Selling your Denver home in the dead of this winter season might seem like a bad idea, particularly considering the current state of the economy, but waiting until spring to list your property could be a mistake.  This year,mid- to late-winter could be a great time to sell, particularly if interest rates stay low - and they are historically low right now. 

Normally, the inventory of homes for sale in Denver dwindles in December as people focus on the holidays. Sellers who market their homes early in the year often find little competition from other sellers, and this year we are predicting that sales will peak earlier than in the past.  We are recommending, in order to avoid competition, that the best time to get your home on the market will be February or early March.

What makes this year different than most?  Starting last Fall, investors and first time buyers began scooping up foreclosures due to the low prices, contributing to the low inventory we have now. Government incentives will continue to have a big impact in early 2010.  The Feds extended until April 30 the first-time buyer tax credit (of up to $8,000) and added a tax incentive for repeat buyers (of up to $6,500). Thus, many buyers are determined to sign a contract before the April 30 tax credit deadline to make sure they get the tax credits.  To safely achieve that deadline, buyers will need to be out looking for a home right away.

For sellers, listing in the next several weeks will ensure that their property will have far less competition - most people wait to put their home on the market in the spring months.  Since there is less inventory in the winter than at other times of the year (especially this year), we will be able to make your home stand out with a comprehensive marketing program.  And, by selling your home during the winter, you may benefit by being able to more easily hit your moving goals and priorities (you were going to sell your home anyway, right?). 

Additionally, the buyers who do look at homes at this time of year may be fewer, but they are usually much more serious about making a purchase.  January is typically a month with a lot of corporate transfers, and many people have to buy a home as soon as possible because of this.  By starting to market your home early, you may be able to secure a higher price because of the decrease in supply.

Are you thinking about selling your Denver metro area home?  If so, call the experts at the Bandy Team and find out what they can do to help you achieve your goals!  We have experience helping both Denver home sellers and Denver home buyers - and all across the Denver metro area.  We would love to be your local Denver area real estate pros!

Marianne Bandy
Check out our Moving Checklist