tips on selling your house in the winter
The sky is gray, the grass is brown, and natural light is hard to come by. But it’s winter and you need to list your house now.
Although it’s optimal to show off your house at its best with manicured grass, colorful flowers, and blooming trees, it isn’t always possible. Not to worry, though, there are plenty of things you can to do showcase your home in the winter.
1) Outside
Curb appeal is essential year-round. First impressions matter and most homebuyers are looking at your house online first. Photos should reflect a well-kept, updated house with trimmed greenery, cleared pathways, and an inviting entrance. Inviting? In the winter? Sure! Clean the rainspouts, put down some fresh mulch and add a container of greenery in pots by the door, if possible. Although it’s difficult to paint in the cold months, you may be able to touch things up on a sporadic mild day. Rake leaves and clear snow from walks.
A wreath on the front door in a contrasting color of the entry says, “come on in”.
2) Indoors
Inside, your goal should be to make potential buyers feel comfortable, warm, and welcome. Be sure heat is set to a comfortable temperature (not too warm, though). As always, cleanliness is essential, so hiring a professional cleaner and placing a rug/mat by the door for buyers to wipe their feet can keep things tidy. To create a feeling of warmth, use plenty of soft materials and texture—plush pillows and snuggly blankets on sofas, beds, and chairs. Fabrics can relay a cozy feeling. If you have a fireplace, have a stack of wood on display. Correctly sized rugs will also bring warmth and texture.
3) Accessories
Wood is a very inviting material and so are twine and burlap. A burlap runner on a dining room table can bring nature indoors and so can live or high-quality faux plants. Rope baskets, fabric tapestries, and sea grass/feathers in a vase are other natural accessories that convey warmth. Avoid items like plastic and metals, as they tend to feel “colder.”
4) Light
Open your curtains and blinds and let in as much natural light as possible. Consider changing lightbulbs to LED, as they are the brightest. Be sure all lights are in working order, as they are more important than ever this time of year. If you’re struggling to make a room bright enough with overhead and window lighting, add some lamps to side tables, or stand lights beside a chair or sofa.
Many people mistakenly believe that homes don’t sell as fast in the winter. In today’s market, however, winter remains a perfect time to sell.
6 Reasons Why Selling a House in the Winter Is Smart (realtor.com)
Professional staging, combined with professional photography and a realtor who promotes your home, is one more way to market your house so you can get more money and sell your house faster.
Stagers know what attracts buyers and how photographers will take pictures of the property. Shamrock Hill Design can help you meet your selling goals. Call us today 410-474-5523.