Thinking About Selling Your House Again? Here’s Why Spring Could Be Your Second Chance
If you took your home off the market in late 2024, you weren’t alone. According to data from CoreLogic and the Wall Street Journal, nearly 73,000 homes were withdrawn from the market in December—more than in any other December since 2017.
Many homeowners pressed pause for various reasons—whether it was a lack of offers, the challenges of selling during the holidays, or a wait-and-see approach for the new year. But now, with spring approaching, it’s time to reconsider. The market is already picking up, and delaying your return could mean facing more competition from other sellers.
Why Now Could Be the Right Time
Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, suggests that many sellers who pulled their listings last year may be planning a spring comeback:
“Another reason for a step back could be that sellers wanted to wait and see how spring home buying season goes, and if mortgage rates fall, which would bring more home buyers and competition back in the market.”
Spring is traditionally the busiest season for buyers. As the weather warms up, more people begin their home search, eager to close a deal and move in before summer. That surge in demand creates an ideal window for sellers.
Additionally, while mortgage rates haven’t dropped significantly, they have declined in recent weeks. This shift is already encouraging more buyers to re-enter the market, and demand is expected to increase as spring progresses.
How to Approach Selling Differently This Time
If you’re considering relisting, start by checking the status of your listing agreement. Even if you withdrew your home from the market, you may still be under contract with your agent or brokerage. Realtor.com advises:
“If you aren't sure of the status of your listing, whether active, expired, or withdrawn, take a look at your listing agreement and talk to your real estate agent.”
If your contract is still active, now is the time to reconnect with your agent and discuss strategies to ensure a successful sale. If your agreement has expired, consider reaching out to a trusted real estate professional for guidance on your next steps.
Reflecting on your previous experience can also help improve your chances this time around. Ask yourself:
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Was the price right? If buyers overlooked your home, it may have been priced too high. Your agent can analyze recent sales to determine the best price point. A well-priced home can attract multiple offers and create competition among buyers.
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Was the marketing effective? Presentation matters. Professional photography, staging, and updated listing photos can significantly impact how buyers perceive your home.
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Did you consider concessions? In a growing market, offering incentives such as closing cost assistance or home warranties can make your property more attractive.
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Were showings flexible? The more accessible your home is to buyers, the more opportunities you have for offers.
Bottom Line
If your home didn’t sell last year, this spring could be your second chance. With buyer activity increasing, now is the perfect time to strategize with your real estate agent and relist with a fresh approach.
What will you do differently this time? With so many options out there, it’s best to keep an open mind when putting your house back on the market.
