SEATTLE, WA — Sellers aiming to maximize the value of their property should consider listing in late May, according to a recent analysis by Zillow®. Data from 2024 revealed that homes listed in the second half of May sold for 1.6% more than average, equating to a $5,600 premium on the typical U.S. home.
This trend aligns with seasonal homebuyer behavior, as interest tends to peak shortly before Memorial Day. The flurry of activity is driven by buyers planning to move before summer vacations and the start of the new school year in the fall. Increased competition among buyers during this period gives sellers better leverage to command higher prices.
However, Zillow cautions that 2025’s housing market dynamics could differ. Persistently low inventory and unpredictable mortgage rate fluctuations continue to affect market patterns. “Mortgage rate volatility has disrupted the traditional spring housing market,” said Orphe Divounguy, senior economist at Zillow. “Rates can cause buyers to jump in or out of the market, which means pricing pressures could shift unexpectedly.”
Regional Variations and the Impact of Timing
Zillow’s research uncovered substantial regional variations in the best time to list. For instance, sellers in San Diego and Austin achieved the highest premiums as early as mid-March, while Phoenix sellers experienced peak pricing as late as November. These findings underscore the importance of understanding local dynamics when choosing when to sell.
The size of the price premium also varied by region. San Jose sellers who listed homes in March saw a remarkable 5.3% increase in sale prices, equating to an additional $93,200 on a typical home. Comparatively, Orlando homes sold for a modest 0.9% premium during their peak period in early May.
Strategies for Sellers to Boost Home Value
While timing is critical, Zillow highlights other strategies to help sellers maximize their return regardless of market conditions.
- Maximize Exposure: Homes listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) gained greater visibility and typically sold for 1.5% more than those marketed within a single brokerage.
- Highlight Desirable Features: Amenities such as outdoor TVs, pizza ovens, and bluestone patios have proven to add up to 3.1% to a home’s value, according to Zillow data.
- Invest in Screen Appeal: Listings with high-quality visuals, including virtual tours and interactive floor plans, commanded a 2% premium on average, adding as much as $9,000 in value on a typical home.
Outlook for Home Sellers in 2025
Zillow’s analysis provides valuable insights for home sellers navigating a competitive market. Late May remains a prime opportunity for maximizing sale prices, but recognizing local market nuances and leveraging strategies like screen appeal and in-demand features can significantly boost profits.
With ongoing shifts in interest rates and inventory levels, the housing market continues to face uncertainties. By combining optimal timing with smart selling strategies, sellers can position themselves to achieve the best possible outcome in today’s evolving real estate landscape.
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