Want to Move This Fall? Start Planning Now Before the Holidays Sneak Up

Labor Day is already behind us, and the scent of pumpkin spice is creeping into the air. You know what that means? Fall is officially knocking—and it’s time to get serious if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in 2025.

September and October are prime months for real estate in Central Illinois, but the clock is ticking. Once Halloween hits, the holiday season takes over, and most buyers and sellers either check out mentally or hit pause until spring.

So if you’re even thinking about making a move before the end of the year, the message is clear:

Now is the time to take action.

🎯 Why Fall Buyers Are More Serious

Summer brings the “looky-loos”—people who browse open houses but aren’t quite ready to commit. Fall, on the other hand? That’s when the serious buyers come out to play.

Here’s why:

They want to lock in a home before the holidays
They’re motivated to use vacation time wisely
They know sellers are more willing to negotiate as winter approaches
They want to avoid competing with springtime crowds

I’ve helped hundreds of buyers in September and October who were laser-focused and ready to go. When you know your timeline and budget—and have a local expert guiding the process—fall is an ideal time to buy.

🧠 Sellers: You’ve Got a Unique Window

Thinking of waiting until spring? You’re not alone—but that’s exactly what makes listing now a strategic advantage.

Here’s what I mean:

Inventory typically drops in the fall, meaning less competition
Buyers touring homes now are more likely to make strong offers
Homes show beautifully in early fall: warm lighting, cozy staging, and colorful curb appeal

And the best part? If you prep and price it right, you could be under contract before Halloween and closed before the snow flies.

That’s not just good timing—it’s good strategy.

🧹 It Starts With Preparation

If you’re selling, don’t wait until the last minute to prepare. I always recommend starting with a deep clean, declutter, and minor touch-ups—think of it as setting the stage for your home’s fall debut.

I even created a “Showing Conditions vs. Living Conditions” handout for my sellers that outlines exactly what needs to be done to turn your home from “comfortable” to “market ready.” (Spoiler: Yes, that means hiding the laundry basket and losing the oversized recliner.)

Even small changes can have a big impact on first impressions—and buyers are making decisions faster than ever.

🧭 The End-of-Year Market Still Moves

Here’s a secret: While some agents slow down after Labor Day, the agents who keep working (like yours truly) close a lot of deals in the fall.

In fact, I’ve helped plenty of clients:

Close before Thanksgiving
Relocate before the new school semester
Sell in the fall and rent through winter to buy in spring
Buy before year-end for tax planning purposes

Every situation is different—but the key is having a plan tailored to your timeline. That’s where I come in.

💬 Let’s Build Your Plan—Today

I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all advice. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, relocating, or buying your first home, I’m here to:

Help you understand current inventory
Share neighborhood-specific pricing trends
Recommend trusted lenders, inspectors, and contractors
Guide your sale or purchase from start to finish

Let’s not let the holidays sneak up on you. If you want to be celebrating Thanksgiving in a new home—or at least have your plans in motion—September is the time to move.

🏁 Bottom Line

The market is still active. The weather is still nice. Buyers are motivated. And homes are still selling quickly in many Central Illinois communities.

If you’re thinking about making a move, don’t let the calendar run the show. Reach out now, and I’ll help you take control of your timeline.

📞 Real Estate? Call Duvall!
Let’s make your fall move smart, smooth, and stress-free.