Real estate sales cycle Newton Brookline condos and single families January 2010 to October 2011
The chart below plots the number of homes sold in Newton and Brookline between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2011. Note the peak months for home sales are in the summer, mainly in June and July with a little bump up at the end of the year. What is interesting to note is that Brookline condos and Newton single-family houses track together and with the steepest peaks because there are many more Newton single-family houses that sell than Newton condos and many more Brookline condos that sell than single-family houses.
What this chart shows is the time of closing: when money is exchanged for keys and the buyer moves in and the seller moves out. The real activity is what happened several months prior, when the sellers put their homes in shape to be marketed and the buyers started looking at properties. The closing date usually reflects an offer that was accepted at least two months earlier. So be aware, the spring is already showing signs of life. If you are a buyer or seller, do not wait for the competition to flood the market in March or April because the early bird catches the worm!
Whether you are thinking of buying or selling a home, it is never too early to start talking with a Realtor® about your goals and wishes. A professional can advise you about your local market and help you time your move for your best advantage.
Data compiled from MLSPin (Multiple Listing Service)