I had the pleasure of being invited into Air106.1 to speak with Claire Spencer about all things real estate this week and we discussed a very timely topic (given that it is snowing like crazy out there). How to ensure you set yourself up for success as a seller thinking of listing your home in these cold and snowy wintery months
Selling your home in the winter can be uniquely challenging especially on snowy & chinook-y days! However, with thoughtful preparation and a few strategic touches, you can showcase your property to potential buyers, making it inviting and appealing despite the cold and mucky conditions. Here are some practical tips to ensure that your home shines in winter’s icy embrace.
1. Enhance Curb Appeal
The exterior of your home is the first impression buyers will have, so make sure it stands out even under a blanket of snow.
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Clear Walkways and Driveways: Keep paths leading to your home clean and safe by shoveling snow and applying ice melt as needed. This not only makes it easier for prospective buyers to access your property but also demonstrates your commitment to maintenance and it shows you are considering their safety.
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Lighting: Shorter days mean more showings in the dark. Add exterior lighting to highlight pathways, entryways, and any architectural features of your home. Consider using soft white lights for a warm, welcoming feel.
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Decorate with Seasonal Touches: Use winter-themed decorations like wreaths, potted evergreens, or tasteful holiday decorations to create a cozy atmosphere. Avoid cluttering with too many decorations to keep the focus on the home itself.
2. Focus on Warmth Inside
Creating a warm and inviting environment indoors will help potential buyers feel at home, even when it’s cold outside.
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Temperature Control: Ensure your heating system is functioning efficiently and maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the home during showings. A warm space feels more inviting and can help mask the chill outside.
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Natural Light: Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. This brightens the space and creates an illusion of warmth, making rooms feel more cheerful.
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Use Cozy Textiles: Add soft throws, area rugs, and plush pillows to living areas. These touches not only enhance comfort but also make the spaces feel more lived-in and welcoming.
3. Highlight Key Features
Emphasize the selling points of your home that can be particularly appealing during winter.
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Fireplaces: If you have a fireplace, ensure it is clean and functional. A crackling fire can create a warm ambiance that invites buyers to linger. Provide seating nearby to encourage social interaction.
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Kitchen Appeal: Showcase your kitchen as a hub for winter gatherings. Consider Offering warm drinks like cider or cocoa during showings, if feasible, to create a welcoming experience and highlight the kitchen’s potential for entertaining.
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Basement and Storage Spaces: In winter, potential buyers may appreciate additional indoor space. Make sure areas like basements are clean and accessible, showing off storage solutions and any potential for usable space.
4. Maintain a Clean Environment
Keeping your home immaculate is crucial in any season but can be particularly impactful in winter when mud and snow can create messes.
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Regular Cleaning: Frequently clean and maintain floors to prevent dirt from accumulating. Consider using mats at entry points to help minimize the mess. And make sure to choose mats that are large enough for a group of 4 to enter the home to comfortably take their shoes off to avoid melded snow and muck to accumulate on the floor while they are touring and having them step in wet puddles on the way out.
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Fresh Scent: Ensure your home smells inviting. Use air purifiers and light candles with seasonal scents like pine or cinnamon to give a cozy feel.
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Don't forget about pets!: Winter months mean pets "business" can become highlighted in the white snow... make sure to pick up after your pets so you don't have to deal with melted slush and then yellow and brown ice - yuck!
5. Market the Right Way
Use the winter season to your advantage when marketing your property.
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Seasonal Listings: Highlight winter amenities in your marketing materials, such as nearby ski resorts, sledding hills, or other seasonal activities. This demonstrates the lifestyle that comes with living in your area during winter months.
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High-Quality Photography: Invest in professional photography that captures your home in its winter glory. Properly lit photos that embrace the season can attract more potential buyers.
Selling your home in the snowy winter months may present its challenges, but with the right strategies, you can make your home stand out. From enhancing curb appeal to creating a warm interior, every detail counts. By embracing the season and presenting your home as a cozy retreat, you can attract the right buyers and make your property shine. With a little effort, winter can be a magical time to showcase your home’s charm.
Stay warm!
