Homeowners looking to sell don’t always have the luxury of time, but for those under less pressure, strategically timing the sale of their property can significantly impact the final sale price and overall experience.

This is according to Cobus Odendaal, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in Johannesburg and Randburg who adds that, similarly for buyers, those who can be flexible with their purchase timeline may find opportunities to secure better deals.

“While it's true that the best time to buy or sell largely depends on individual circumstances, understanding market dynamics can help you maximise your advantage in real estate transactions and, if you’re an investor purchaser, it’s even more pertinent.”

Odendaal says that it must be remembered that the property market is cyclical and influenced by various factors and, by timing your entry or exit strategically, you can potentially gain several advantages.

“The right timing is often instrumental in helping sellers to reduce the time their property spends on the market and achieve a higher sale price whilst buyers have more chance of securing a better deal and often also more options from which to choose.”

Odendaal lists five key factors that influence the best times to buy or sell a home:

1. Seasonal Trends

Real estate markets often follow predictable seasonal patterns and Spring is typically the busiest season for home sales. Homes often look their best with blooming gardens, and families prefer to move in time for children to start new schools.

In summer, the market is still active, but can slow down for a period as people focus on their holidays and then getting back to school or work after the festive season. Autumn is a bit quieter, but we still see steady activity as people have settled into the new year and begin to make plans.

Winter is generally the slowest season however, serious buyers are still active, and less competition can be advantageous for both buyers and sellers.

Sellers should consider listing in spring or late summer/early autumn to capitalise on higher demand while buyers might find better deals in winter when there's less competition.

2. Economic Indicators

National and local economic conditions play a crucial role in real estate markets.

Interest Rates: Lower rates typically stimulate buying activity as mortgages become more affordable and rising rates might motivate buyers to act quickly before further increases.

Employment Rates: Strong job markets often correlate with increased home buying activity.

GDP Growth: A growing economy generally supports a robust housing market.

Monitor economic forecasts and consider selling when indicators suggest strong economic growth. Buyers might find opportunities when economic uncertainty causes some sellers to lower prices.

3. Local Market Conditions

Real estate is inherently local, and conditions can vary significantly between areas.

Supply and Demand: A low inventory of homes for sale typically favours sellers, while a surplus of listings can benefit buyers.

Days on Market: If homes in your area are selling quickly, it's likely a seller's market.

Price Trends: Consistently rising home prices indicate a strong seller's market, while stagnant or falling prices might signal opportunities for buyers.

Research local market reports and look at the market history for the previous five years, consult with local real estate agents, and monitor online listings to gauge your local market conditions. Sell when inventory is low and demand is high; buy when the opposite is true.

4. Development and Infrastructure Projects

Upcoming changes in your area can significantly impact property values. For instance, improved accessibility provided by new transportation links often boosts property values and commercial development like shopping centres or business parks can improve an area's desirability.

Stay informed about local development plans in the areas that interest you and consider selling after positive changes are announced but before they're completed to capitalise on anticipation. Buyers might find good deals in areas with planned improvements that haven't yet impacted prices.

5. Political and Legislative Changes

Government policies can have profound effects on real estate markets. Changes in property taxes or mortgage interest deductions can influence buying and selling decisions and government initiatives aimed at increasing homeownership or regulating the rental market can shift market dynamics.

New regulations in zoning laws can also impact property values and development potential, especially in areas with growing commercial hubs.

Stay abreast of potential policy changes at local and national levels and consider how they might impact your property value or buying power, and time your transactions accordingly.

Odendaal says that it’s not enough to know which factors impact the market; it’s important to properly analyse them in order to make strategic decisions and he advises the following actions in order to make better informed choices:

1. Conduct Regular and Thorough Research: Regularly review real estate market reports, economic forecasts, and local news. Websites of reputable real estate companies, government economic data, and local news sites and publications are good sources.
2. Consult with Professionals: Engage with experienced local real estate agents, financial advisors, and possibly an economist to get expert insights on market trends and predictions.
3. Monitor Your Local Market Closely: Keep track of listing prices, time on market, and sale prices in your area or areas you're interested in buying. Several property websites offer tools to help with this.
4. Consider Your Personal Circumstances: While timing the market is important, it shouldn't override your personal needs and financial situation. Ensure any decision aligns with your broader life plans and financial goals.
5. Be Prepared to Act: Once you've identified a favourable market condition, be ready to move quickly. Have your finances and paperwork in order, your home prepared for sale, or your buying criteria clearly defined.
6. Don't Try to Time the Market Perfectly: It's nearly impossible to predict the absolute peak or trough of a market. Aim for generally favourable conditions rather than trying to pinpoint the perfect moment.
7. Consider the Long-Term Outlook: Real estate is typically a long-term investment. While short-term gains can be attractive, also consider how your decision fits into your long-term financial and lifestyle goals.

“While no one can predict the real estate market with absolute certainty, understanding and analysing the key factors that impact the market can help you make more informed decisions about when to buy or sell.

“And by taking a strategic approach and considering both macro and micro influences on the market, you can better position yourself to take advantage of favourable conditions. Remember, the ‘perfect’ time to buy or sell is when it aligns with your personal circumstances and financial goals, supported by positive market conditions.

“Patience, thorough research, and expert advice are your best tools for timing the market to your advantage,” concludes Odendaal.