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Don’t Wait Until After the Holidays: Why October is the Best Time to Sell
It’s October 13th—Columbus Day—and while many folks are enjoying a well-deserved long weekend, it’s also the perfect moment to reflect on timing, strategy, and making smart moves before the year wraps up.
If you’re a homeowner in Central Illinois thinking about selling, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is deciding to “wait until after the holidays.” On the surface, it sounds logical—after all, everyone’s busy, right? But in real estate, timing isn’t just everything… it’s money.
Here’s why October may actually be the best month of the year to sell your home—especially if you want to beat the winter slowdown and make the most of serious fall buyers.
1. “After the Holidays” = Mid-January (and That’s Too Late)
When sellers say they’ll wait until “after the holidays,” what they’re really saying is they won’t list until mid or late January. By then, momentum is slow, the weather is rough, and many buyers who were ready to move have already made their purchase—or lost motivation.
If your goal is to sell quickly and for top dollar, October gives you time to prep, list, show, and close before Thanksgiving. You’ll avoid the seasonal lull and position your home in front of buyers who are actively shopping right now.
2. Buyer Demand is Still High (and Inventory is Still Low)
Even as the leaves fall, buyer demand hasn’t cooled off nearly as much as some think. Central Illinois continues to see motivated buyers—many relocating for jobs, trying to close before year-end for tax benefits, or simply tired of renting.
At the same time, fewer homes are listed in the fall. That means less competition and more exposure for your property. Your home won’t be lost in the noise like it might be during a jam-packed spring market.
3. Curb Appeal is Easy in Fall
You don’t need to break the bank to make your home look appealing in October. Some well-placed mums, pumpkins, or a fall wreath can go a long way. The cooler temperatures make showings more pleasant, and warm, cozy interiors feel even more inviting.
This is one of the best seasons for “emotional connection,” and buyers tend to respond quickly to that.
4. You’ll Attract Serious, Qualified Buyers
Let’s be honest—no one’s casually touring open houses in October. The buyers who are active now are serious. They’re on a deadline, financially prepared, and motivated to get under contract.
In contrast, the flood of buyers that enters the market in spring includes many who are “just looking,” still figuring out their budget, or not yet pre-approved. Serious buyers in fall = fewer showings with more results.
5. You Can Be Settled Before the Holidays
Selling now means you could buy your next home and be moved in before the New Year. That’s a gift in itself.
Imagine celebrating Thanksgiving in a new kitchen or hosting Christmas in a home with the space you’ve been dreaming of. Starting the new year fresh—and ahead of schedule—might be the best decision you make in 2025.
6. Avoid the Harshest Winter Months
Anyone who’s lived in Peoria, Tazewell, or Woodford County for a while knows what January and February look like: frigid, icy, and not exactly ideal for moving or showing a home.
Listing in October gives you a smoother ride through the sales process—and spares you from trying to shovel a driveway minutes before a showing.
Final Thoughts from Jack
If you’re even thinking about selling your home, I’d love to talk with you this week. We can schedule a quick consultation, assess your property’s market value, and discuss what kind of timeline makes the most sense for you.
No pressure. No gimmicks. Just a realistic plan to help you win in this market.
📞 Real Estate? Call Duvall!
309-200-5480 | CallDuvall.com
Let’s beat the holiday rush—and turn your equity into opportunity before the snow falls.
