No matter what that soothsaying groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, has to say for himself on Gobbler’s Knob, the real estate market pays little attention. Spring seems to come earlier and earlier every year with sellers eager to get ahead of the competition.

Possibly one of the questions I get asked most often is, “When is the ideal time to list a home?”

Although there are positive reasons for listing at most times of year, spring is traditionally when the real estate market blossoms. Summer is the popular time for moving, especially for families with school aged children, which makes spring the hottest time to get your home onto the market.

According to the Metropolitan Regional Information Service (MRIS), statistics for the past 5 years show home sales begin to climb dramatically as early as March, and peak in June. With the exception of 2010, August has still shown some strong figures, with the trend beginning to drop off significantly by September and wane towards the end of the year.

Of course, be cognizant of the fact that most people planning to sell their homes are also aware of these statistics, so the stock of homes for sale increases in accordance. So how do you stay ahead of the competition without breaking the bank?

  • Show your home to its best advantage – Make all those little repairs, touch up the settlement cracks, put on a fresh coat of paint (go neutral), clean… clean… clean, and above all, de-clutter.
  • Maximize your curb appeal – put fresh mulch on your beds and add some color with spring bulbs.
  • Price correctly from the outset – Listing too high could cause you to miss the spring market. It may also help to sell your competitor’s home by making it look like a great deal.
  • When the trees begin to blossom, the house hunters come out in force, enthused by the promise of spring. What better time to let the wonderful amenities of our community help to promote your home? Remember that people are not just buying a home, but a lifestyle.

    This content is not the product of the National Association of REALTORS®, and may not reflect NAR's viewpoint or position on these topics and NAR does not verify the accuracy of the content.