The redbuds are blooming. The grass is getting greener. And if recent years are any indication, we are likely about to see quite a few homes hit the market for sale here in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.

Sellers have been diligently preparing their homes -- painting, decluttering, making small repairs -- and are often ready to list their homes around this time of year. And buyers who have been watching and waiting through the slower winter months start to get more serious too.

So what does that mean if you will be buying or selling this spring?

If You're Buying

More inventory is good news. We've been operating in a market with relatively limited supply, so more homes hitting the market for sale is generally good news as you will have more options.  That said... more options doesn't mean less competition. The homes that are priced well and show nicely will still likely go under contract -- often within just a few days of hitting the market.  My advice: get your lender letter in hand now, before we're ready to make an offer.  

If You're Selling

More homes coming to market also means more competition for sellers. The spring bump in inventory is good for buyers, but it does mean your home may be competing against more options than it would have been in January or February.  No cause for alarm -- spring is still a great time to sell -- but keep in mind that while homes that are priced right and prepared well are still finding buyers quickly, homes that are overpriced or not well prepared for the market tend to linger on the market for sale.  The presentation and pricing of your home matter more when buyers have choices.

The Bigger Picture

I think we're heading into an active spring market here in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. We should see more options on the market for sale over the next few weeks.  Buyers who have been patient are ready to move. And sellers who have been waiting for the right moment to list are likely just about ready to go.