Why Now Is Not The Time To Take Your House Off the Market: Seize the Moment Before It's Gone!

October 8, 2024

Has your house been sitting on the market longer than expected? You're not alone. It’s frustrating, and the temptation to pull your listing may be stronger than ever. But I’m here to tell you, don’t pull the plug just yet. The market isn’t a waiting game—you could lose out if you hit pause now. Let’s explore why sticking with your listing is the smarter move and could make all the difference.

Other Sellers Are Pulling Back—Do You Really Want To Join Them?

According to Altos Research, many sellers are withdrawing their homes from the market. It's typical as we head into the fall and holiday seasons—people delay plans, hoping to get a fresh start in the new year. And while that seems like a smart move on the surface, this year might be different.

Why? Well, for one, with fewer listings, there’s less competition. That’s your opportunity! If you pull your home now, you're walking away from potential buyers who have fewer homes to choose from. Fewer options = more visibility for your listing. And that could lead to more offers and better terms. The buyers are still out there, and when they have fewer homes to consider, yours might be the one that stands out.

"In real estate, waiting often means missing out." – Dan McDevitt

Serious Buyers Are Surfacing—Now More Than Ever

One of the most compelling reasons to keep your house on the market is that the buyers currently out there are not just browsing—they're serious. These buyers have been sitting on the sidelines, waiting for mortgage rates to dip, and now that they’ve started to come down from their recent peak, they’re ready to act.

This fall market is packed with eager buyers who have a clear timeline. They want to lock in a deal before the holidays hit and winter weather kicks in. By pulling your home off the market, you miss the chance to connect with motivated buyers who want to close quickly. These aren’t your usual "wait and see" types. They’re ready to make a decision, and if your home fits their needs, they’ll jump on it.

The Myth of Waiting for a "Better" Market in 2025

Many sellers assume that next year will magically bring a better market—more buyers, higher prices, fewer headaches. But the reality is, waiting doesn’t always pay off. No one can predict the market with certainty, and by pulling your listing, you could lose the opportunity to sell in a less crowded market.

In fact, Mike Simonsen of Altos Research points out that, as we head toward the end of the year, the market is showing more typical seasonal patterns. Does this mean you should wait for the new year? Not necessarily. The buyers you want are here right now. They’re motivated, ready, and willing to negotiate. By waiting for 2025, you might end up in a market where the dynamics aren’t as favorable for sellers.

Pro Tip: If you’re concerned about getting the best price, work with your agent to refine your pricing strategy or consider minor upgrades. Small tweaks can make a big difference in buyer perception and increase your home’s appeal.

Mortgage Rates: Moving in Your Favor

We’ve all seen mortgage rates fluctuate over the last year. But here's the good news: mortgage applications are rising. That’s a clear signal that buyers are preparing to jump back into the market. They’ve been waiting for rates to dip, and now that there’s a bit of relief, they’re acting fast.

If you take your house off the market now, you’ll miss this window of opportunity where buyers are rushing to lock in a favorable rate. The key takeaway here is that mortgage rate drops drive buyer activity. The longer you keep your home available, the better your chances of catching one of these eager buyers.

Letting Holiday Sentiment Work in Your Favor

Lastly, the upcoming holiday season can work to your advantage. Buyers at this time of year often want to settle in quickly, aiming to be in their new homes before the holidays start. They’re imagining decorating their new living rooms, having family over, and celebrating. This emotional connection can make your home more appealing.

It’s not just about selling a house—it’s about selling a lifestyle. Keep your home on the market, and let buyers envision themselves celebrating in your space. If you pull your listing, you’re missing out on a seasonal selling advantage.


My Final Thoughts

Pulling your house off the market might seem like a smart move, but in today’s climate, you could be cutting yourself off from serious buyers. This is your chance to stand out in a less crowded market, attract buyers motivated by dipping mortgage rates, and let the emotional appeal of the holidays work in your favor.

If you're still unsure or need help fine-tuning your strategy, I’m here to guide you through the process. Let’s chat and get you on the path to selling your home before the year ends. And if you know anyone thinking about buying or selling, feel free to send them my way—I’d be more than happy to help them too!


Source: Keeping Current Matters

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Dan McDevitt
Cummings & Company Realtors
Team Leader, Realvolution Homes Group