With children back in school, families home from vacation and everyone back into routine the fall market is the second hottest market of the year. People are more relaxed without the chaos of summer, and are ready to invest more time into their home. There are multiple benefits for home buyers, as well as home sellers who participate in the fall market. If you are thinking of making a move, now may be the time.
For sellers, it is a good time for you to list your home now because there is less inventory out there, making your home more desirable. Buyers understand that the inventory is lower, causing them to not be so selective. They tend to be more open minded when looking for a home. Although the fall market offers less buyers than the spring, the buyers also tend to be more serious. Most of these buyers want to be in their new homes by the holidays. They also want to take advantage that the weather is still pleasant. No one wants to move in inclement weather. It can be very difficult. The fall season trend ends around Thanksgiving. Some helpful hints for listing your home now are:
1. Plant fall flowers creating enticing curb appeal
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2. Be sure that gutters are draining correctly and are clear of debris and leaves
3. Be sure that lawn and yard are raked neatly. Cut dead flowers and branches.
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4. Have a good quality mat by the front door for potential buyers to wipe their feet
5. Make sure your fireplace is clean
6. As always be sure to remove all clutter. Homes show a million times better when they are clutter free.
The fall market offers many advantages for buyers, as well. Buyers can still get tax benefits for 2013 if they purchase a home by December 31st. In some cases they may be eligible for both mortgage interest and property tax deductions. Furthermore, there is still some inventory left from the spring, and sellers may be willing to negotiate more, so they can sell and move on with their own lives as quickly as possible. Another positive is that interest rates have not risen over the last few weeks, as they have been over the past few months. Many do not realize that even .5% could change your payment by hundreds of dollars. Some helpful hints for buyers are:
1. Make sure to have an updated pre approval letter so if you find a home you would like to put an offer on, there are no hold ups.
2. Find an agent that you feel will work hard for you and understands what you are looking for.
3. Be 100% comfortable in any offers you place. Remember, most mortgages are for 30 years.
4. Choose an inspector and attorney who you would like to use, should you get an accepted offer, you are ready to proceed.
Thank you and good luck with your Fall Market, whether buying or selling, make sure the decisions and plan works for you! Information and advice provided by Alicia Albano, Licensed Salesperson with Houlihan Lawrence Mahopac/Yorktown Office. Contact me with any questions at 914.447.6569 or please visit my website for helpful information www.AliciaAlbano.com or www.MahopacLakeFront.com
