Selling in Winter – It’s Not a Bad Idea
The standard response when you’re thinking about selling your home (but are not sure when) is ‘Sell in Spring’. There is plenty of truth that warmer, drier weather and post-winter itchy feet, encourage potential buyers to open homes.
But life doesn’t stop for winter. People still need to move, whether it be for new jobs, for family reasons or just those itchy feet. Even though the weather is cooler, there are some distinct positives to selling your property in winter.
For a start, there are a lot of people who stick to the ‘List in Spring’ rule, which means you have less competition from other sellers in the market at the same time.
Also, if people are willing to make the effort to get out-and-about to view open homes on cold, wet days, then likelihood is that they’re motivated to buy! This is reflected in the latest market statistics showing a median sale price increase of $15,000 compared to last June, and the number of sales up from 488 to 517.
Tips for Selling Your Property in Winter
Use winter staging tricks
A warm fire can be a great asset in the winter; if you have a fireplace, ensure it is lit during an inspection. Blankets can be used on couches and in the bedroom to create a cosy vibe, making buyers feel at home in your property.
Curb appeal
Freshen-up your property by displaying potted flowers to help brighten-up the garden area. Rake fallen leaves, prune bushes with spent leaves and mow your lawn. This will help your property look more vibrant and appealing.
Clean the windows
Most winter days tend to be overcast. Clean windows will allow any sunlight that appears, to beam freely into the indoor space.
Use lighting to your advantage
On dim winter days, you may not have as much natural lighting as you would like. Turn on all of your lamps and lighting fixtures to banish dark corners and give the place a cosy glow.
Keep the heating on
It’s nice to enter a warm place when it’s cold outside, and in addition it will help erase any doubts about whether or not the heating system works. However, do not have it up too high – you don’t want people to feel like they’re walking into a sauna.
Make minor repairs
No matter what time of year you wish to sell your property, you’ll want to prepare for the sale by having a property that’s in proper working order.
For more information contact one of our consultants or request a no-obligation appraisal by clicking HERE
