We’re well into summer and seeing many of our market predictions play out as expected:
- In June, inventory across the Northeast increased by 17.6%
- Listing prices remain high across Massachusetts
- Pricing, preparation, and a personalized approach are the keys to selling success
While some buyers are motivated to find a home before the school year, others are out of town, taking time to enjoy summer fun.
If your timing is flexible, summer’s variable buyer activity may make fall a more strategic time for you to list.
At a time when many sellers’ perspectives haven’t caught up to the realities of today’s market, success depends on having the right plan. We’re seeing a 35% year-to-date increase in listings being withdrawn nationwide. Often, the reason is aggressive pricing that didn’t get the expected buyer response.
To make the most of your listing right from the start, focus on preparation that pays off as we head toward fall.
The reality is that today’s buyers are avoiding homes that need work and attention. Time is precious, many don’t have the skills to DIY, and the Covid+ pricing of home improvements is a tough pill to swallow. Buyers are willing to wait—and to pay—for a turnkey property that they can immediately make into their comfortable home.
This means you have to freshen and fix before you list. Decluttering, painting, and repairs always take longer than you think they will. That’s why I recommend we connect early to determine which tasks will make the biggest impact.
As a local, resource-driven firm, Rutledge Properties maintains strong relationships with contractors and other trusted service providers. Instead of trying to navigate the process alone, let me help connect you directly with the people you need to make your home stand out in all the best ways. We’ll make sure it gets done quickly, correctly, and with more money in your pocket.
From there, we’ll help buyers see all the potential your property has to offer with proper staging. From maximizing light to eliminating distractions to swapping out décor with items from our stock, we’ll get it Rutledge Ready before we market your listing.
Long story short?
Reach out today. I’ll work my magic, and you can get back to the beach but still be ready for fall!
August 2025