Conventional wisdom may say that spring is the best time to put your house on the market, but there are advantages to selling in the fall, too. In fact, with fewer homes on the market, your home may get even more attention from potential home buyers this time of year.
While families may prefer to move in the spring and summer, before the start of the school year, Millennials and seniors are more open to moving in the fall before the holiday season and cold weather approach.
What millennials want
Research from the National Association of Home Builders indicates that most millennials want to live in a single-family home in the suburbs. In terms of home features, they’re especially interested in a separate laundry room, Energy Star certifications, and storage – including a linen closet, walk-in pantry, and garage storage.
Millennials are conducting their home searches online, so be sure your listing pictures tell your home’s story in the best possible light. Include separate pictures of the features that appeal to millennials, such as your laundry room and linen closet.
Encourage empty-nesters
to take a look
On the other hand, empty-nesters who may be looking to downsize will be attracted to homes with flexible spaces to accommodate their changing lifestyles. For example, you can stage a bedroom as an office or multimedia room.
Increasingly, empty-nesters are returning to the cities, leaving behind the larger house, yard maintenance, and lengthy commute to downtown offices. More of these buyers are looking for a townhouse or condo located near shopping, dining and entertainment.
For more information, contact the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga at info@hbagc.net or visit nahb.org/forconsumers.
Terry Greene is the executive officer of the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga (HBAGC). In that role, he’s responsible for the day-to-day management and operation of HBAGC and its 400-plus members.