that initially fueled your desire to move. Whether it’s the quest for a new home in a more fitting location, one that provides the ideal space for you and your family, or a response to evolving needs, a local real estate agent can assist you in assessing your home equity and devising a strategy to achieve your goal of making a move.
Bottom Line
Listing your home before the new year can offer unique benefits. Less competition, motivated buyers, and your equity gains can all play to your advantage. Reach out, and let’s achieve your goals before winter sets in.

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