If you're thinking about listing your home for sale, here's a brief market update along with some selling tips.

Traditionally, listings tend to drop off as the mercury falls. In winter people delay selling real estate, thinking their property has more appeal in spring. Plus the upcoming federal election has added an extra chill to the plans of many sellers around the country. For many prospective vendors, the easiest decision is making no decision at all.

It's a simple case of supply and demand, which brings a unique opportunity to capitalise on current conditions. But the demand for good real estate remains steady throughout the year. People upsize their homes, or downsize. They decide to become sea changers or tree changers. There are growing families and empty nesters.

Life moves on for many of us, regardless of the weather or what happens in Canberra. And smart real estate vendors recognise this. The best time to sell your home may be when many others have put their plans on hold. Less housing stock means greater interest in those properties that are available.

Listings in some markets are down by as much as 50 per cent compared to the same time last year. Our agents say this is comparable to some of the lowest levels of properties for sale in more than a decade. Fewer homes on the market creates greater buyer competition, and that can mean a better price for you on the day of your sale.

Right now is an unprecedented opportunity. Right now is a great time to sell.

Five tips for an outstanding winter property sale

1. Take the opportunity – list your home for sale now while others delay their decisions.

2. Ensure your home is clean, warm and inviting when holding an open for inspection.

3. Let in plenty of light. Open blinds and curtains during inspections. Cut away any overhanging branches from windows.

4. Apply a new coat of paint to make your rooms look fresh and inviting.

5. Appoint Raine & Horne. Our 130-year history of helping Australians sell homes is built on trust, energy and results.

From start to sold, you can trust Raine & Horne

Raine & Horne is one of the most respected real estate groups in Australia, and we recognise that selling your home is one of the most important moves you will make. We know it will require preparation on your part, to present your property in the best possible light. That's why you can relax and leave the rest to us.

First, we bring local knowledge and networks. Every day, we're in contact with thousands of buyers. A Raine & Horne "For Sale" sign out the front of a home reassures people looking for property. We're a name buyers know and trust. Second, real estate is competitive. We've been around long enough to know that energy bring results. Every buyer inquiry is followed up. Not one opportunity to present your property to a prospective purchaser will be missed. We go the extra mile because we know that works. All our agents receive extensive training - because you don't achieve success without professionalism.

And third, you'll be informed during every step of the sales process. Communication is key. We never forget that it's your property we're selling. And we're working on your behalf. When you appoint Raine & Horne to sell your home, there are only good surprises – an unexpectedly quick sale, a higher price. We know that results create trust. Much of our business comes from satisfied clients. Our clients use us again, and again, or refer us to relatives and friends.

And lastly, we're local.

You'll find Raine & Horne in every capital city across Australia and in many regional towns and suburbs. We get results. We take the stress out of selling your home. From start to sold, you can trust Raine & Horne to get the best price possible.

Is this the best time to sell?