When it comes time to put your property on the market, you can be sure that everyone you know will have an opinion about which season is most likely to maximize the chance your home will be rented or sold. But is there truly a time of year that is “better” for selling or renting your home? Turns out, there is: spring!
Spring is the prime season for listing rental properties in SW Washington. As the rain begins to ease and temperatures climb into the comfortable 60s and 70s, prospective tenants become more motivated to search for new homes.
Summer is a close second, so don’t count it out of the equation! The rental market remains highly active through June, July, and August as families finalize their moving plans before the new school year begins, military families relocating, professionals starting new positions, and students preparing for fall enrollment all contribute to strong summer demand.
Why Spring Is The Best Time To Rent (or Sell)
Although there are things you can do in every season to improve your chances of renting or selling your property, spring seems to be the favorite season for buyers and renters. Here are just a couple of reasons why you should try to prep your property for rent or sale during the spring:
Perfect Open House Weather: The warm, mild weather during spring makes viewing properties an easy, pleasant experience for potential renters or buyers. As a result, open houses held during spring are often more successful and attract more people than those held in winter. And, of course, the more people who view your property, the faster you will be able to take it off the market.
Unbeatable Spring Beauty: Spring is a time of warm weather, sunshine, and blooming flowers. It’s the time of year when nature is at its most beautiful, and when nature is at its most beautiful, your property is too. To boost the appeal of your property, consider investing in professional landscaping, planting some bright, colorful flowers, or adding planters or decorative window boxes to the outside of your property.
But Are You Looking For A Summer Move?
For a lot of people, summer is the time of the year when they will get the most free time. People use their summer vacation for all kinds of things, often to move. Students and families with children, in particular, are most likely to arrange to move in the summer before school starts up again in the fall. The desire to move over the summer means that these people will most likely be searching for the right property during the spring.
Additionally, tax refunds add buying power. Many people, once they receive their spring tax refund, decide that they are ready to move somewhere new. That little refund could cover moving costs, help with a down payment, or go towards rent. Whether they use their tax refund or not, the extra money often gives on-the-fence buyers the confidence to act.
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Best (and Worst) Months to Rent Out a House
- April through August consistently deliver the highest rental demand and strongest rental rates.
- May and June often see the most competition among renters, which can translate to faster lease signings and potentially higher monthly rent for well-maintained properties.
- November through February tend to present more challenges, and are considered the worst months for renting out. The holiday season distracts potential tenants, shorter days limit showing opportunities, and fewer people want to move during our wet, gray winter months.
How the Process Works
- Get started with a property evaluation. A Zenith Properties team member will assess your home’s current condition, identify any repairs or updates needed, and provide an honest assessment of what your property can offer in today’s market.
- Prepare your property to attract quality tenants. We’ll guide you through any recommended improvements, from minor touch-ups to more significant updates that could justify a higher rental rate.
- Market to reach the right renters. Our listing descriptions highlight the features that matter most to tenants in Southwest Washington, from proximity to local employers and schools to outdoor spaces and modern amenities.
- Have a thorough tenant screening you can trust. We take screening seriously because we understand that the wrong tenant can cost you far more than a few weeks of lost rent.
- Let us handle leases, move-in, and maintenance. Our lease agreements are designed to protect your interests while complying with WA State landlord-tenant laws.
Is Selling or Renting Better?
The answer depends on your personal financial situation, investment goals, and market conditions.
Selling provides immediate access to your equity and eliminates the ongoing responsibilities of property ownership. On the other hand, renting allows you to build long-term wealth with a monthly cash flow.
If your mortgage payment is manageable and you’re comfortable with the responsibilities of being a landlord (or partnering with a property management company like Zenith Properties. The Zenith Properties real estate team is made up of highly qualified professionals dedicated to helping property owners, investors, and renters succeed in the real estate market.
Just give us a call or fill out our contact form here. We’d love to hear from you!
(360) 696-3111