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By Gary Kelley
You’re reading this towards the middle of November. Perhaps you wanted to buy/sell your home this year, and now you’re thinking about shelving those plans until the new year.
Why?
Now I’m not one of those real estate agents saying to buy or sell on a holiday. Yes, there are fewer people out. Personally, holidays are for families. Now I’m committed; I was attending a walkthrough at 6:30 AM two days ago. All I’m saying is take advantage of the holiday season.
If you’re a seller, your agent can block showings, so your holiday gatherings are not impacted. The holidays are a crazy time anyway and you don’t need the additional stress of vacating your home for a showing. You must show it to sell it, so don’t block every day. If you are planning on putting the house on the market in the spring, use this time to declutter and get the house ready to show. Don’t embark on major improvements… you probably won’t get a return on your investment. Paint is a great way to freshen.
If you’re a buyer, keep looking. There will be more inventory coming on the market in the new year.
If you’re getting a mortgage this is a great time to check with your loan officer and update the preapproval. Think about how you might apply a year-end bonus. Check on affordability… as of October 28 a 30-year fixed mortgage is 7.88% according to Mortgage News Daily. Your loan officer has a toolbox full of creative tools to let you get into a house…
8% interest rates don’t scare me. My first house sported an 18% rate. I suggest clients look at their payments (principle, interest, taxes & insurance) and make sure they are comfortable with those. I’ve only had one client ever call to sell their home because they couldn’t afford it…
At this time of year, I try to enjoy the spirit of the season. Castinetti Realty Group fundraises, and I sign people in at the Westborough Community Dinner. I watch the Macy’s parade. I rocket around seeing my grandkids. Football can be watched at night… I want the experiences.
I feel fortunate being able to help these groups help others making a dent in a bigger problem.
I hope you and yours find peace.
Need tools for home search: MoveWithGary.com
Gary is heard on WCRN AM 830 and/or seen on WMCT-TV and Westborough Community Television discussing “All Things Real Estate.”
If you need advice on selling your home or buying a new one, give us a call 508-733-6005.
