Whether we like it or not, winter is on its way! If it’s anything like last winter, it will be brutal with everything from the ice storm to the slush to a frigid polar vortex. And sometimes, there doesn’t seem to be any end in sight yet.
Nevertheless, life must go on. If you have decided it’s time to move regardless of the cold, here are a few tips for selling your home in winter.
Staging
The dreary season makes staging even more important. By putting some time and effort into making your home look its best, staging can enable your house to stand out against the competition.
Warm it Up
Think warm and cozy when preparing your home for showings. Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature to make sure potential buyers are warm. If you have a gas fireplace, turn it on before an open house or right before a showing. However, never leave a wood-burning fireplace unattended.
By creating a warm and cozy atmosphere, buyers will feel your home is a welcome respite from the cold outdoors.
Take Advantage of Natural Light
Since daylight is limited during the winter, take advantage of natural light when you can. Schedule showings during the day when possible. Let the sunlight in by opening curtains and blinds as big as possible. Having all of your windows washed can also improve light and help show your home in its best possible condition. Also temporarily remove window screens to allow a better look outside.
Turn on Your Lights
Since buyers may see your home after the sun sets, welcome them by keeping your home well lit. Clean all light fixtures, lamps and bulbs to ensure they are giving off as much light as possible. Replace any burnt or weak light bulbs.
Do a walk-through of your home, inside and out, to ensure there is enough lighting. Consider adding fixtures if necessary.
Another trick is to set up both indoor and outdoor lights on a timer. Even when you’re not home, your home will always be well lit and welcoming to buyers.
Keep it Safe
After each snowfall, ensure your driveway and all walkways are well cleared. Keep ice at bay by scraping and salting. If your home is difficult to get to because of snow and ice, buyers will be turned off. It will also give the impression your home isn’t well maintained. Consider hiring a service to ensure snow removal is done promptly.
Make it Cozy
Add some warmth to your home with appropriate accessories. Focus on adding layers, such as area rugs, throw blankets and pillows. Hang plush towels in the bathrooms. Make sure all bedding seems appropriate for winter. These little touches will make your home seem cozy, warm and inviting.
Show Off Your Home’s Summer Potential
Do you have pictures of your well-appointed backyard or flower garden? Leave out a photo album with good shots of your outdoor spaces in various seasons. Show off your pool, pond, landscaping or curb appeal, as the winter weather won’t do them justice.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let our long winter season be an excuse – it is possible to have a successful home sale at this time of year. By looking at your home from a buyer’s point of view, you can highlight its good features and help it sell quickly.
