Market Timers vs. “Full Steam Ahead”
I’ve got my own theory why listing agents — and their clients — are so flummoxed by July 4 this year: it’s the first time it’s fallen on a Wednesday in six years, and only the third Wednesday July 4 in over two decades.
Half the Realtors selling real estate weren’t even in the business six years ago!
So, the correct answer to, “Which weekend is going to be slower, the one before or the one after the 4th?,” is “both.”
Timing Decision
If you’re a Seller about to list your home, that leaves you with a decided timing issue: race to get on well ahead of the holiday, or sit tight until (at least) a couple days after.
I think I can safely say Realtors divide into two camps on this one — those who consult the calendar, and those whose attitude is “full steam ahead.”
Of course, the call is ultimately up to the owner, who’s likely up to their neck in “de-cluttering,” cleaning, and other prep.
When to List
My advice would be to base the decision on the house’s readiness (or lack thereof), as well as the price point.
So, if the house was “just about there” and at a price point with little competition — or perhaps even a shortage of inventory — I’d be in the “go for it” camp.
If one or both of those factors was missing . . . I’d finish prepping, and hit the market with guns blazing sometime the week of July 9 (no more military metaphors, promise).
The tie-breaker: if the homeowner was planning to be on vacation the week of the 4th, I’d try to be on the market before leaving town.
My logic: showings are a lot less hassle when you’re not around.
See also, “Pre-Holiday Pluses & Minuses for Home Buyers.”
