Are you preparing your home for the spring market now that the holidays are over? That's great, but I'd like to suggest that you speed up your timeline. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Don't be fooled: There are buyers in the market.

Buyers are looking for homes because they need to make a move for different reasons — job opportunities, financial necessities, the need for more space — but rarely do they have an unlimited timeline. If they're looking for a home around the holidays or just after the first of the year, they're looking because they need to move. And even if they do have an unlimited timeline, a smart agent will advise them that conditions are right to buy now.

2. The current housing inventory is low.

Housing levels in the Roanoke Valley and across the country are, in some cases, near all-time lows. That means there are far fewer homes on the market than usual. Low inventory represents a great opportunity for sellers because there is less competition for buyer attention. If your home is ready to list but you're just waiting till spring because that's the thing to do, don't. You'll be listing your home at the same time as so many other sellers and creating unnecessary competition for yourself.

3. Mortgage rates are continuing to creep up.

Buyers who are financing their purchases know that mortgage rates are climbing. There are still excellent rates out there to be had especially for buyers with strong credit profiles, but it's hard to know how long those will last. Again, smart real estate agents are advising buyers to go ahead and pull the trigger if there is a home out there that they want. It might as well be yours!

If you've been considering selling your home, now's the time to make a move. Contact me today to discuss your particular situation and prepare your home to list. Call me at 540-793-0442 or email me at rpayne@mkbrealtors.com.