Why you should sell in the fall

If you’re entering the housing market in the fall, don’t worry about it being too late to make a sale. In fact, here are four reasons why listing in autumn might turn out to be a savvy selling strategy.

A different buyer pool
There are three types of buyers who tend to prefer less saturated markets: millennials, empty nesters and employers who need to relocate new hires. These buyers typically swoop in late to avoid high season real estate rates — you might even get a quick sale from employers needing to settle their hires fast.

Buyers are more serious
Spring buyers can afford to be picky because of the sheer number of houses for sale. It might be months before they decide to make an offer. But by the time September rolls around, you’re left with only serious buyers who know they don’t have much time before winter hits.

There’s less competition
Selling in the fall means competing in a much smaller market. Combined with the impending arrival of harsh weather and the holiday season, this is a strong bargaining chip that can help you close quickly.

It’s easier to make improvements
Selling in the fall means you can take advantage of the warm weather preceding the season to make improvements. When you’re ready to sell, your house will be too.

Though conventional wisdom recommends selling in the spring or summer, selling in the fall has a number of advantages and may prove to be the more lucrative time to list your home.