The power of timing
Years ago – decades now – there was a little movie released about a young boy who overcame a condition that affected his mobility. He learned to run.
You might know it.
He was so good at running, in fact, that he managed to outrun competitors on the football field, avoid explosions on the warfront, and jog his way right across the country.
He was running!
Got it yet?
Forrest Gump, now 20+ years old, left a lasting impression on most of us who watched it. Whether it was his love story with Jenny, his bromance with Bubba or his admiration for Lieutenant Dan, we all found a storyline that struck a chord with us.
Something else that Forrest Gump did was show us the importance of good timing.
“He got me invested in a fruit company,” he says at one stage in the movie. And some years later, “I got a call from him saying we didn’t need to worry about money anymore.”
Forrest didn’t realise he had unknowingly invested in Apple at exactly the right time to set himself up for life. We should all be so lucky!
In real estate, timing can be just as powerful. And while, like Forrest and Dan, some buyers and sellers do rely on pure luck, understanding when to sell can make a world of difference to your outcome, and to your future wealth.
The right moment can lead to a better price, fewer days on the market, and smoother negotiations. Here are some key insights to help you decide on the perfect timing for selling your property.
1. Seasonal shifts: tapping into peak buyer interest
Just like retail, real estate has its own busy seasons. Spring often brings an influx of buyers, with properties looking their brightest and people more active after winter. However, over recent years, autumn has often been equally strong, as families and buyers aim to settle before the year’s end.
What we have found – and certainly this is echoed by major real estate property portals – is the Christmas holiday season has become an increasingly busy time of year, with buyers flocking to websites to view what’s available and start planning their next property move.
Different areas experience highs at different times in the year, so talk to your local Presence agent to learn about the best times to sell in your suburb.
2. Market cycles: understanding economic influence
Market conditions, like interest rates and housing inventory, also play a big role. When interest rates are low, for instance, buyers are more eager as their purchasing power increases.
Currently, with interest rates stabilising and possible future rate cuts now visible on the horizon, we are seeing more buyers looking to enter the market. The promise of cuts can also be a big motivator, as buyers aim to get in before the rest of the crowd.
Keeping an eye on these trends can help you make a strategic decision.
3. Local events and infrastructure: building
If your neighborhood has a big project on the horizon — a new park, transport line, or shopping area — it can create a spike in buyer interest. Timing your sale to coincide with local improvements can boost your property’s appeal and value.
Right now, Newcastle is in a period of growth and expansion, with exciting plans for transport infrastructure recently released (see Ryan’s report) and new projects popping up around the city and further out.
4. Buyer demographics: who’s buying, and when?
Think about your property’s ideal buyer. Families often look to move in summer, aiming to be settled before school starts. In contrast, first-time homebuyers or empty-nesters may be more flexible and less tied to seasonal moves. Knowing your target buyer’s preferences can help you pinpoint the right season to sell.
5. Personal readiness: is the timing right for you?
Timing isn’t all about the market — your own readiness matters just as much. Property owners sell for a lot of reasons — good ones, and tough ones — reasons that can be very personal. Sell when is best for you, your life, your family, your situation!
While no one has a crystal ball, staying informed and attuned to your property’s strengths and the market can make a world of difference.
Just like Forrest’s lucky investment, finding the right timing for your property can pay off.
If you’d like help determining the best timing for your situation, reach out — we’re here to help you make the most of your moment, whenever you’re ready.
