Yes, the time between November and December does tend to be slower for real estate sales. That being said, serious buyers are looking regardless of the time of year. You are more likely to get a buyer that wants or needs to purchase a property as opposed to "just looking" in this time frame. Make sure the house is priced right and looks its' best in relation to comparable properties for sale.

Hi

I don't think there is any rule of thumb these days that applies to the old thinking that the winter is a bad time to sell a house. Fact of the matter is that, in this market, if the house is in good shape and priced right, it will move.

As far as the tax credit for would be buyers, that has been extended. Please let me know if I may help. I'm in East Brunswick

David Levine
Broker Associate
Davis Realtors

Sue,

Hoping my answer helped you. IF you are interested in a market analysis or just having some more questions answered, feel free to contact me.

Mary Petti
Prudential NJ Properties
908-675-0167

The $8,000 tax credit was extended to April 30, 2010. So, it is a good time to put your house on the market. There are first time buyers looking forward to take advantage of that $8,000 tax credit.

Sue,

By the way, since this was posted in the "Home Selling in East Brunswick" forum, I can certainly help you if you live in EB.

Mary :)

Sue,

Yes things do slow down a bit during the holiday/winter season, BUT there are several factors that also come into play as to whether the upcoming months will affect your ability to sell your house. (In no particular order after #1)

1. the location of the home (township-some areas are still feeling the economic crunch more than others and houses are lingering for a very, very long time)

2. the price range of the home (median priced houses sell faster than the upper ranges even in the "fast" months)

3. the condition of the house

4. the fact that the $8000 tax credit has been extended. The new credit gives first time buyers up till the end of April to have a fully executed contract and they must close by June 30, 2010. It also increased the personal income levels to $125K for a singe income household and $225K for a dual income household, thereby increasing the buying power of those first time buyers.

5) if you are realistic in pricing your home correctly right out of the gate. (Houses that are overpriced and have several price reductions along the way, remain on the market a long time and invariably get LESS than they should have)

6) the local school systems

7) the ability to access major highways and/or public transportation to major employment hubs (like NYC/Princeton/Philly etc)

First and foremost, you need to speak to a Realtor who can access the information you need and present it to you to help make the decision.
That being said, where do you live in NJ? If its in an area I can service, (All of Middlesex county, Lower union County, Upper Monmouth County and Somerset County) I would be happy to provide you with a comprehensive no obligation market analysis and local statistics. If I cannot do it for you, with your permission, I can recommend another agent in your area who can do it for you.

Hope that helps. Just mouse over my name, next to my picture, and click "contact me" .

Regards,
Mary Petti

Have a agent pull market trends for past 3 years of homes sold during time period. It depends on if area is on market only 5 months out year April - August OR on market 365 days out year.

Most areas where schools play a huge factor not on market.

Yes you are corret during Holidays not many families are searching for homes interested in trying handle personal obligations.

National Featured Realtor and Consultant, Texas Mortgage Loan Officer, Credit Repair Lecturer
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Lynn911

http://www.lynn911.com

Sue,

Regardless of the anticipated decrease in real estate activity based on local trends....the reality is that people will still be both looking at and considering purchasing property....and yes, some will decide to buy during this slow period.

Our question is, what is the benefit of not putting your home on the market during this time? From our perspective, if it's listed, it stands a chance of selling.....conversely, if it is not listed there is none.

Hi Sue,

My recommendation to you is contact an agent who is working in that area.
Try to interview at least 3 agents in the location get an idea what CMA
that they will provide you, and also the marketing program that the
have.....