The best time to list varies by location. Sellers in San Diego and Austin saw the highest returns when listing as early as March, while Phoenix homeowners benefited most from listing in November.
Search activity typically peaks before Memorial Day, as buyers aim to secure homes before summer holidays and the start of the school year.
However, mortgage rate fluctuations have added unpredictability to seasonal trends.
“In the past few years, mortgage rate fluctuations upended the traditional spring home shopping season,” said Orphe Divounguy, senior economist at Zillow.
“Buyers who are on the edge of qualifying for a loan jump in and out of the market depending on what’s happening with rates. When rates fall, more buyers rush in, putting upward pressure on prices, which could happen at any time of year.”
For buyers unable to wait for the ideal listing window, Zillow suggests agents maximise exposure, enhancing screen appeal, and showcasing in-demand features.
Homes listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) reach a larger audience and sell for 1.5% more. Properties with high-quality photos, virtual tours, and interactive floor plans command a 2% price premium – an added US$9,000 for the typical home.
Features like outdoor TVs, pizza ovens, and bluestone patios also boost sale prices.
“Today’s home buyers are willing to pay as much as 3.1% more for certain backyard luxuries,” Zillow’s analysis found.
“A typical U.S. home equipped with an outdoor TV can sell for $10,749 more than similar homes.”
With competition in the housing market influenced by mortgage rates and buyer demand, Mr Divounguy emphasised the importance of staying informed.
“When rates fall, more buyers rush in, putting upward pressure on prices, which could happen at any time of year.”
