Realtors: Don't Let The Holidays Slow Your Home Sale Down

Selling a home during the holiday season can be challenging, but it can be done. Homeowners may be reluctant to put their home on the market, but local realtor of First National Realty, says now is the time to do it.

"Don’t wait until spring," said Cardinale. "The market is still changing and most experts predict prices will continue to fall. Experts such as Zillow Chief Economist Dr. Humphries, Fitch, Clear Capital, CNN Money, Standard & Poors, and JP Morgan Chase expect prices to fall between three and thirteen percent over the first half of 2012."

According to Cardinale, more buyers do tend to shop in the spring, however the supply this year may be more than the market can handle.

"New York may have 120 months or more of shadow inventory- bank owned or distressed properties not yet on the market. When these properties hit the market in 2012, they will pull prices down," said Cardinale.

This time of year is typically busy, but if you are showing your home, keep it simple. of Realty Connect USA,  says homes are warm and inviting this time of year, but make sure to steer clear of holiday clutter.

"Think monotone and minimalistic, think simple. Warm, inviting and carefully-planned decorations will appeal to more buyers than, say, Clark Griswold’s idea of tasteful decor," says Dwyer-Johnston.

"We all love Clark’s enthusiasm for the holidays and his family’s unique style, but save the over the top stuff for next year. A few strands of single-color lights framing the entrance and a wreath on the front door will suffice."

If you are present during your open house, treat potential home buyers like guests.

"The scent of freshly baked cookies and a plate of treats offered to visitors is always a good thing," said Dwyer-Johnston. "Make sure to keep walkways free of snow and ice."

The buyer isn't the only one you have to sell the home to, said Cardinale. The appraiser plays an important role in the selling of a home too.

"Be prepared to sell your home twice, once to a prospective buyer and once to an appraiser," she said. "According to the National Association of Realtors, thirty-three percent of contract failures in Oct. 2011 were caused by declined mortgage applications due to appraised values coming in below the negotiated sales price."

If a few months pass and you find your home is still on the market come spring, don't forget to update the listing photos.

"If your MLS photos were taken while your decorations were on display, have them retaken as soon as the holidays are over," said Dwyer-Johnston.