Real Estate Matters
By Elisa Jo Eagan
Most real estate experts would tell you that spring and early summer is peak season for buying and selling a home, and statistics show that they are right. But that doesn’t mean that the rest of the summer is wasted time for people looking to buy or sell.
August in particular can be a productive month, as people are looking to move before the new school year starts, move before the less-than-desirable winter months come, and may be more anxious to sell.
So, if August is still prime time for real estate, how can you make the most of the month to ensure your new home dreams become a reality by the fall? Try some of these tips:
For Sellers
Beat the Heat
Showing your home in the heat of summer might sound like an uphill battle, but if you turn your home into an oasis from the scorching sun, buyers will find your home memorable. Consider keeping your home even cooler than usual and perhaps offer cold bottles of water as refreshment for the buyers looking at your home to keep them cool. They will appreciate the gesture.
Spruce up the Exterior
By August your lawn might start to look a little dull and brown from the heat of the summer – not ideal for showing the potential of your space. Try your best to keep the exterior of your home as presentable and green as possible to attract more buyers.
Fun in the Sun
If you have particularly desirable areas of your home for summer, especially a spacious porch, pool or a hot tub, a luxurious deck, etc. make these features the highlight of your listing. There is no other time of the year that these features will look more appealing, so you might as well show them off.
For Buyers
The Timing is Right
Since spring is technically real estate’s busy season, sellers that list or have their homes on the market for sale in August are ready to sell and to negotiate a purchase while the weather is still good.
Get Ahead of the Competition
You will likely be competing among a large pool of buyers in the summer, and that means that you will need to be vigilant for the best deals, willing to compromise, and stay on top of the market. Things can change quickly in real estate, and especially late in the summer, so it is important to keep an eye on the changes in the market that could affect your purchase.
Walk the Neighborhood
Take advantage of the nice weather and explore your prospective neighborhood. There is no better way to get an idea of the neighbors you will have, special features, and the quality of the area, than by walking around and exploring for yourself.
Until next time… keep cool and happy house hunting.
For real estate information and advice, contact Elisa Jo Eagan, the “Real Estate Godmother,” at 609-703-0432. Learn more at www.TheRealEstateGodmother.com.
For More Real Estate Questions, Information and Advice Contact Elisa Jo Eagan “The Real Estate Godmother” (609)703-0432 and Remember…”There’s No Place Like Owning Your Own Home!”
