When I was involved with New Home Sales and Marketing we would literally sell 60% of our total annual new home sales by March 31. I remember what a revelation it was when we realized this. If the percentage sales numbers and date was accurate did it not also stand to reason that we should be concentrating 60% of our marketing budget and efforts to that same time period? Of course it did! The same theory holds true to the real estate re-sale market.
While I can understand this phenomenon in northern climates where winter's icy fingers keep prospective buyers at home in their cozy confines - but why do states like Florida and other southern climates experience the same strong "Spring" market? I personally think it comes down to a state of mind. Spring is like being re-born, a time of year when change is not only welcomed, it's embraced. Not to mention the fact that Realtors are just getting home from their lengthy winter vacations to their southern condos (and now they have to pay for it). The same principal holds true for home owners that decide to sell their own home. For Sale by Owner listings see the same incremental increases in Spring as conventional Realtor listed properties. More importantly "demand" goes up - buyers also get into the "Spring has Sprung" mode and start their search for that new home.
That all said - it's important to "prepare" your home for this Spring Real Estate "rush". Use the winter months to start and complete any interior renovations. There are many projects that can be completed over the winter months. Both Kitchen and bathroom remodeling is ideally suited to the winter months. You can install new flooring, new light fixtures, towel bars, door knobs, kitchen pulls etc. You can also do interior painting or wallpapering (remember - always stay neutral). Obviously, the more work you can do yourself the more equity you add to your home. I find it very helpful to start one project at a time - and don't start a new project until it is done. This approach ensures that you "add" equity to your home.
It also provides a sense of accomplishment that can carry you to and through the next project at hand. I have seen many homes where projects are started and just left incomplete, they would have been better off just leaving it alone - you certainly don't add value - in fact more often then not, incomplete projects actaully de-value your property. If you don't feel comfortable taking on a project - don't - hire a professional. Sometimes it's just as rewarding to stand back and say "I paid for that".
The important thing is to get your home ready for Spring Real Estate season, but don't feel you absolutely have to list it if it isn't ready. You only get one chance to make a first impression - so make sure it's ready. Better to get to the party late then arrive not looking your best.
Ready, Get Set - GO!
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