People often ask me when the best time to sell is. The honest answer is that it depends, but there are a few things worth thinking about.
Look at buyer activity, not just the month
The best time to sell is usually when plenty of buyers are looking and there aren't many similar homes for sale. That's often called a seller's market, because buyers compete for fewer properties. I can tell you what's happening in your part of Invercargill right now.
Seasons in Southland
Spring and early summer tend to be popular. Gardens look their best, the days are longer for viewings and families often want to be settled before the school year. That said, winter can work well too. Buyers out in the cold months are usually serious, and a warm, dry, well-presented home really stands out.
Your own timing matters most
- Have you found somewhere to move to, and is your finance sorted?
- Do you need to sell before you can buy, or the other way around?
- Are there jobs to finish before buyers come through?
- Is there a life event with a date, such as a job, a baby or retirement?
Quick tip
An appraisal a few months before you plan to list lets you choose your moment, instead of rushing.
A simple way to decide
Start with when you want to be in your next place, then work backwards. Allow time to prepare the house, market it and settle. If you'd like help mapping that out, a free appraisal is a good place to start.
This is general information only, not legal, financial or building advice. Rules and market conditions change, so check the details with your lawyer, lender or the relevant authority before making decisions.
