Andrew Winter

The million dollar question is also the million times asked question!

So why does everyone want to know the answer to this? Because YOU are all so greedy when it comes time to sell- okay, me included. It is not so much about the question so much as why it is asked!

It is commonly thought that by choosing a certain time of year to sell, it will miraculously improve your chances of selling and help you get top dollar

Sorry, it is not as simple as that. I recall when I first became involved in Real Estate in South East Queensland, everyone said, ‘Get ready for the Christmas and New Year buying and selling frenzy’. I remember thinking that was different, as in the UK market, the market had lost that kind of predictability well over decade ago. I should have trusted my instincts; that particular year it was the winter when sales were on a roll.

Many other influences affect the market itself. Remember, as sellers you have total control of the saleability of your own home, so differences between an October or June list is really only the tiniest part of the overall picture. An overpriced, poorly presented, poorly marketed home will not get a good price; or sell quickly at any time of the year. A beautiful ocean front home may sell well in summer, but could sell equally well in the colder months with the wind blowing and the dark grey clouds over it.

So it is a myth, there are always exceptions to every property rule; that is what makes it such a fascinating subject to me. Snow to sell a ski lodge and sun for a beachside unit of course helps, but only if everything else is right! So be warned, if you ask me that question I may just turn around and ask why you want to know?

Of course it could be you want me to predict market conditions for your home in advance accurately, if I could really do that I would not be chatting on telly to earn money. Anyone who claims they can guarantee a certain figure in the future is not really a property expect, but more than likely a misguided amateur!