The winter (and holiday) season is quickly approaching and if you are a seller, there are few things to consider during this time of year.

As a seller, if your property is vacant and not checked very often, it would be a good idea to have the property “winterized”.  I would suggest that you contact a professional in the area where the property is located and contract them to do the services for you.  A few items to look into include:  cover outside faucets with insulation, turn off water at the main valve, turn off propane or natural gas, keep the heat on low if possible, put anti-freeze in the toilet bowl and tank.  It is important to protect your heating and water systems in the cold weather.  Again, I would suggest having a professional take care of the property for you.

Also as a seller, the question is asked during this time of year whether or not to take your property off the market for a couple of months.  There are pros and cons – if your home is not on the market it can’t be sold.  However, the holiday season is busy enough to try and keep your home “show ready” too.  Work with your realtor and they can assist you during this hectic time and keep your home on the market and you more stress free.  There may be serious buyers who have time off during the holidays and will use this time to look for their next home.

Here are a few thoughts for buyers.  Just because it’s cold outside and with the holidays, there are a lot of things going on, it still may be the perfect time to find your next home.  Property inventories remain high and, keep in mind, it will be easier to look now and negotiations may be less stressful.  Interest rates remain low and for many buyers, a monthly house payment may be very close to monthly rent rates.

I’d like to close this blog by wishing all of you – family, friends, current clients and future clients a safe and wonderful holiday season.  Take time to reflect with family and friends.  Also, remember those whose holiday season may not be as bright this year and if there is something we can do to help make it more enjoyable for them.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Janeen