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Why Now Is Not the Time To Take Your House Off the Market

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October 9, 2024

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Has your house been sitting on the market longer than expected? It’s understandable if you’re feeling frustrated and considering pulling the listing until  2025. However, delaying your sale could actually cost you more in the long run. While many sellers are choosing to withdraw their homes from the market, serious buyers are still out there, motivated by improving mortgage rates and eager to make a purchase before the end of the year. Keeping your home listed now can help you attract these highly motivated buyers, making it a smarter decision to stay the course rather than waiting.

Other Sellers Are Pulling Back. Should You Hold Off Too?

Recent Altos Research data shows an increasing number of home sellers are withdrawing their listings from the market, a trend that’s becoming more common during this time of year. This seasonal shift is typical as inventory levels tend to dip heading into fall, with many sellers opting to hold off until the new year to relist their homes. While it may seem like a good strategy, pulling your listing could mean missing out on serious buyers who are still actively looking to make a purchase.

The housing market typically experiences seasonal fluctuations, with inventory levels often dropping as fall approaches. Many sellers choose to delay listing their homes until the new year, contributing to the decrease in available properties during this time. This seasonal trend impacts market dynamics, potentially reducing competition for sellers who keep their homes listed through the fall, while also giving serious buyers fewer options to choose from. As Mike Simonsen, Founder of Altos Researchexplains:

“. . . we’re seeing a more normal seasonal pattern now with inventory beginning to decline. We’re also seeing more home sellers withdrawing their listings to try again next year. In fact, for every two sales, there is another listing withdrawn from the market.”

But is that a smart move? While it might seem like a good idea to pull your listing too, here’s why that approach may not pay off this year.

Today’s Buyers Are Serious and Ready To Act

The top reason to continue selling your home right now is that the buyers currently in the market are serious about making a purchase. During this time of year, these buyers are often highly motivated to find a home quickly, especially with improving mortgage rates. By keeping your property listed, you’re more likely to attract these eager buyers who are ready to close a deal before the end of the year.

Many potential buyers have been waiting on the sidelines for housing affordability to improve. Now that mortgage rates have dipped from their recent highs, they’re ready to take action. Rising mortgage applications indicate that these buyers are preparing to re-enter the market. Since they’ve delayed their home search for some time, they’re even more eager to make a purchase compared to typical buyers at this time of year, creating a prime opportunity for sellers to attract serious offers.

These buyers are not just browsing; they are highly motivated to make a quick purchase. This eagerness to act fast makes them the ideal buyers for sellers looking to close a deal efficiently. Engaging with serious buyers like these can lead to smoother transactions and quicker sales, benefiting both parties involved. As Freddie Mac says:

“During the fall months, serious homebuyers are eager to settle in to a new home before the holiday season ramps up and the winter weather begins.”

Keeping your home on the market significantly increases your chances of attracting buyers who are genuinely ready to make a purchase. By maintaining your listing, you position yourself to engage with motivated buyers actively seeking homes, enhancing your opportunities for a successful sale. In today’s market, where serious buyers are eager to act, staying listed can lead to faster transactions and potentially higher offers.

Bottom Line

While some sellers are opting to remove their homes from the market, this may not be the best decision in the current climate. With motivated buyers eager to make a purchase, now is an excellent time to sell your house. By staying listed, you can capitalize on the demand and ensure a successful sale. Let’s connect to develop a tailored strategy that maximizes your selling potential and helps you achieve your goals in today’s market.

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