Maximizing the selling potential of your home in winter
According to many people, selling the house in the winter is a hassle. Some even say that it is the worst time of the year to sell a home. Given the severity of winter here in Ottawa, with snow storms and cold weather, it is definitely a challenge, but not for the determined ones! During the winter time, there are fewer houses on the market—you will have less of a competition and a greater chance of getting an offer. Anyone who is house hunting during the winter times is serious about buying.
Attention of the active buyers is captivated by first and lasting impressions. Any slightest bit of discomfort or dislike can turn away a potential buyer that you are desperately seeking; therefore addressing some of the key aspects of your home in the winter time can attract potential buyers and help avoid winter woes.
Here are some tips to maximize the potential of your home during the winter months.
- Do not let winter be an obstacle for your home on sale
The weather has been cold lately with a lot of snow piled on the ground and you have showings booked for your home. Active buyers are active and will be motivated by a house listing. However, it is your job to create first and lasting impressions on your buyer. Clean the driveway completely, and make an accessible entry. Buyers have been known to get turned away, rather than hike through a pile of snow leading to the entryway. Ensure that snow from the driveway and the entry way is as cleared away as possible.
- Consider the temperature of your home.
Usually buyers are viewing more than one home at a time and are rushing in and out of their cars during the cold and freezing temperatures. Having a heated house and a place to lounge will create a place of relaxation for the buyers, amongst the many houses they have visited, your home will offer optimum temperature and a place to relax. If you have one, turn on the fireplace in order to create an ambiance. This will cause the buyers to spend more time at your home and be able to consider what your home has to offer, in much more details than in a home with less heating and no set-up.
- Preparation is the key
Prepare your house such that all the rooms are adequately lighted up. Winter days are short and gloomy, and having a warm house that is well lighted can brighten up the mood and even create energy within the buyers. Ensure that all the lights are on before the showings or use timers. Also, ensure that you have prepared a place for the buyers to hang their outdoor attire. Always keep first impressions in mind. Is your home a sanctuary or an oasis from the cold weather that the active buyers are dealing with outside?
- Creating attraction towards your home
Have summer photographs available for your home to show the potential buyers. After all, summer photographs are the best! Even try to prepare a “take-away” list for buyers—highlighting the wonderful winter and summer activities in your area, for the various age groups. And, in order to create a welcoming feeling, have some cookies baked, they also create a feel-good aroma!