When is a Seller not a Seller?

Real estate is a cyclical business.  In late January, many people start thinking about purchasing a home.  Towards the end of the year, around September, kids are in school, the temperature starts to cool, and the market starts to slow down. But, traditionally, it is in the beginning of the year when the market picks up momentum.  Late January and early February is when most buyers begin to consider looking for a home.  Not long afterwards, sellers usually start thinking about selling and either moving into a larger or smaller house. 

When thinking about selling your house, it is important to know when to begin looking for your next home.  The current market will usually tell you if you are likely to have an offer accepted that is contingent on selling your house.  When the market is hot and there are a lot of buyers, it is more difficult to purchase a home before selling your house.  This is because most sellers do not want to wait for you to sell your home when there are plenty of willing and able buyers who will make a purchase without having to sell.  When the market is slower and the buyers are less plentiful, or the inventory is high, sellers are more incline to entertain offers that are contingent upon the sale of another property.  So now what? Deciding to buy or sell a house is a big decision.  During the thinking stage, it is important to have the information you need to make the right decision for you and your family.