You hear it all the time from concerned friends who swear they’ve been through this before: “Don’t even try selling your home during the Winter. No one’s looking.” That prevailing notion has kept many homeowners from trying the Market during a time of year that’s just as good for real estate transactions as any other season.


The myth that homes don’t sell in the winter is easily dispelled by looking at your local newspaper. The long columns of property transactions in your region alone should be a good indication that home sales don’t slacken as the holidays approach.

Many people assume that the shorter days and the Holiday Season shuffle keep potential home buyers far too busy to check out homes on the market. Others are far more confident listing their homes in the spring or summer, when they feel that young families may be looking to move without disrupting their children’s school years.

During the winter months, however, the market is full of serious buyers. Many of these are retired homeowners, making up a bigger portion of the homebuying market than ever before as more of these retirees are looking to move into smaller houses. Low interest rates on mortgages are also heating up sales this winter, and if you wait you may not be able to take advantage of the same buyer confidence as interest rates rise.

In fact, wintry weather can be harnessed by a property owner to make your home even more attractive to potential buyers. For starters, make sure that your driveway and front walks are cleanly shoveled. The snow will provide a perfect rustic framing to your home’s facade. If you have a family, build a snowman, igloo or some other fun project that will be inviting to visitors. Make sure that you don’t go overboard, however, as you want your guests to see the natural splendor of your home and not a lot of decorations.

There is no bad season for home sales. Throughout New York State and Arizona, HUNT Real Estate ERA is the name to trust when you’re ready to put your house on the market. We’ll give you the confidence necessary to navigate the current real estate market with ease!

Peter F. Hunt