By Lugean Jones Hogan, Broker/Realtor, Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist

If you’ve ever spent a season or two here in Carteret County, you know that timing can mean everything—whether you're heading out for a boat ride, planting tomatoes, or planning that summer fish fry. And let me tell you, selling your home is no different.

As someone who's lived on the Crystal Coast for over 40 years, raised my children here, and helped countless folks navigate the home selling process, I’m here to share some real-deal insights on one of the most important decisions you'll make: When's the best time to list your home for sale?

Let’s dig in together..

Why Timing Matters in Real Estate

Real estate isn’t just about location. Timing plays a huge role too. Listing your home at the right time can mean a quicker sale and more money in your pocket. List at the wrong time, and you could be waiting a while—or negotiating more than you’d like.

Think of it like fishing. You can have the best boat and the finest bait, but if you're casting your line at the wrong time of day, you'll be waiting a long time for a bite.

Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-timed listing can lead to multiple offers in just days. I’ve also seen perfectly good homes sit on the market simply because the timing wasn’t right. That’s why this question comes up all the time: When should I list?

Well, let’s look at the seasons.

Spring: The Sweet Spot for Sellers

Ask most real estate professionals and they’ll agree—spring is prime time for selling. The weather warms up, flowers bloom, and buyers come out in full force.

Here in Carteret County, spring brings a fresh sense of possibility. The days are longer, families start planning moves before the next school year, and those dreamy waterfront views really shine.

A recent report by Realtor.com showed that homes listed in mid-April tend to sell faster and for more money than those listed during other times of the year. In fact, homes listed during the week of April 13-19 sold for $27,000 more, on average.

And you don’t need to be a numbers person to see this. I remember working with a couple from Down East who listed their cottage in late April. Within 48 hours, we had five showings and three offers. The result? A sale above asking price.

Summer: High Traffic, But Be Strategic

Summer is a close second for listing your home—especially in coastal communities like ours.

Tourism peaks, second-home buyers start looking, and military families relocating often time their moves for summer break. That means more eyes on your listing.

But there's a trade-off: more listings. Summer can be a busy time in the market, which means more competition. If you list in summer, make sure your home stands out. Professional photography, a fresh coat of paint, and a well-tended garden can go a long way.

I helped one seller in Morehead City list a home right after the July 4th weekend. We highlighted their updated kitchen, walkable location, and water access. It was under contract for six days.

Fall: A Hidden Gem for the Right Homebuyer

Now, don’t count out fall just yet.

While activity slows down after summer, fall buyers are often serious buyers. They’re not just browsing—they’re looking to move before the holidays or the new year. That sense of urgency can work in your favor.

If you’re listing in the fall, make sure your home feels warm and inviting. Think cozy lighting, light seasonal staging, and tidy landscaping.

I once listed a home in Beaufort in late September. We lit a few cinnamon-scented candles for the open house and added a fall wreath to the front door. It might sound simple, but it made a big impression. The buyers later told me they “just felt at home.”

Winter: The Underdog Season

Winter is usually the slowest season for home sales, and for good reason. The holidays are in full swing, and colder weather keeps folks inside.

But here’s the thing: less competition.

If your home is move-in ready and you price it right, you could attract motivated buyers who don’t want to wait until spring. Think of military families transferring or people relocating for new jobs in the new year.

One December, I helped a retired couple list their home in Pine Knoll Shores. We knew we might have fewer showings, but the buyers we did attract were serious. By New Year’s Day, they had an offer.

Monthly and Weekly Timing: Yes, It Matters!

Beyond the seasons, there’s also something to be said for the month and even the day you list.

According to Realtor.com, the week of April 13-19 is expected to be the best week to list your home this year. Homes listed during this week see more views, fewer price reductions, and sell faster.

Even the day of the week makes a difference. Zillow has found that homes listed on Thursdays tend to sell faster and for slightly more money. It makes sense—buyers often start browsing listings ahead of weekend tours.

Local Market Conditions: Carteret County Trends

Real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all. What's true in Charlotte or Raleigh might not apply here along the Crystal Coast.

Here in Carteret County, we see strong market activity from late March through early August. That’s when school is winding down, tourism kicks off, and many local families make moves.

But it also depends on the type of home. Waterfront homes, for instance, get a lot of attention in early summer. Golf course communities tend to pick up in the spring. Condos in Atlantic Beach? They’re hot during and just after peak tourist season.

As someone who’s been deeply connected to this community for decades, I monitor these trends year-round. That’s part of my job—and one of the reasons my clients trust me to guide their timing.

Other Factors That Influence Timing

Besides the season or week, here are a few other things to keep in mind:

• Interest Rates: Lower rates often bring more buyers into the market.
• Inventory Levels: If fewer homes are available, yours could shine even more.
• School Calendars: Many families plan their moves around school breaks.
• Personal Readiness: Sometimes, the best time to sell is when you’re ready—emotionally, logistically, and financially.
  

Getting Your Home Ready to Sell

No matter when you list, making your home show-ready is key.

Here are a few tips I share with every seller:

• Declutter and depersonalize (buyers need to envision themselves there)
• Freshen up your curb appeal (first impressions matter)
• Make small repairs (a leaky faucet or squeaky door can raise red flags)
• Stage if possible (even light staging helps photos and showings)
• Hire a local expert (shameless plug, but it’s true)
  

I love helping clients bring out the best in their homes. Whether it’s rearranging furniture, choosing a paint color, or finding the perfect porch plant, I’m always happy to lend a hand.

Conclusion

Deciding when to list your home isn’t always easy—but with the right timing, expert local guidance, and a tailored strategy, you can move forward with confidence.

Whether you're planning to sell next week, next season, or just exploring your options, I’d be happy to help you weigh the pros and cons, understand current market trends, and map out the path that best fits your goals.

At Star Team Real Estate, we’ve proudly helped homeowners across Carteret County turn real estate decisions into successful outcomes—with local expertise, clear communication, and a commitment to doing what’s right.

Let’s talk about what’s next for you. Give me a call at 252-727-5656 or reach out to start the conversation.

When it’s time to sell, just remember what folks around here like to say: Ask Lugean.