Was that a tree analogy in the headline? Yep, this is Washington after all. Real estate is more evergreen then deciduous. It does not drop its leaves and go dormant for the winter like many of the beautiful deciduous trees in the area. Rather, real estate is like an evergreen, it remains green and lush all year long. People continue to buy and sell homes year round. The volume of activity slows down but the sales remain just a little below the summer peak. There is roughly a 25% seasonal curve here in Southwest Washington and the Metro Portland, OR area.
I have found that the people who are out looking in the cooler months are "the real deal". These folks could be inside sipping on a latte by the fire, yet they are out in the cold rain, snow, and sleet to look at houses. They are serious buyers. Sellers looking to get a leg up on the spring market would do well to keep their home listed through the winter.
Should you decide to list in the winter, be certain keep your walkways free of leaves, debris and snow. When showing the home a warm fire in the fireplace if you have one adds to the charm. No fireplace? Light a candle with a vanilla or smokey aroma.
Winter can be a good time to sell your home and is can be equally favorable for buyers. Don't let the clouds and cool air discourage you. Real estate is like an evergreen tree, it doesn't hibernate in the winter.
