A lot of people ask us if they should have their homes on the market during the holiday season between Thanksgiving and New Years. We answer them this way: sure there are fewer folks out looking during this time of year, but the ones that are looking are very serious buyers. This is the Washington, D.C./Northern Virginia market. There are constantly people moving in and moving out. We've put homes on the market on Christmas eve and sat in settlement on New Year's eve, so we know it's true. Another plus to this time of year is that a lot of frustrated sellers take their homes off the market during the holidays, so the inventory of homes usually declines. Lower inventory means less competition. Our market is all about 3 things, and they are not location, location, location. In Northern Virginia just about everywhere is a good location for someone. So, it becomes all about price, condition, and current inventory.

Now, all that being said, there are a few people that should not be on at this time of year. That would include homeowners that are overpriced or want to "test the market". Also, homes in bad condition or in need of cosmetic repairs should do the work before entering the market. An unappealing home not only turns off the buyer, but ensures that the agent showing it will not come back with future clients.

I hope that helps if you're thinking of selling right now in this market.