Why Selling in Winter Can Actually Work in Your Favor

by Donald Wagnon

Should You Sell Your Home This Winter on the SouthCoast? Here’s the Reality in 2025

If you’ve been thinking about selling your home but assumed winter is a “bad time,” let’s set the record straight. Winter on the SouthCoast—New Bedford, Fairhaven, Dartmouth, and Fall River—isn’t the dead zone many sellers imagine. In fact, depending on your situation, it can actually be one of the smartest times of the year to list.

I know it sounds surprising. We’re conditioned to think spring is king. But winter comes with its own unique advantages, and in a competitive market like the one we’re experiencing heading into 2026, timing your sale right can make a big difference.

So let’s break it down—the benefits, the drawbacks, and the real answer to whether selling this winter is a good move for you.

Why Selling in Winter Can Actually Work in Your Favor

1. There’s Less Competition — and That’s a Big Deal

Most homeowners wait until spring to list. That means winter inventory drops significantly on the SouthCoast. And in real estate, low supply = more attention for your home.

Buyers who are active right now?
They’re serious. They aren’t “just browsing.” They have a real need—relocating, upsizing, downsizing, lease ending—and your home may be exactly what they’re waiting for.

👉 Related reading:

2. Home Prices Are Still Strong

Even with shifting mortgage rates, home values in New Bedford, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, and Fall River have held steady. In many price points, demand continues to outpace supply.

Yes, winter may bring fewer total buyers…
but the ones who are shopping are often willing to pay market value (or more) to secure a home before spring competition arrives.

👉 Related reading:

Home Prices Are Rising — What It Means for Buyers & Sellers in New Bedford

3. Your Home Shows Cozy and Inviting

Winter can actually help certain homes shine:

Warm lighting
Seasonal décor (minimal, tasteful)
A clean, cozy atmosphere
Fireplaces, updated heating systems, and energy-efficient windows

These features become huge selling points this time of year.

If your home has character, charm, or warmth, winter may be the season where it shines brightest.

Downsides to Consider (And How to Navigate Them)

1. Curb Appeal Takes a Hit

There’s no getting around it—winter curb appeal requires more effort.
Landscaping is dormant. Snow and salt can make driveways look messy. Days are shorter.

But with the right preparation, this is an easy fix:

Keep walkways cleared
Add fresh exterior lighting
Use simple winter greenery or a clean front-porch wreath
Make sure siding and windows are clean

👉 Related reading:

Top Tips to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal in New Bedford

2. Weather Can Disrupt Showings

Snowstorms, freezing rain, early sunsets… yes, winter weather can interfere with open houses and showings.

But here’s the upside:
The buyers who do show up? They’re motivated.

And most serious buyers today rely on:

Detailed listing photos
Video walkthroughs
Floor plans
3D tours

So even if the weather isn’t cooperating, your home can still be viewed—just virtually.

3. You’ll Need to Prepare for Higher Utility Bills

Buyers notice drafts and cold spots more in the winter.
If your home has older windows, poor insulation, or an aging heating system, those issues may become more noticeable.

A simple energy tune-up or basic winter maintenance can go a long way.

👉 Related reading:

When Winter Is the Right Time to Sell

If any of the following are true, winter may actually be the best time for you:

1. You want less competition

You’ll stand out more in a smaller pool of listings.

2. You’re moving due to job changes, personal reasons, or timing constraints

Waiting until spring might cost you—literally.

3. Your home is warm, inviting, updated, or turnkey

Winter buyers love homes that feel “ready.”

4. You want to capitalize on strong current values

Spring doesn’t always guarantee higher prices.
If values are stable now, there’s no reason to assume waiting will be better.

When You Might Want to Wait Until Spring

Winter might not be your season if:

Your home needs work you don’t want photographed in winter lighting
You have exterior projects planned (new siding, roof, landscaping)
You want maximum foot traffic and showing activity
You simply prefer a traditional spring selling window

Some homes do sell better in spring—particularly ones with big outdoor features like pools, gardens, and large yards.

That said…
Let’s look at the big picture.

The Bottom Line: Should You Sell This Winter?

Here’s the truth:
Winter can be an excellent time to sell —if it matches your situation.

If your home is in good shape, warm and inviting, and priced correctly?
Winter buyers will absolutely show up.

If you’re not sure whether winter or spring makes more sense for your goals?
That’s where a personalized strategy comes in.

Ready to Talk Through Your Options?

If you’ve been wondering whether this winter is the right time to list your home in New Bedford, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, or Fall River, reach out. I’m happy to walk you through: