Preparing to Sell Your House This Winter: What You Need to Know

winter can be a great time to sell your home

You may have heard summer is the best time to sell a house, but there is no universal house-selling season. This winter may arguably be one of the best times to sell your home. With less competition and a strong seller’s market, homeowners who have the inside scoop on how to successfully sell their home this winter may just come out further ahead than they imagined.

If you are planning on putting your home up for sale this winter, there are a few things that can help your home stand out.

Create a Warm Mood

Winter is a time people want to feel warm and cozy. It’s cold outside, and you want prospective buyers to feel safe and comfortable in your home. Turn your lights on, light scented candles - pumpkin pie and apple cinnamon are great ones to burn this winter. Play soothing music. Jazz or holiday tunes are great choices. Be sure to offer something to eat and drink - cookies and warm apple cider are reminiscent of the holidays and can help you create a friendly, homey atmosphere.

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If you have a fireplace, this is the time you want to highlight it. Nothing creates a warmer mood than a big fireplace that invites buyers to imagine sitting in front of it on a chilly winter night. Throw a cozy blanket and pillow on a chair next to your fireplace.

Don’t overdo the holiday decorations. Too much can take over your home, making it cluttered and not allowing your home’s assets to shine. A beautiful Christmas Tree or a menorah on the mantle, along with classic subtle decorations will add a touch of elegance and help buyers visualize your home as theirs.

Be Mindful of Snow

Snow will most likely be the most significant nuisance when trying to sell your house this winter. Make sure you take the time to clear all walkways so buyers and agents don’t get injured. Sprinkle rock salt on any icy spots.

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While embracing the holiday months, you must keep your driveway and sidewalks clear of ice and snow. Traversing through slippery ice and snow that injures them or soaks their feet will bring an irritated homebuyer to your front door who already has one strike against your home.

Highlight Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

In the winter months, buyers pay attention to the essentials of energy efficiency and what their utility bills will look like. Homeowners who have energy-efficient HVAC or draft-proof windows should highlight these money-saving benefits your home offers.

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Curb Appeal is Still Important

During the cold months, curb appeal is just as relevant as in the summer months. Keep shrubbery maintained, put a fresh coat of paint on your front door, and spruce up your front porch to get buyers excited about what’s behind your door. Add some new outdoor lighting fixtures or a new doormat.

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Take advantage of the holiday months to create outstanding curb appeal; from the festive glow of twinkling lights running through your front yard tree to a well-appointed wreath, an elegant holiday exterior is a great way to make a lasting first impression.

Selling Your Home This Winter 

This winter, listing your home can improve your chances of selling your home quickly and for the price you want. Although there are fewer prospective buyers during the winter months, you will be in a less competitive market with more serious buyers.