As we enter the back-to-school season here in Atlanta, some of the frenzy of the peak home buying and selling season will begin to wane. For the most part, all those families that wanted to move their households before the start of school are nestled into their new homes. But as the housing market activity moderates a bit, it’s likely to offer both sellers and buyers some added opportunities and advantages.
For buyers
You will face less competition for available homes and may even have more negotiating room. Here are some additional reasons why back-to-school is a great time to be a house hunter:
>>Homes that have languished on the market may have increasingly motivated sellers.
>>Prices tend to come down a bit in the Fall for homes that have been on the market for a while.
>>With fewer buyers in the market, inventory should re-balance somewhat.
>>Competition for purchases should not be as fierce as we’ve seen over the spring and summer.
For Sellers
Fall is also a great time for sellers to list their homes! Inventory, thus competition tends to be lower and the buyers that are in the fall marketplace are generally more serious. Here are some additional reasons why selling in the Fall is optimal:
>>Companies that are helping employees relocate usually want the purchase done before the end of the year, thus we often see quick closings on these types of sales.
>>It’s a great time of year to photograph and video your home before all the lovely, colorful foliage goes into hibernation.
>>Shoot for a closing in December, which is historically the best month for closings in the off-season (September to May).
>>It’s reported that appraisals tend to be more favorable in the Fall and easier to find as compared to the busy summer market.
Also keep in mind the latest data from the Atlanta Board of Realtors revealed home sales in June moderated somewhat, yet the number of sales in the five-county metro area are higher than any other year in Atlanta’s history. Home shoppers continue to demand greater inventory, even as sales prices have risen. All-in-all, it’s a great time to be a home buyer and seller in Atlanta! I’d love help you take advantage of the unique opportunities the Fall brings, so give me a call. I look forward to speaking with you!
~Jess
