Cold weather makes us long for the warmth of hearth and home. The desire for a cozy spot in front of the fireplace works to the advantage of the real estate market. Cold weather and the real estate market seem to be the perfect match.
Longing for Home
For most people, the thought of curling up by the fireplace with a good book and a warm drink is a comforting image. Do we have a positive reaction to that scene just because of the human need for comfort and warmth? Or are we influenced somewhat by advertising campaigns of savvy entrepreneurs and eager realtors promoting that association?
Make no mistake; realtors are aware of the 'longing for home' syndrome that can set in during cold weather. Renters in tiny apartments might be more inclined to wish for that home with a welcoming and warm kitchen. Maybe homeowners would consider upgrading to a house with a better heating system or the golden glow of a fireplace or two. All 'golden' opportunities for a waiting realtor!
Leaving Home
On the other hand, cold weather can be the impetus to get sun worshippers to think about leaving home. Actually, realtors in warm climates bank on that reality. Winter-weary home owners will want to leave the snow banks in search of hotter temperatures. Therefore, a hot real estate market materializes in warmer locations.
With almost all U.S. states now covered in snow, Florida realtors are optimistic about home sales. Joseph Santini, a Florida realtor, explains the logic behind their reasoning.
"What it really comes down to is would you rather shovel two feet of snow or go to the beach to shovel sand? The cold weather is good for us,” says Joseph Santini, Boca Raton broker.
Florida realtors have their sights on homeowners in colder cities such as New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. According to Santini, their marketing yields results and freezing home owners reach out for a little warmth.
Florida realtors know, however, that they must market aggressively while temperatures are at their lowest points. The same urgency about a move to sunny climates will not exist if a homeowner's thoughts start shifting to the approaching wonders of spring. Santini details the general marketing approach to attract homeowners in colder climates.
"The trick is to be aggressive in selling while the weather is frigid elsewhere and meteorologists talk about weather events like “snow bombs,” explains Joseph Santini, Florida realtor.
Hot Bargains
Of course, Florida realtors are also willing to sweeten the pot and throw a few bargains into the mix. According to the Florida Association of Realtors, the average sale price of an existing home in Brevard was $105,600 in November, 2010. Consider that the price of the same home was $184,000 in 2007.
Cool Perks
Other factors in Florida also play into the realtors' hands. They can offer homeowners extra perks such as affordable short sale properties and no state income tax.
Are You Ready To Leave The Cold Weather For A Hot Real Estate Market?
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