When is the best season to sell a home in Southwest Virginia?
In Southwest Virginia, the best season to sell a home is typically spring through early summer. Buyers in the Roanoke Valley and Smith Mountain Lake are most active from March to July, with strong interest from families moving before the school year and lake buyers planning for summer enjoyment. Fall also offers steady demand, while winter tends to be slower but brings serious, motivated buyers.
Why Seasonality Matters When You Sell a Home
Timing plays a big role in how quickly you sell a home and what price you achieve. In areas like the Roanoke Valley and Smith Mountain Lake, buyer activity follows predictable seasonal trends. Understanding these patterns helps you make the most of your sale. Eric and Amber Gerner with Gerner Co Real Estate leverage their deep local expertise to guide sellers through choosing the right timing.
Spring: The Strongest Market for Sellers
– Peak Demand: March through May is the busiest season in the Roanoke Valley real estate market.
– Why: Families want to move before the new school year. The weather makes showings more appealing, and homes look their best with fresh landscaping.
– Average Days on Market: Many homes in Roanoke County sell in under 30 days during this season when priced correctly.
– Example: A listing in Cave Spring sold in just 10 days last April after Eric and Amber Gerner’s staging and marketing campaign.
Summer: Strong at the Lake
– Peak at Smith Mountain Lake: Buyers come from North Carolina, Northern Virginia, and beyond looking for vacation and second homes.
– Why: Longer daylight hours, school breaks, and boating season encourage lakefront purchases.
– Average Days on Market: Lakefront homes sell faster between June and August, especially those with deep-water docks.
– Example: A waterfront home in Mariners Landing closed in July after just 32 days on the market.
Fall: Steady and Motivated Buyers
– Why It Works: Cooler weather, less competition, and motivated buyers who want to settle before the holidays.
– Roanoke Valley Trends: Homes in South Roanoke and Hidden Valley remain attractive to families relocating for work.
– Lake Buyers: Fall often brings retirees planning ahead for the following summer.
– Average Days on Market: Typically 35–45 days, slightly longer than spring but with less competition.
Winter: Fewer Buyers, More Serious Offers
– Why Slower: Holidays and colder weather reduce overall activity.
– The Advantage: Buyers shopping in December–February are often highly motivated.
– Lake Impact: Smith Mountain Lake homes tend to sit longer in winter, but serious buyers will still act on unique properties.
– Example: A townhome in The Water’s Edge sold in January after 40 days, purchased by out-of-state retirees.
Seasonal Comparison at a Glance
| Season | Market Strength | Average DOM | Best For |
| Spring | Strongest | 20–30 days | Families, local buyers |
| Summer | Strong (Lakefront) | 30–40 days | Vacation & second-home buyers |
| Fall | Steady | 35–45 days | Relocations, retirees |
| Winter | Slowest but serious | 40–55 days | Motivated out-of-state buyers |
How Eric and Amber Gerner Help You Time Your Sale
– Local Insight: With decades of family history in Smith Mountain Lake real estate, they know when buyers are most active.
– Customized Strategy: Whether you’re selling a South Roanoke Colonial or a Mariners Landing condo, they tailor your timing and marketing.
– Proven Results: Their listings consistently sell faster than the market average because they combine smart pricing with targeted exposure.
– Community Ties: Active in schools, clubs, and local sponsorships, the Gerners are trusted guides for buyers moving to the area.
Conclusion: Choose the Season That Fits Your Goals
The best season to sell a home in Southwest Virginia depends on your property and your goals:
– Spring: Best overall for quick sales and strong offers.
– Summer: Perfect for Smith Mountain Lake waterfront and vacation homes.
– Fall: A good option with steady demand and less competition.
– Winter: Slower but attracts highly motivated buyers.
If you’re planning to sell your home in the Roanoke Valley or at Smith Mountain Lake, connect with Eric and Amber Gerner at Gerner Co Real Estate. They’ll guide you in choosing the right season, pricing competitively, and marketing effectively so your home sells with confidence.