Many people say that it's harder to sell a home in winter than in summer. But there are real advantages to selling during the cooler months. In winter time, there are fewer homes on the market, thus less competition from other sellers. Furthermore, you'll have more serious buyers during the winter months than any other season. A buyer(s) who is willing to brave the winter elements and subzero temperatures to view homes is often times very serious about purchasing their next home or investment property.
And don't worry, the things that lead people to make new home purchases - a new job, a growing family, up or downsizing happen all year round and there are still plenty of buyers out there.
However, be prepared to put a little effort into making your home more appealing at this time of the year. If you do it right, you can really make your house stand out.
1. Keep snow and ice at bay
Usually, when the buyer can't get in easily, the house won't sell. That means keeping sidewalk, walkways, driveways and front steps free of snow and ice. You want to show the buyer that your house is being well maintained. If you do not live in the house, hire a service to salt and shovel the driveway and walkways.
2. Keep it warm
Part of making a home inviting to an interested buyer involves making it feel warm and cozy. Buyers who come in and aren't comfortable won't stay long. Set the thermostat higher if you know people are coming to look at the home. Turning on a fireplace can give a very nice ambiance aside from making your home warm and cozy.
3. Get the Windows Washed
Unkempt and dirty windows can turn off buyers before they even enter a house. Make the windows squeaky clean - this will get a good impression from a buyer.
4. Play music softly in the background
Another way to make your house feel like a home is to play some soothing music during a showing. Choose something soft and inviting on the radio, and turn it down just enough so that you can hear it in the background.
5. Emphasize winter positives
Make sure to point out the advantages of living in your home during the inconvenient weather. Some homes can use winter as selling point. Is your house near a ski area? Do you have winter views? Is there a great sledding hill down the street? People want to hear about the winter perks they enjoy living in your
home.
6. Set up timers
If you're not at home often, put your indoor and outdoor lights on timers.
7. Give the home a nice aroma
The No. 1 favorite scent is 'chocolate chip cookies'. Other popular scents are cinnamon rolls, freshly baked bread, apple pie, apple cider or anything with vanilla, cinnamon or yeast.
Watch out for the bad smells too... pet smells, smoke and musty odors can cling to curtains and carpets. Make sure that you got rid of these smell before showing your home to your potential buyer.
8. Protect the floors
To protect your floors, put down rubber mats by the door for snowy boots; buy a few pairs of comfy one-size-fits all slippers from a department or discount store for visitors to wear while they view your home.
In January 2011, James Real Estate Team sold (9) houses in (11) consecutive days - not too bad for the slowest part of the year... Contact us today to take advantage of the Winter Season and to get your home SOLD in the least amount of time for the most amount of $$$ back in your pocket. If you or someone you know is interested in BUYING, please contact us to get the BEST DEALS currently on the market.
Please remember to tell a friend, co-worker, or family member about the James Real Estate Team. Best Wishes and Happy Holidays!!
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