Market
The fall season is one of the most pleasant across the
State of Massachusetts. From the turning of the color of the leaves
to the cooling breeze that signifies that school is back in
session. Or what about the fact that playoff baseball is upon us
(beads included), and that the unforgettable smell of cinnamon and
pumpkin flows out of every mom and pop bakery and coffee shops
lining our quaint, historic streets? It truly must be fall again,
and what a lovely realization that is. So when it comes to real
estate, what are some important things to remember during this time
of the year?
With regards to the market itself, not many would have
predicted that the rampant spring market would continue its
successes all throughout the summer months. Well, indeed it did and
only continues to do so. Both sales volume and median prices are
sky-high, far outpacing the same corresponding months from prior
years, and the average days on the market continue to plummet as
buyer demand relentlessly holds firm. Sales in particular are at an
eight-year high.
It is a unique situation, because while rates still
remain low (though having risen), prices are still on the rise, and
have yet to rise to their peak. In this regard, it is evidently an
opportunistic time for buyers, yet with the plethora of prospective
buyers causing a great deal of competition in the form of bidding
wars, it is also an ideal time to sell.
The inventory levels year-to-date have been lower than
usual, but for the aforementioned reasons, more people are getting
off of the fence of uncertainty and are testing the market with
marvelous results. So if you are one of these fortunate sellers,
how would you best go about preparing your home for sale today?
Here are some helpful tips:
-
Landscape – The beautiful red and
orange leaves are lovely on our trees and scattered around the
garden, but prospective home buyers still like to see nicely
manicured lawns. Either as a DIY (Do-It-Yourselfer) or by hiring a
professional landscaper, ensure that your lawn is not messy and
disheveled. For a really enhanced seasonal look, decorate around
your home with warm fall tones in the form of pumpkins, pots, and
more. -
Remove Patio Furniture – Unless you
have an outdoor heater or a protected area via a ceiling or other
form of shelter, it is important to take your patio furniture into
storage. Not only will they not be in use during this time of year,
especially as winter approaches, but the weather wear-and-tear to
them is certainly unwanted. -
Inspect the Exterior – Being mindful
that the weather will only continue to become more unpleasant to be
outside, it is crucial that you immediately inspect the exterior of
your home. Paint may need to be replaced, decks may need proper
upkeep in order to last the grueling cold of winter, and the list
goes on. From risks such as clogged gutters, cracks or leaks in
your homes walls, roof, or windows, or if the necessity arises to
trim back trees and branches, now is the time for action. -
De-Clutter – It is the moment where
we change up our wardrobes, home decorations, and more. Before you
start the showing process, ensure that everything is put in its
proper place and is organized as buyers are often very meticulous
when it comes to details; as they should be. - Understand the Market – While utilizing the
most seasoned agent who fits your personality and goals the best is
important as they will be able to represent both you and your home
to the best of its ability, it is important that you also
understand how to navigate through the industry. What comparables
are around, what has lasted too long on the market, have there been
any recent price changes in the area? All of these and more are
questions that you should ponder and hence become a master of. Only
then can you and your agent come to an appropriate asking price
destined to get your property to the closing table to the most
qualified buyer and in the least amount of time; this is the
essence of the Sothebys brand.
More Information: Boston.com