When is the Best Time to List Your Home for Sale in Gig Harbor?

First and Foremost… When it’s READY!

Of all the questions asked by home sellers, “When is the best time to list?” is always one of the first.  Yes, as we discuss below, market timing is a factor from a statistical perspective, but the one factor that surpasses all others when deciding the best time to hit the market: When your home is 100% ready to impress buyers.  A "ready" home is one that creates an unforgettable first impression, thanks to thorough, thoughtful preparation like sprucing up the yard and exterior, completing essential repairs, and staging to highlight its best features.  Don’t rush your home to market because you’re worried you may “miss the window”.  A home that is prepped to impress and priced appropriately will always sell faster and for a higher price than one that is not - any time of the year!

Now let’s look at recent data from the Gig Harbor market to see how you can position yourself to further amplify success.  

Understanding Gig Harbor's Real Estate Trends

In any given year, the number of active listings available each month fluctuates.  Most buyers believe there are more listings to choose from in late spring and throughout the summer, and data clearly shows this is true.  If, however, you are wearing a seller hat, looking at the data from a different lens is important.

 According to 2024 market data in Gig Harbor, you can see the number of active listings increases substantially each month as the weather improves. However, a closer look at the number of homes that go pending (under contract) highlights a notable pattern: the number pending sales do not increase at the same rate as active listings, plus pending sale numbers are more consistent throughout the year.  During early months (January-March) and later months (October-December), there are fewer homes for buyers to choose from, but demand remains steady.  

Buyers are always purchasing in the Gig Harbor market, regardless of the time of year.  As a seller you can use this knowledge to create a competitive advantage.  Less inventory means your home stands out more, potentially leading to faster sales and stronger offers.

Why Spring and Summer May Not Be Ideal

It’s a common misconception that the best time to sell is when the yard looks perfect, the days are long and warm, school is out, and tourists are visiting. While these seasons seemingly attract more buyers, they also bring a barrage of competition in new listings.   This increased competition can dilute buyer interest, making it harder for your home to shine without aggressive pricing even if it’s well presented.  You may also find it hard to believe, but as active listings peak in August, the number of homes that go under contract is the same as March and not much more than February or November.  The percentage of pending sales to active listings in August 2024 was just 38%, compared to 65% in March and 79% in April.

The Advantage of Early and Late Listings

Listing your home during periods of low inventory—early in the year or later in the year—leverages the basic principle of supply and demand. With fewer homes on the market, buyers are clamoring each week for new listings making them more likely to focus on your property.  This may lead to heightened interest, shorter marketing time, and potentially better offers.

Timing Meets Readiness

I cannot stress enough that while timing matters, your home’s readiness remains the most important factor in selling successfully. Before listing, ensure your property is:

• Staged to Wow: Highlight key features to appeal to the broadest range of buyers.

• Spruced Up: Fresh landscaping and minor repairs can make all the difference.

• Expertly Marketed: High-quality photos/videos, compelling descriptions, strategic marketing

By blending thoughtful preparation with strategic timing, you can set your home apart and achieve exceptional results.

Your Gig Harbor Market Strategy

Gig Harbor’s unique lifestyle—waterfront views, charming shops, and serene outdoor spaces—is a significant draw for buyers. Use this to your advantage by showcasing your home’s connection to the area’s charm and amenities.

Final Thoughts

In Gig Harbor, the best time to list your home may not be the traditional late spring or summer. Instead, consider listing ahead or behind your competition when buyers are competing for limited options. And most importantly, make sure your home is truly ready to impress.  

Count on the local experts at Infinity Real Estate to guide you through the full spectrum of this journey every step of the way:  Prep, Strategic Planning, Pricing, Promotion, and Partnership to success.