Should You Sell Your Home in Fall or Wait Until Spring? A Pierce County Market Breakdown

With fall in full swing, many homeowners in Pierce County, including Tacoma, Puyallup, and Gig Harbor, may be wondering whether to list their home now or wait for the busy spring market. Let’s break down the pros and cons of selling this fall versus waiting until spring.

The Pros of Selling This Fall in Pierce County

Less Competition

Selling in fall means facing less competition compared to spring, traditionally the busiest time for listings.

• New listings slow down after summer, giving sellers more visibility.

• According to Redfin, the average home in Pierce County is staying on the market for 20 days, up from 12 days in 2023.

• Serious buyers now have more time to make decisions, meaning less competition for sellers.

Serious Buyers Are Still Active

• Buyers searching in fall tend to be more motivated.

• Many want to close before the holidays or before winter weather sets in.

• This means strong negotiation potential for sellers.

Strong Market Prices

Pierce County’s real estate market remains competitive, with home values still rising:

• Median home price in Tacoma: $575,000 (August 2024), up 5% from the previous year.

• County-wide average home value increase: 4.5%.

• Some areas, like Puyallup and Lakewood, continue to see demand, making fall a lucrative time to sell.

The Cons of Selling in the Fall

Fewer Buyers Compared to Spring

• While motivated buyers are active, the overall buyer pool shrinks in fall.

• Families often prefer moving in summer to align with school schedules.

• Some areas, like Gig Harbor, still experience strong demand, despite seasonal shifts.

Weather Challenges

• Pierce County's fall and winter weather can impact curb appeal.

• Rainy or snowy conditions may make outdoor photos and showings less appealing.

• If your home shows best in spring/summer, waiting could be advantageous.

Preparing for a Spring Sale

If you decide to wait until spring, there are steps you can take now to maximize your home’s value:

Make necessary repairs – Fixing minor issues now prevents last-minute stress before listing. ? Boost curb appeal – Plan landscaping updates so your home stands out when the weather improves. ? Tackle indoor projects – Winter months are perfect for updating interiors, painting, and decluttering. ? Watch interest rates – Keeping an eye on market trends will help you determine the best time to list.

Final Thoughts: Is Fall the Right Time to Sell?

Selling this fall in Pierce County can be a great opportunity, especially with less competition and rising home values. However, if you prefer to wait until spring, using the next few months to prepare your home will give you a competitive edge.

Not sure which option is right for you? Let’s chat! We’ll review your specific situation and create a plan that fits your goals

Visit us online: www.onsiteregroup.com