When the weather is cold, wet, or a combination of the two, creating a cozy, warm home will ensure your property is a space that potential buyers will love. Our real estate agents recommend doing the following items to maximize your home’s charm when selling in a winter real estate market.
- See That Your Home is Toasty and Inviting
A home that’s cold and drafty won’t feel like a winter haven to prospective buyers. Make sure that your thermostat is set at a comfortable temperature before a showing or open house. If you’re away from your home during the day and want to minimize your energy usage, consider installing a smart thermostat. You can then use a mobile app to bump up the temperature as needed, so your home is a welcoming temperature for potential buyers. - Create a Cozy Ambiance
Spend a little time establishing a cozy ambiance in your home; not only will this make your property more appealing to homebuyers, but they’ll have an easier time envisioning themselves making a life in your home. Add throw pillows, soft throw blankets, and lightly scented candles. Put out your plush, luxurious hand towels and kitchen linens. Play classical or smooth jazz music to create a relaxing atmosphere. If your home has a fireplace, spend a few minutes laying a fire before potential buyers arrive. - Maximize Your Home’s Lighting
Daylight is in short supply during the winter months, making it even more important to maximize the amount of light in your home. During daytime showings and open houses, draw your blinds to let as much light in as possible. Make sure that your windows are clean so that dirt and grime don’t obscure any light. Go through your home, and ensure every lighting fixture has a light bulb. Consider swapping your old bulbs for amber-colored bulbs to give your home a lovely, inviting glow. - Opt for Classic, Elegant Holiday Decor
If your home is on the market during the holiday season, it’s okay (and even advisable) to put up a few holiday decorations. However, instead of putting up your biggest Christmas inflatable or niche Christmas decor, opt for pieces that are more likely to have a universal appeal. Poinsettias, simple wreaths, and garlands tend to appeal to a variety of people. It’s fine to put up a Christmas tree but stick with a muted color scheme instead of a multitude of colors. For your outdoor decor, a few strands of white lights will do an excellent job of adding seasonal illumination. - See That Your Home’s Maintenance is Up-to-Date
Buyers are especially weary of ill-maintained homes during the winter months, as these properties will have higher heating costs that will increase their long-term expenses. Check that all your home’s windows and doors have ample weather stripping and are free of holes and cracks; this ensures that cold air remains outside. If your home’s exterior paint needs a touch-up, make sure to pay attention to the weather before scheduling any painting sessions. Paint will look its best when applied between temperatures of 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. You may need to postpone painting until the spring or wait for a bout of unseasonably warm weather. Should the forecast include snow and ice, keep your home’s driveway, walkways, and paths clear of precipitation.
Though the winter months create a few challenges when selling a home, taking steps to prepare your property will help it look its best, even during cold, snowy weather. Ready to list your home among Great Neck homes for sale? Contact us to get started.