It’s the middle of January, usually there’s snow on the ground and a small amount of activity in the real estate market. This year, neither seems to be true. Not only is there no snow, but there’s also been a tremendous amount of properties being listed and sold so far in 2012.
Last year, at this point in time, about 80 properties were under contract or sold with a contract date after January 1. So far this year, we’re already over 100. Active inventory is currently a little lower than January 2011, but I suspect we’ll catch up in the last 2 weeks of the month.
If you’re thinking of buying or selling this year, you may want to consider moving up your time frame! With inventory low, being alert for new properties might put you in a better position to find the right one or you may miss out. Similarly, if you’re thinking of selling, putting your property on the market when competition for similar houses is small, may help you make the most of the sale.
Email or call me for helping figuring out your best time to start the house hunt or sale!