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How to sell your house during winter

Posted on May 31st, 2022 by Compton


When it comes to selling your home during winter, we won't leave you out in the cold! Although it can be slightly more challenging as people bunker down to stay out of the cold, there are still plenty of reasons why winter can be the perfect time to sell your house. 

There are a lot of preconceived notions that winter is a more challenging time to sell your property. However, with less competition and more motivated buyers, it’s absolutely possible to get a good price in winter, plus it can also be a wonderful time to showcase the best features in your home.

If you're preparing to put your home on the market this winter, it’s important that your house becomes a haven from the outside elements for the buyers who are braving the cold. In order to make your place stand out, here are some tips to keep in mind to make the most out of selling your house in the colder seasons. 

Cosiness 

The Danish word ‘Hygge’ (pronounced “hoo-ga”), is a concept that cannot be translated into one single word, but encompasses a feeling of cosy contentment and is an important way of life for the Danes,helping them through their chilly winters. To take a leaf from our Scandanavian friends, use these elements as your guide to creating a ‘hygge’ space.

Warmth

Entering a warm and welcoming house will immediately put buyers at ease. Chuck on the fireplace, turn up the heaters and make buyers feel like they want to snuggle up in your home. 

Lighting

Lighting is a critical element for cosiness in winter. Not only should you try to plan your inspection at the time of day with the most sun, but you should also make use of artificial lights with warm hues. So pull back the curtains, turn on all lamps to banish dark corners and induce an inviting, cosy glow.  

Textures

Use a combination of textures like thick blankets, oversized rugs over hard floor surfaces, ottomans and chunky wool knits. Mixing these elements make buyers feel like they’re entering a snug sanctuary.

Prepare for the elements

Since weather is difficult to predict, make sure you are prepared for a rainy winter's day. Be ready with a place to stow away wet umbrellas, raincoats and muddy shoes, to prevent footprints and puddles on your clean floors. It might also be a good idea to leave a polite sign asking visitors to remove any wet items. This not only keeps everything looking great, but indicates to buyers that the property has been well maintained and cared for. 

Clear the air

Before your inspection, make sure you open the windows to let in enough fresh air to make sure your home doesn't feel stale and musty. Since the house has been shut up to fend off the cold, pick the right time before the inspection that will allow you to let some air in, but also ensure you leave enough time to warm it up again before opening the house. 

Tidying Up

This one is important for a winter inspection, especially if you’ve left your decluttering for spring cleaning. It’s a good idea to bring your outdoor furniture out of the shed, do some upkeep on the garden, sweep the patio and empty the gutters. These jobs may be overlooked as they are usually left for the warmer months.  
 

By following this guide, you will create a warm and cosy atmosphere for your house that will ease the difficulties that can come with putting your house on the market in the winter months. By enticing your buyers with an inviting and comfortable environment, away from the harsh outdoors, you are transforming your house into a cosy sanctuary that buyers will want to call home.