The Complete Guide to Listing Your Home in the Winter
Planning to list your home this winter?
One of the biggest myths in the real estate industry is that listing your home in the winter is a bad idea. In fact, listing your home to sell during the winter months is arguably one of the best times to list your home! Not only is there less competition, but the buyers are generally more serious, too.
But these benefits are just the beginning. For more information about listing your home in the winter and why you absolutely should, read on!
The Top 5 Benefits of Selling Your Home in the Winter
Between the cold temperatures and slippery roads, we can understand why many homeowners would avoid listing their homes in the winter. But the truth of the matter is that each season will present its own set of pros and cons when it comes to real estate.
Listing your home in the winter does offer a number of advantages, which we argue greatly outweigh any of the disadvantages that one could think of.
The top five benefits of a winter home listing include:
Showcase the energy-efficient features of your home
Dazzle the market with seasonal and holiday decor
Listing in the late winter can result in an early spring sale
Serious buyers shop during the winter
Fewer properties on the market can help your home stand out
These benefits are truly just the beginning! For more information about listing your home in the winter, get in touch with me today!
Tips for a Successful Winter Listing
Seasonal Decor
It’s hard to deny the urge to decorate your home in the winter months! Whether you add decor to celebrate the holidays or season, it really can spark joy!
The key to adding seasonal or holiday decor when listing your home, is maintaining a neutral approach. Your decorations should work together to elevate and complement your space, without feeling overwhelming or cluttered.
You should also avoid decorations that are religious or bold, as they can draw the eye away from the features of your home.
Work With an Available Agent
For many, the winter months are a perfect time to get away. Someplace warm, preferably!
If you’re planning to list your home for sale in the winter, you’ll want to ensure that your real estate agent will be in town when you need them most! As you speak with potential real estate agents, be sure to ask them if they plan to travel this winter or stay close to home.
Weather-Proof Curb Appeal
As I always say, never underestimate the importance of great curb appeal!
You can achieve sleek curb appeal in the winter that not only makes a great first impression, but peaks the interest of many potential buyers. It all begins with maintenance, before and after the snow falls. This will help to create a clean and polished look, especially when snow is removed and leaves have been raked.
You may also want to consider cleaning the gutters, investing in winter-proof greenery and adding durable outdoor lighting.
Plan Early
With the right approach and preparation, you can look forward to a successful listing in the wintertime. The key? Early planning!
You may want to consider beginning any indoor or outdoor upgrades in the spring or summer, while also coordinating photography and videography while the weather is still in your favour!
Create a Warm and Welcoming Space
There is nothing quite as enticing as a warm and inviting home on a cold winter day. Whether you choose to illuminate the fireplace, create a reading nook or accessorize with soft textures, the right approach can truly help your home become a welcoming and warm space - especially for potential buyers!
Keep Walkways Clear
Safety first!
Whether a viewing is scheduled or not, you should always plan to keep the sidewalks, driveway and walkways of your home clear. Not only will this help to ensure that your home is accessible and safe, but it can also help to boost curb appeal!
For outdoor winter maintenance, I suggest having the following supplies:
Coat, gloves and a hat
Shovel and snow brush
Ice-melt or salt
For those with limited mobility or who lack the time for outdoor winter maintenance, you may want to hire a company or ask for help from family, friends or neighbours.
Listing Your Home with Sonia Oliveira
Are you considering or planning to list your home?
Whether you’re ready to list or in the beginning stages with many home updates to conquer, sourcing the guidance and support of a local real estate agent is a great first step!
For help listing your home in the Kitchener-Waterloo Region or navigating properties on the market, I am always here to help. Get in touch with me today to discuss your options, and together, we can create a plan for long-term success!
