Selling a house is not just about brick and mortar; it's about timing, market awareness, and understanding the ebb and flow of the housing market. Many homeowners ponder the golden question: when is the absolute best time to sell a house? According to ATTOM, you can sell your home for thousands of dollars more in the spring and early summer than in the winter.
Best Months to Sell
When we delve into the heart of the matter, the historical trends from 2011 to 2021 provide illuminating insights. Here's a glance at the most lucrative months for selling a house, based on median sales price, seller premiums, and other essential metrics.
| Month | Median Sales Price | Median AVM | Seller Premium |
| May | $208,273 | $185,000 | 12.6% |
| June | $217,703 | $196,702 | 10.7% |
| July | $219,900 | $200,000 | 10.0% |
| April | $202,000 | $185,000 | 9.2% |
| March | $197,500 | $181,283 | 8.9% |
| September | $215,000 | $199,214 | 7.9% |
| February | $188,500 | $174,666 | 7.9% |
| February | $188,500 | $174,666 | 7.9% |
| August | $215,700 | $200,000 | 7.9% |
| December | $213,564 | $201,000 | 6.3% |
| January | $187,000 | $176,040 | 6.2% |
| November | $213,300 | $201,000 | 6.1% |
| October | $210,375 | $200,000 | 5.2% |
Seasons and selling your home
Fall house sales
While autumn carries with it a nostalgia of back-to-school memories, it can be an opportune time for home sales. With the holiday season approaching, buyers shopping for homes during this period are often serious buyers, keen on settling in before winter sets in.
Winter house sales
Conventional wisdom may advise against selling during the chillier winter months, but don't be too hasty to dismiss it. Winter buyers tend to be more serious, and with less competition in the market, sellers might find an opportunity to get their asking price.
Spring house sales
Spring breathes new life into the housing market. The warmer weather, combined with tax refunds and the upcoming summer breaks, motivates many buyers. Early spring, especially, tends to see a surge in buyer demand.
Summer house sales
Late spring leading into the early summer months is historically the peak season for selling a house. With school breaks and warmer weather, many families find this period ideal for house hunting. However, selling later in summer, closer to when school starts, can be slower.
Understanding peak market dynamics
Buyer’s market selling
A buyer's market implies there are more homes available than there are buyers. Selling in such a market can be challenging, but with the right real estate agent and correct pricing, one can still secure a successful sale.
Seller’s market selling
A seller's market is when there are many buyers but fewer homes available. This is the best time to sell, as homes often sell quickly and sometimes even above their market value.
Selling as mortgage rates decline
When mortgage rates drop, there's usually a spike in buyer demand. More potential buyers can afford loans, making it a prime time for sellers to tap into the increased buyer pool.
Deciding the right time for your situation
Selling for a lifestyle switch
Life is a tapestry of evolutions, and sometimes, we reach moments where the walls around us no longer reflect our inner growth. Whether it's the call for a smaller, more intimate space, or the yearning for new horizons and a different view out of the window, selling becomes the bridge to the next chapter of your story.
Post-repairs selling
Your home has been a testament to your journey, bearing witness to both your challenges and triumphs. After the careful love and attention you've poured into every nook and cranny, patching up the scars and enhancing its strengths, there emerges a renewed energy, ready to be passed on. Every fixed tile, every fresh coat of paint is a step closer to its new beginning. When a home is at its best, it speaks to potential buyers, making them see not just a house, but a haven.
Selling when finances are in order
Selling a home when your finances are in order is a strategic advantage. With a strong financial position, you can make necessary repairs and upgrades to maximize your property's value, enticing potential buyers. Additionally, you have the flexibility to wait for the right offer rather than settling for less. A healthy financial profile allows for a smoother transition, whether you're upgrading to a larger home, downsizing, or relocating. Plus, you can navigate the sale process with confidence, knowing you have the resources to cover any unexpected costs. In the end, sound financial planning sets the stage for a successful home sale and a promising future.
About Roni Fulton
With her expertise in real estate, Roni Fulton transforms the dream of beachfront living into a reality for her clients. Her focus is on delivering exceptional service, and she's committed to going above and beyond to ensure a seamless and efficient home-buying experience. If you're exploring the idea of buying or selling a property, or if you have any curiosities about the Florida real estate landscape, contact Roni Fulton today.
*Header photo courtesy of Roni Fulton
