Rockville Centre real estate heating up

The winter has been long and cold. But with spring here, things are finally starting to heat up a bit — including the local real estate market.

Increasing home prices means that this is the best time in years to have a house on the market in Rockville Centre. Coupled with low inventory, sellers have a distinct advantage. But the market is also still solid for buyers, who can get low interest rates on mortgages.

“I think it’s going to be extremely busy because of the fact that the winter delayed people from putting their houses on the market and from buyers going out and looking,” said Rich McQuillan, the broker of record at EXIT Links Realty in Rockville Centre. “Nobody wanted them to come through their house with snow and salt. It delayed things, but it’s going to be a very good time to buy and sell.”

Sellers who have delayed putting their home on the market would be best off doing it this year. More people are going to be out looking soon, realtors say, thanks to the warming weather. Prices are starting to tick up, which means that sellers can get more money for their house. And because supply is still low, sellers are more likely to get close to their asking price for their home.

Buyers are also in a good position, though, mainly because of interest rates, which are still at near-historic lows. McQuillan said that this could very well be the last season of low mortgage rates before they increase, maybe even up to 7 percent, he said.

But don’t think sellers can just put their house up for sale and wait for buyers to roll in. They still have to prepare their homes and make them appealing.

“Clutter is a major thing,” said Judy Hart, broker/owner of Century 21 Sherlock Homes. “Get rid of it so people can move through the home.”

Hart also said that sellers should make sure their houses have curb appeal — make sure you clean up the exterior as the weather warms. New plants and a well-manicured lawn can go a long way.

Sellers should also make sure their terms are good. Just because supply is on the low side doesn’t mean people will buy an overpriced home.

Buyers also need to be ready and make themselves as appealing as possible to sellers.