When it comes to homebuying around the holidays, it’s advantage: buyer. With so many distractions this time of year, you can slide right in there and make a smart move. If you are shopping for a home over the holidays there are several benefits for you to consider:

Have You Been Outbid Lately?
The market has been hot for a few years, and, in many places, multiple offers and over-asking-price sales have become the norm. Competing in those markets can be demoralizing.

However, if buy over the holidays you can slice through the buyer pool. While others are trimming their tree or searching for the perfect pumpkin cheesecake recipe, you’re off snagging the home you want.

First-Time Buyers
The above scenario, where buyers are constantly being outbid on homes, is a nightmare for first-timers looking for a home. Not only is there a limited supply of available homes that are affordable in the first place, but the number of folks that are vying for them is tremendous.

There are time-tested tips for winning in a multiple-offer situation, like getting preapproved, limiting contingencies on the home, being flexible about the closing, and writing a “love letter” to the seller, which may or may not have an impact. However, acting during a time when others may be distracted and not actively searching is perhaps the most effective method of getting what you want.

You Are More Likely To Land A Deal
No one likes to overpay regardless of their price point. If you consider that those who are selling their home during the holidays are generally doing so because they have to, not because they want to, it makes sense that when you do find a house, it might be priced better than anything you’d find months later. Home prices typically drop to a 12-month low in the month of December.

What Better Gift Could A New Home Be?
In addition to all the other reasons the holiday season is so attractive for buyers, people are in higher spirits, celebrating, opening presents, and enjoying family. People are more inclined to be generous, even if it means coming down on the price. Of course, the key is working with a real estate professional who knows the market and your prospective neighborhood. Call me today.