Happy house hunting over the holidays
Many estate agents and sellers may have limited availability during the holidays, which can make searching for a home over the December break somewhat challenging. Patience and flexibility are key for those who want to make their home-owning dreams come true over the festive season.“Searching for a home over the holidays can have its challenges. But, some sellers may also be more motivated to negotiate during this time so that they can close a deal before the year is over – giving you a potential edge during your negotiations,” says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.
If you do happen to finalise a sale during the December season, he reminds buyers to keep in mind that the Deeds Office typically closes for two or three weeks over the festive season, which can delay any transfers that are in the pipeline.
Apart from this, RE/MAX of Southern Africa shares a few tips to help make holiday house hunting a little less stressful:
• Schedule viewings well in advance to avoid last-minute disappointments. As much as you can try to plan ahead, holiday plans and house hunting can often clash. Be prepared to adapt your schedule to fit in viewings.
• While festive decorations can add charm, ensure you focus on the property’s actual features – size, layout, and condition – not just the holiday ambience.
• During school holidays, homes with children may not be as tidy as usual. Focus on the property’s potential rather than being distracted by toys or holiday messes. It’s the space and structure that matter most.
• Use the holidays to explore various neighbourhoods. Festive activities, like local holiday craft markets, can give you an insight into the community vibe.
• Don’t try to tackle this on your own – a trusted agent can streamline your search by narrowing down options to fit your needs, saving you time and reducing stress during the busy holiday season.
As a final word of advice, Goslett warns that as hectic as the holidays can be, never rush the house-hunting process. “Take your time to evaluate properties thoroughly. A rushed decision could lead to buyer’s remorse later,” he notes.
By planning carefully and keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy a stress-free house-hunting experience and potentially start the new year in your dream home. Reach out to your nearest RE/MAX office to start your festive house hunting off on the right foot.