The Pros and Cons of Selling Your Home Over the Festive Season
With Leigh Martinuzzi – MPG
The festive season, stretching from December through January, is traditionally a time for holidays, celebrations, and time spent with loved ones. But is it also a good time to put your property on the market? If you’re a homeowner on the Sunshine Coast considering selling, you might be weighing the pros and cons of listing your home during this period. Let’s dive into the key considerations to help you decide whether now is the right time to sell.
The Pros of Selling Over the Festive Season
1. Motivated Buyers
The buyers out there during the Christmas and New Year period are usually serious. Most people are busy enjoying the holiday season, so if they’re house hunting, it’s because they’re motivated to make a move quickly. These buyers may have time off work, allowing them to inspect properties and make decisions faster than at other times of the year.
2. Less Competition
While many sellers hesitate to list their homes over Christmas, this can work to your advantage. With fewer properties on the market, your home can stand out more easily. In the Sunshine Coast hinterland, where properties are often sought after for their lifestyle appeal, this could mean a quicker sale at a great price.
3. The Sunshine Coast Summer Appeal
Let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like the Sunshine Coast in summer. This is when the region shines brightest, attracting visitors from all over Australia. The warm weather, outdoor lifestyle, and holiday vibes can create a strong emotional pull for buyers. If your property boasts features like a pool, large outdoor entertaining area, or scenic views, showcasing it during this season can be a huge advantage.
4. End of Year Resolutions
People often use the new year to reflect on their lives and make plans for the future. This can include buying a new home, particularly for families who want to be settled before the next school year starts. This seasonal urgency can drive quicker decisions and smoother negotiations.
The Cons of Selling Over the Festive Season
1. Disrupted Plans and Limited Availability
Selling your home requires preparation and availability for inspections. The festive season is a busy time with holidays, social events, and family gatherings, which might make it harder to be flexible with showings. You may also want to relax during this period instead of having your home on display.
2. Potentially Fewer Buyers Looking
While those who are searching over Christmas are typically motivated, the overall pool of buyers is smaller. Many potential buyers are preoccupied with the holidays or traveling, which can limit the number of enquiries and inspections. However, the Sunshine Coast often sees a surge of tourists during this time, some of whom may consider making a more permanent move.
3. Slower Administrative Processes
The festive season can be slower for banks, solicitors, and conveyancers, as many close or operate with reduced staff. This can lead to delays in the settlement process. If you’re keen on a quick sale, it’s important to keep this in mind and adjust your expectations accordingly. At MPG we operate right across the Christmas period however many of the other services may be less available.
Tips for Selling During the Festive Season
If you decide that selling over Christmas is the right move for you, here are a few tips to make the process smoother:
•Decorate Tastefully: A few festive touches can add warmth and charm but avoid going overboard. Keep it simple so that buyers can still see the property’s potential.
•Focus on Curb Appeal: With summer in full swing, make sure your gardens are well-maintained, and outdoor areas are looking their best. A clean, inviting entrance can make a great first impression.
•Be Flexible with Inspections: While the holiday season can be busy, being accommodating with inspection times can help you capture those serious buyers who are actively searching.
•Market Smartly: Use digital marketing to reach potential buyers who may be traveling or spending time online during the break. Targeting social media ads can be an effective way to attract interest even if foot traffic is lower.
Is Selling Now Right for You?
Ultimately, deciding whether to sell your home during the festive season comes down to your personal circumstances and what you hope to achieve. For the right property in the right location—like many homes here on the Sunshine Coast—the summer months can be a prime time to attract lifestyle-driven buyers. However, if you’re hoping for a more traditional sales process with a larger pool of buyers, waiting until February could be a better option.
If you’re considering selling and want to discuss your options, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Martinuzzi Property Group, we’re here to guide you through every step of your property journey, ensuring the process is as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Here’s to making your next move a successful one!
“Helping more residents on the Sunshine Coast live more fully, find more meaning, and experience more joy on their next property journey.”
