By 
During the current market in Smith County, we still have a very low inventory of homes. During the holidays, buyers want to see houses because of the following reasons:
- They want to move closer to family, and they want to see what is available while they are in town.
- They want to move out of their current city, and they want to know what Smith County homes have to offer.
- They frequently visit the area, and are tired of paying for temporary living arrangements while they are in town.
- They want a break from loved ones, and they are considering purchasing a home.
- They are interested in investing, and see Smith County as a great opportunity.
I recently asked friends on my social media account the following question:
“Imagine your home is on the market now for sale. A buyer wants to schedule a showing on December 24th or 25th. Would you allow your home to be shown?”
Because we currently have low inventory, sellers have a little more say about when people can tour their home in contrast to other years.
…and here are the approximate results
33% said YES
43% said YES, but with parameters
19% said NO
5% were torn
YES Reasoning
“I would find a way to work it in.”
“Yes, it’s business, but the seller could share the joy of Christmas at the same time.”
“We are usually gone those two dates.”
“They’ll buy {my house} while no one else will let them in theirs.”
YES, with Parameters Reasoning
My friends were more open to having buyers come on December 24th, than Christmas day. Some were more specific and said they were open to showings on Christmas Eve prior to a particular time (2:00pm, 3:00pm).
“If I am selling my house {and if} the buyer is ready, hey, what a great Christmas present! SOLD!”
On of my friends even added, and I completely agree with,
“With a solid pre-approval letter, from a local lender, YES! But during certain time frames.”
NO Reasoning
“I have too much going on the 24th and 25th.”
“Are they interested in my home, or are they scoping it out?”This is why it is extremely important to have a current and up to date proof of funds letter, or , lender letter. Without one, it could give off the wrong message.
“They can do the 26th. We are allowed those days off at Christmas. If they are truly interested, they could make it work.”
TORN Reasoning
“Part of me says yes, because my house is beautiful at Christmas. Other part says only if I am planning to be out of the house.”
Things to Consider When Looking at Homes During The Holidays
- People did not get to see each other in 2020. This could be the first time their family is getting together in over a year.
- If you do not have a current up to date lender letter or proof of funds letter, you need to get one. Not only will this allow you to have a budget in mind, but when you’re ready to write up an offer, you can do so faster. Plus, because of COVID-19, many sellers are requiring current pre-qualification prior to entering their home, because they only want people who are seriously interested to see the home.
- If the home is not occupied, it may be easier to schedule an appointment for the home.
- Holiday decorations are temporary. Look past the décor while touring the home.
Whether you...
have been living in your home for many years.
just purchased your home.
are renting until you find the perfect home.
just moved into a new home.
just moved closer/further away from loved ones.
are experiencing Christmas in a new city.
I hope you have a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and all the best for you in 2022!
Kelly Raulston
“Reliable and Ready” REALTOR® since 2016. I was born in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, but was raised in Texas since 1997. When I found out we were moving to Plano, Texas, I remember looking forward to riding a horse to school and a brand-new pair of cowboy boots! Growing up in Plano prepared me to be competitive, quick, and to have a strong work ethic.
I graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. Axe’em Jacks! That is where my love for East Texas began. The nature, warm smiles, football games, and community values can't be beat! I graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I was a middle school math teacher in Tyler, Texas. I met my husband, Travis, in Sunday school, and we have been married since September 2016.
I love being a REALTOR® in East Texas! Relationships are genuine, the area is beautiful, and the market is rockin’! I am an involved REALTOR® to better the community. Some of the organizations I am involved with are: The Professional Development Committee, Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee, and Tyler Educational Networking Group. Some awards I have won were “The Hustle Award” in 2016, and “Rookie of the Year” in 2017.
When I am not working with my clients, I like to spend quality time with my friends and family doing the following: running, target practice, read and participate in book club, and playing with my dachshund Greta.
