Winter is Coming.... What Should You Know?

     In the last week we have all experienced the rapid changing of seasons.  The temperatures dropped, snow fell, and I spent every night by my fireplace keeping warm.  With this shift in temperature, many of you may be wondering what is going to be changing in the Real Estate Market as well?

Buying?

     If you're looking to buy in the upcoming months, the above infographic gives you a small glimpse into the current real estate trends.  Within the Denver area, the Median Sold price for a home in September was $405,000.  There were 6,078 new listings and they averaged 22 days on the market.
     Wondering where to buy?  5280 Magazine compiled a list of the top 25 neighborhoods to live in in Denver currently.  It was based on a number of factors such as school rankings, crime data, proximity to open space, and many others.  The top five of these came out to be, in order: Congress Park, Hilltop, University Park, Hampden South, and Indian Creek.
     Additionally, the market has slowed in the last month from the aggressive climb it has been making over the year.  It is unclear yet whether this is simply the normal Winter pace, or the Denver market is  seeing a cool down.  That said, we are still in a seller's market.  Depending on the price range you are looking in, be prepared to write a competitive offer and pull the trigger quickly on a property you are interested in.

Selling?

     If you are looking to sell your house, it is important to know that the colder months often see a cool down in the market as well.  This does not mean you won't get your money's worth for your house, it just might sit on the market a little longer and you amy not see the bidding war we've become used to this year.
     This is due to a number of factors.  One being, quite simply, that in winter the cold weather keeps more people inside.  However, more importantly, the snow and the dying foliage tend to make houses look less appealing.  So, if you are planning on listing, here are a few tips to make your house look like an ideal winter listing.

Warm and Cozy is the key to making your home look more appealing in the winter time.  Have a fire lit, maybe light some fall scented candles, and turn on your lights.  You want to make your home look like a winter haven so that potential buyers can see themselves spending the rest of the cold months there.

 Lighting, lighting, lighting is the mantra of winter home sales.  When you are showing your home in the winter, you'll have to splurge on the energy bill a bit.  Keeping your house lit makes it look warmer on the inside and gives it better curb appeal as well.

Holiday neutral is how best to represent your house to new buyers.  While we all love to decorate our house for the winter holidays, some prospective buyers may not celebrate those holidays.  It is important to represent you house in a way that anyone could picture it as their future home.

Keep it neat.  In the fall and winter, curb appeal is just as important for driving in potential buyers.  Be sure your yard is neat and tidy with all leaves swept.  If it snows, be sure you take the time to adequately shovel walks, driveways, and sidewalks. 

     While all of these helpful tips can aid you in your home selling and buying this winter, it is never an exact science.  That's why it is important to have a realtor you trust guiding you through the process.  Contact us today with any real estate questions your may have.