As the vibrant hues of summer give way to the crispness of fall, and eventually to the cool embrace of winter, the real estate market still has to keep going. These seasons present a good opportunity to showcase your home in its coziest light. Preparing your home for showings during the colder months requires a different approach than in the warmer seasons, focusing on creating warmth, comfort, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Here are some tips for a successful showing: Fall-Winter Edition.
1. Enhance Curb Appeal
Enhance your curb appeal despite the cold weather. First impressions are crucial, and this starts at the curb, no matter the time of year.
- Keep Walkways Clear: Ensure that paths, driveways, and steps are free from leaves, snow, and ice. This not only enhances safety but also shows that the home is well-maintained.
- Add Seasonal Decorations: Use fall wreaths, pumpkins, and other seasonal décor to add a pop of colour. In winter, opt for tasteful holiday decorations, evergreens, and warm lighting to create a festive atmosphere. DO NOT overdo it! This is a big mistake, especially during holidays; keep it simple.
- Exterior Lighting: With shorter days, ensure your home is well-lit. Update or add outdoor lighting to highlight key features of your home and make it more inviting after dark. Make sure all the lightbulbs are working.
2. Create a Warm and Cozy Interior
You’ll want to create a space that potential buyers can imagine themselves retreating to during the chilly months… you want them to feel like they are at home already.
- Warmth and Comfort: Keep your home comfortably warm during showings. If you have a fireplace, consider having it lit to add ambiance. Soft blankets, plush rugs, and warm-toned décor can enhance the cozy feeling.
- Lighting: With less natural light available, good interior lighting is essential. Use warm-toned bulbs and layer your lighting with lamps, overhead lights, and candles to create a welcoming glow. Bright, blue lighting isn’t very selling.
- Open Curtains and Blinds: Keep curtains and blinds open during the day to let in sunlight. Choose light, airy window treatments that don’t block too much light.
- Protect Your Floors: With wet or snowy conditions, floors can easily become dirty. Place mats at all entryways and consider providing booties for buyers to wear over their shoes.
3. Smell Check
Scent plays a powerful role in how we perceive a space. In the colder months, we tend to leave our windows closed, which keeps all the indoor pollution trapped inside.
- Clean all smelly items: Before each visit, make sure the garbage and sport equipment/shoes don’t smell strong. Wash the pet beds, and change the litter box if necessary.
- Consider using subtle scents: Cinnamon, pine, or vanilla scents evoke a sense of comfort and hominess. Don’t forget: SUBTLE! Some people might have allergies or think you are trying to cover up a humidity smell.
4. Maintain a Comfortable Temperature
Heating System: Ensure your heating system is in good working order before showings begin. Consider having it serviced by a professional to avoid any last-minute issues.
Draft Prevention: Check for drafts around windows and doors, and make any necessary repairs. A cold draft can quickly turn off potential buyers.
Selling your home in the fall and winter months offers a unique opportunity to showcase it as a warm, inviting retreat from the cold. By preparing for the season by enhancing curb appeal and creating a cozy interior, you can make your home stand out in the real estate market. With thoughtful preparation, your home can sell quickly for a good price, no matter the month!
