Winter can be a tough season to tackle a big move, especially for military families with PCS orders. With chilly weather and shorter days, the urge to hunker down and hibernate is nearly irresistible. If you find yourself in this position, it’s time to push past the winter blues and make your home shine.
And if you're thinking, How can I sell my home in the winter?, don't worry. Even though winter isn’t the typical peak season for real estate, you can turn cozy vibes into the ultimate selling advantage, whether you're doing a For Sale By Owner or utilizing the services of a real estate agent.
Prepare the Home for Winter Buyers
Preparing your home for winter buyers is about combating the cold air outside by creating a warm, inviting first impression that reaches as far as the road.
1. Enhance curb appeal despite the cold.
- Shovel snow, salt icy walkways, and clear driveways to ensure safe and easy access.
- Add seasonal touches like a simple wreath or string of lights, or fill planters with hearty greenery to counter the bareness of winter.
- Check that your exterior lights are working, as showings are often in dim light or after dark. Good lighting adds to curb appeal and makes it easier for buyers to navigate.
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2. Aim for a cozy and comfortable interior.
Buyers should immediately feel warm and at ease when they step inside. Seal up any drafts and check your heating system to confirm it’s working efficiently. Consider setting the thermostat a little higher during showings for an extra-cozy vibe. A cold house in winter will turn off buyers.
If you have a fireplace, consider staging it with a few logs or even lighting it during open houses. Fireplaces make homes feel welcoming and allow buyers to envision themselves in the space.
3. Showcase cleanliness and care.
Winter brings mud, salt, and slush, which tracks inside easily. Keep the entryways, floors, and carpets clean. A good mat by the door and shoe covers for guests can help maintain a polished look.
If you have pets, pay extra attention to their areas to keep them fresh and fur-free. Keeping everything neat ensures buyers see the best version of your home.
Maximize Light and Space
The shorter, darker days make your home seem more confined. Showcasing that your home is welcoming, airy, and well-lit, even on a gloomy day, can make all the difference.
1. Brighten up with lighting.
- Use brighter light bulbs or add lamps to dark corners to create an even glow throughout the house.
- Open blinds and curtains to let in as much natural light as possible. For windows with minimal sunlight, consider adding sheer curtains that allow light through without making the room feel too dim or heavy.
- Use warm-toned bulbs in lamps and fixtures to create a cozy atmosphere.
2. Use strategic staging.
- Prioritize decluttering, especially in entryways and living spaces, to help rooms feel open and organized.
- Minimize bulky furniture or arrange it to create more walking space. For example, pull furniture slightly away from walls to create an illusion of depth and keep walkways clear so buyers can move through rooms effortlessly.
- Consider adding mirrors to reflect light and visually expand spaces. Placing a mirror across from a window or light source can double the impact of your lighting and make rooms feel more spacious.
3. Give all surfaces a thorough cleaning.
Regularly clean all surfaces, windows, and mirrors. A sparkling home gives the impression of extra care and maintenance, which appeals to buyers.
Keep surfaces like countertops, tables, and shelves clear of clutter. Limiting decorations to a few tasteful pieces helps rooms feel open and makes it easier for buyers to picture their own belongings in the space.
4. Opt for light, neutral colors.
While dark colors can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, they might make a room appear smaller. Light, neutral tones can brighten spaces and give an open impression. Consider a light-colored throw, pillows, rugs, or blankets to soften a room's look without repainting.
If you’re open to a bit of touch-up work, painting a few accent walls in a soft, neutral color can enhance the feeling of spaciousness and create a fresh look that feels inviting to winter buyers.
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Emphasize Winter-Friendly Home Features
Winter homebuyers gravitate toward features that make a house feel warm, cozy, and efficient in cold weather. Highlighting winter-friendly elements of your home can help it stand out.
If your home has energy-efficient windows or upgraded insulation, include this information in a binder for buyers to peruse. These features are highly desirable as they help keep heating bills down and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Flexibility Is Key
With winter weather, short days, and hectic holiday schedules, flexible scheduling is crucial for successful showings.
- Accommodate weather-related rescheduling. Snow or icy roads may force last-minute changes. Being open to rescheduling a missed showing builds trust with potential buyers by communicating their safety is a priority.
- Offer virtual tours and video walkthroughs. Virtual options allow buyers to explore your home even if they can’t visit in person. This inclusion is helpful for other relocating military families or buyers on tight schedules.
- Adjust showing hours. Consider showing the home in the early evening or late afternoon to capture natural light.
- Stay “show-ready” for last-minute viewings. Winter often brings surprise visits. Keeping your home tidy and entryways clear allows you to be ready for any drop-ins and potentially get more showings.
- If you’re doing a For Sale By Owner or FSBO, remember to offer the facts but allow visitors to take it in for themselves.
While selling your home in winter poses some unique obstacles, you can still make a great impression on buyers with some smart changes. With these cold-weather home selling tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful sale, no matter the season.
Winter or spring, no matter what time of year, we've created a resource just for you. See our free guide below designed to help you sell your home.
