Arlington Real Estate, Selling Around the Holidays

Is It a Bad Idea to Sell Around Halloween and the Holidays in Arlington?

Is it a bad idea to list a home near Halloween or the holidays? Tips for showings, photos, and timing in Arlington, VA.

Is it a bad idea to list my Arlington home near Halloween or the holidays? Not necessarily. Fewer homes are for sale, and buyers who are looking are usually serious. A ready, well-priced home can sell, but the calendar changes how you plan showings.

Many sellers think the fall and winter holidays are dead months. Here is a more useful way to look at it.

The Mike Webb Team (Mike and Claudia Webb, RE/MAX Allegiance) helps homeowners in Arlington, Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC get their homes ready to sell and sold.

What do we know about timing?

Last winter in Arlington, sellers got about 97.1% of original list price from October to December and 98.9% from January to March, and homes took 45 to 46 days. In spring they got about 100.1% in 27 days (Bright MLS Industry Watch). Slower seasons have been harder on price and speed. But winter buyers often have a reason to move, and there are fewer competing homes.

Simple staging and good lighting help Arlington homes show well year-round.

What can I do around Halloween?

• Light the front. Keep the porch bright and the path clear.

• Hold off on heavy decorations. A small, neat touch is fine. Big displays can distract in photos.

• Plan showings around events. Trick-or-treat hours and local events can change traffic. Tell your agent.

• Keep leaves and candy wrappers cleared.

What about the holidays?

• Photos first. Take your main photos before decorations go up, or take them down for the shoot.

• Be flexible. Ask your agent which times work for showings.

• Keep it clean. Winter brings in mud, salt, and wet coats. Plan a mat and a quick cleanup.

• Warm and bright. Comfortable temperature and good lighting help.

Should I wait for spring?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. See our post on whether to sell now or wait. Your own plans may decide it for you.

FAQ

Do buyers shop at the holidays?

Some do. They often have a reason to move.

Should I take down my decorations?

For photos, mostly yes. For showings, keep it simple.

Will I get a lower price in winter?

Maybe, but not always. Price and preparation matter.

Want to talk about timing?

Call or text The Mike Webb Team at 703-350-3884 or visit claudiawebb.com.

The Mike Webb Team, RE/MAX Allegiance. Arlington, Virginia. Equal Housing Opportunity.