Real Estate Seasons—NOT What They Used to Be!

Traditionally, the real estate market had seasons. The spring listing season began late February and ran through June. A second listing season occurred in late September and October. The reason for the regular spring rush is that families wanted to sell, buy and be ready for school before September. August was often a slow sales month because of vacations and families getting ready for school.

The rise in foreclosures changed all that. Banks list homes year around. More than once I have seen listings come on market on Christmas Eve. Short sales are similar in that owners may list at any time of year, usually right after getting a notice of sale.

While short sales are running at 40 percent of the inventory plus or minus, standard sellers should list sooner rather than later this year. Why? Because  inventory is low now and always increases later in the spring. Buyers that have been sitting on the sidelines have cabin fever and can't wait to get out and buy, considering these  record low interest rates. Additionally the national news media is calling a bottom to the cycle.

Well-priced homes, entry and mid-level, are already seeing multiple offers.

Remember, when the prices come down to the point where a 25 percent-down investor  will realize cash flow then you can safely call a price bottom.