‘Tis the Season to Sell: Tips for Selling Your Home in the Winter
Winter is not usually the season that comes to mind when thinking of the ideal conditions for selling your home, but you can be very successful if you take advantage of the unique opportunities that winter can bring.
Here are some tips to get the most out of the winter season when putting your house on the market:
Keep the exterior clean, inviting and safe
You don’t want winter maintenance issues to be the first thought of potential buyers. Wash any exterior areas that are looking dingy, trim greenery and remove debris. Shovel the walkways and keep the driveway clear. If there are any slippery areas, apply salt to keep prospective buyers safe. Add some outdoor seasonal decor: wreaths, lights, or planters filled with festive greenery for a welcoming first impression.
Embrace the season
Winter is full of positive festive feelings, sounds and smells. Take advantage of these and wrap prospective buyers in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Keep the temperature in the house comfortable and warm, but avoid cranking the heat which will make the house feel stuffy. If you have a gas fireplace, now is the time to put it to work! Plush throws and cushions leave a snug impression, while seasonal and holiday decor and plants can be tastefully added to create a charming, family friendly ambience.
Make it clean and bright
It is important to keep the house clean when selling during any season, but winter brings unique challenges that you should address. Keep the mud, slush and salt outdoors with a dedicated area to remove boots and wet clothing.
Lighting is also important. Replace any burnt out bulbs and turn on the lights throughout the house. Try to book appointments around maximum sunlight hours, and open all of the curtains and blinds to allow as much natural light and warmth in through the windows as possible.
With a little bit of extra care, and a few festive touches, winter can be a great time to showcase some of your properties greatest charms!