How to Sell your Home in the Winter
It’s winter which means frigid temperatures, snow and ice. If you are thinking of selling your home this winter lets first look at the pros and cons to help you make a decision that is right for you.
Cons:
1. Gardens, roofs, yards, pools and landscaping do not show well in January/February when they are all covered in 2 feet of snow.
2. Shovelling, shovelling and more shovelling! When you are finished shoveling you will bring some of that salt and sand into your foyer courtesy of your winter boots! Not fun to clean up.
3. Some buyers wait until there is more choice in the spring market.
Pros:
1. Houses can look cozy and inviting with a fire lit in the fireplace and a cardinal in the bird in the feeder.
2. People move all year around! We have 8 families (clients) who are moving between January 1st and February 12th. There are always buyers out there!
3. There is less competition as there are fewer homes on the market.
You have weighed the pros and cons and have decided to sell, so lets get started:
1. Your home must give a great first impression- keep the front door clean and a nice pot of green foliage is a welcome touch!
2. Keep your lights on for evening showings, all of them!
3. If you are away, keep the thermostat at a reasonable temperature. A cold house does not say “welcome home”.
4. Keep an extra large mat and boot tray at the front door for visitors boots, (hide yours away).
5. If you have a sun room or porch play it up with furnishings.
6. The large play room in the basement is a bigger asset in the winter-make sure your Realtor makes note of spaces used more in winter.
7. Keep all walkways, decks and driveway clear of snow and ice. If at all possible make sure there is a path to allow access to storage shed or back/side yard.
The buyer may want to take a look.
8. Open your windows in your home for a few minutes every day. For example open your bedroom window when making your bed,those few extra minutes will make a difference.
9. If you have a garage make sure you can get a car inside. In the winter this is a big attraction.
10. Hire the right Realtor for the job-when interviewing agents don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions. After all, as the Seller you have the right to know how your money is being spent to sell your house.