In Pennsylvania, the housing inventory has gone up from last year by about 13%. The inventory had been below average for the Philadelphia area since 2008 and Covid didn’t help! 

As we have more distance from Covid people who have been staying put might start to think about what their next move COULD be. The Philadelphia area is a very stable market but I am starting to see homes sit on the market for a little longer. Buyers have a bit more leverage in their pockets because interest rates are lower. I believe the very height of the seller’s market is past us. 

We will still see some multi bids on “HOT” homes in the springtime. HOME inspections will probably be back and I have many ways of heading issues off at the pass. We may even see some negotiation on price for an over-exaggerated property. OH a real estate coach can dream!

September, October and November is the time that some smart early bird sellers will start to think if this will be my last holiday season in this home. 

Ask yourself, 

• Is this home too large for me/us to take care of? 
• Do I really like mowing the grass and shoveling snow? 
• Do all my family and friends now live somewhere else? 

Some people want to move to a townhome, condo, or 55-and-over community. I urge sellers to explore their options of where they would like to live now before putting a home on the market. 

Find an experienced Realtor to go have a look at condos or some townhomes. Try them on for size…do they fit? Please don’t think you’re wasting a Realtor’s time, this is what we do! Call a senior facility and go for a visit. Some of them are downright like Camp for Adults and lovely! 

In my 20-plus years of real estate experience, it’s less stressful for sellers to know where they will be going or have an idea of what they want the next step to be. It allows people to make the decision. I know moving is hard work, but remember ALL of your memories come with you to your next home.

Things to consider

1. Legal and Financial Advisors: Consult with legal and financial advisors to understand the implications of selling your home, especially regarding taxes and any existing mortgages.
2. Prepare for Inspections: Be ready for home inspections by making necessary repairs in advance. Addressing issues beforehand can prevent delays in the selling process. Your Realtor can help with this step and you do not need to fix everything before selling your home.
3. Understand the Market: Research and understand the current market conditions. Determine whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market to set realistic expectations.
4. Choose the Right Agent: Work with a reputable real estate agent who has experience in your local market and a track record of successful sales.

Remember moving is a process and all the pieces of the puzzle need to fit together for the move to make sense to a client. Starting to look into the process doesn’t mean you have to move this year! Realtors work on your schedule. Our job is to be committed to make the process as smooth and easy as possible for our clients. 

If I can be of help in coaching you in the event you are thinking about making a Real Estate Move, please freely pick up the phone and give me a call for a no obligation informational chat. 

Betsy Zeitlin, 610-999-2454
RE/MAX Ready 
O 610-828-6300. 
Experience has its rewards!