Cindy's Blog

Hopefully we're all more or less recovered from the turkey, dressing, pie, and everything else (a special shout out here to my second cousin Sara, who made such awesome brownies I'm ashamed to say I ate at least 3- yikes!!). Although this is typically a slow real estate weekend, we are seeing some activity this weekend, so far. We are still definitely slower, but rates are lower again, and I've seen people able to get 5.25%, which is, in any market, terrific! There are lots of deals out there to be had, still, particularly if the sellers are motivated, which many of them are now.

Rather than focusing on the market update, which is relatively unchanged, I wanted to take this first official post of the Christmas season, and use it to give some pointers for those of you who have, or will have, your homes on the market during this season.

Don't think that when you list your home in the holiday season you have to take all of the joy out of it, and that your holiday is going to be dry and dull, but there are a few things to remember-

1) If your house normally gets decorated like this-  this is probably the year to save a bit on your electrical bill and take a bit of a break. A few lights are just fine, and quite festive, but really, moderation is the key to everything if you want to sell your home.

2) As you do your shopping, make sure that you don't leave all of the gifts out and in plain view (or even in a closet, attic, or basement) if you're having an open house or lots of showings are planned. As agents, we take every precaution to ensure that we stay with our clienets, etc., but it never makes sense to press your luck. If your child's prize video game is in the coat closet by the door, remove it before you have an open house!

3) Make sure that if you're doing alot of baking, have festive smelling cinammon on the stove or candles burning, and you have a showing, be extra vigilant if you are running out for a last minute showing, etc.

4) As with the outside of your home, be moderate in your holiday decor on the interior as well. Aside from the fact that it may not be to everyone's taste or religion, a huge tree can really make your living room seem much smaller than it normally does...again, moderation is the key.

5) Remember, while the holidays are a slower time of the year, there are people looking and it really does behoove you to go ahead and let agents who call come on and show it, even though it is not always convenient. The fact of the matter is that most people looking during the holidays are serious purchasers, not people thinking they might buy in 2 years.

6) Unfortunately, even though it's the holidays, if you're doing alot of baking or cooking, try to keep your counters clean and clear of dishes and ingredients (especially dirty dishes!). Again, if you don't have anywhere to store your extra flour, etc.- it's only going to show off the fact that the prospective purchasers won't either.

Despite the fact that things are slower now, between the economy and the time of year, remember, it only takes one!