Many people are deterred from searching for homes during the holiday season – too many distractions, fewer listings on the market limiting your options, and winter weather to contend with. But there are always people who need to move, and this can be a great time to purchase a home for those who are willing to deal with a little extra work in an already busy season. There’s usually less competition in the market, and with sellers also keen to wrap things up before the holiday season, chances are you’ll be able to strike a deal if you can move quickly.
So, if you’re planning to buy a home this holiday season, here are some tips that will help make the process run smoother.
Find Motivated Sellers
Whatever the time of year, there is always a reason for people to move, but you are likely to find more motivated sellers during the holiday season. Once people have made the decision to move, they will be eager to get it done and focus on the festivities, so you’re more likely to find sellers who will consider offers. Few sellers want to continue paying taxes for a house they don’t wish to keep, and with the holiday celebrations around the corner they will be as keen to get things wrapped up as you are.
Prepare for a Faster Closing
The holiday season also coincides with the end of the year, so there’s usually an urgency to finalize a sale as quickly as possible. For that reason, you should be prepared for a faster than usual closing. Ensure you have pre-approval for any mortgage you will need, and ready access to funds for closing. Be sure to respond quickly to any requests from attorneys, lenders and brokers. If you demonstrate to your sellers that you are able to move quickly your offer will be considered preferably.
Use a Well-Connected Realtor
If you want to get early access to as many potential properties as possible, you need a realtor! As well as keeping an eye on what is on the market right now, a well-connected agent knows about houses that will be coming available in the near future, as well as off-market listings that are not publicly advertised. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Greater Boston area, Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty is the right place to find a realtor with their finger on the pulse of the home market.
There will always a few extra hurdles to buying a home during the holiday season, but don’t let that deter you from making a move. Contact Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty with any questions or schedule a viewing.