The advantages of putting your home on the market during this time of year can oftentimes outweigh the disadvantages. During the holidays, sellers will not see as much traffic from people who are "just looking". Buyers that are looking tend to be more serious, and they have more time to shop together which is an advantage over other times of the year. Sellers may get dismayed easily, as a result of the slower traffic; however, they should keep in mind that it's the quality of buyers versus the quantity. In addition, while families with children often prefer to wait until summer to move in order to avoid relocating during the school year, the break between semesters is a convenient time for moving as well. For both buyers and sellers, an advantage to holiday real estate transactions is that real estate agents, as well as lenders, home inspectors, appraisers and title companies have more time to spend with clients than at busier times of the year.

Homes that are decorated for the holidays can move buyers to look past any flaws in the home and imagine themselves living in the house. An important tip for sellers is to be tasteful in holiday decorations, as there is the potential for alienating buyers with overwhelming accessories.

The important thing to remember when you are contemplating whether to sell your home is your motivation. If you need to move, regardless of the time of year, it's always a good time to put your home on the market!

The following are tips to make the most of the holiday season when marketing your home:

1. November and December buyers are usually serious
2. Job transferees use the holiday to house hunt because January is the biggest transfer month
3. Investors usually want to close escrow by year-end for tax purposes
4. Nearly half of homebuyers don't have children living at home; there's no need to wait for school to let out
5. Remodeling, decorating, appliance installation and other services are more available and at less of a premium
6. Lenders aren't as busy and can process home loans faster
7. Homes show well when decorated for the holidays
8. Showings will be fewer and less intrusive, but more likely to be fruitful with motivated, qualified buyers
9. There is less competition with fewer homes on the market
10. Interest rates are low, giving buyers more spending power

Coming Soon: Smart Homes Boston and Century 21 Commonwealth's Holiday Marketing Plan for You!