Should you wait until 2015 to sell your home?

It’s already close to the end of the year, and undoubtedly those looking to sell are getting a little anxious as the market starts to slow.

The seasonal slowdown of the real estate market over this period is just that, seasonal. However, it does mean sellers need to carefully consider their timing.

Certified Practicing Real Estate Agents chairman Geoff Baldwin explains that the Christmas period presents an opportunity for savvy investors to get in while other buyers turn their back on purchasing – but where does this leave our sellers?

"Historically our real estate markets slowdown from early November through mid to late January with the result that keen sellers become considerably more negotiable to the benefit of those few savvy buyers who are active during this period,” said Baldwin.

Stock is also set to increase due to this buyer inactivity, meaning your property will face more competition on the market with fewer buyers looking.

"While sellers who are not under pressure for a result will wait out this short term slowdown it is also not unusual to see others who are keen for a result, to drop their price expectations at this time of year,” he said.

“Sellers who are upgrading understand that they may accept less on their current property but they will also benefit when negotiating their next home.”

If you’re looking to buy and sell quickly, then there is perhaps an opportunity. However, if you can wait it out until 2015, then knuckle down, have a Christmas break from selling your home and get back into the market next year.

Baldwin points to the third week of January as when buying activity starts to heat up again – with 2015’s January to be no different.

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