Thinking Winter Isn’t The Right Time To Sell?

Take advantage of the cold winter to sell your home or cottage during this hot market! With inventory low, this Seller’s market is enticing for those who didn’t find their dream home last year and are eager to get a jump on the pre-spring market. If your cottage is not winterized, it is not detrimental to the sale of your cottage as buyers understand that certain systems are shut down for the winter season.

Here Are Some Tips For Selling In The Winter

• Ensure your driveway and walkways are clear of snow and if icy, sand the walking areas. This is not just for photos, but for showings as well.
• Don’t discount landscaping. Counteract grey skies with some seasonal landscaping such as evergreen shrubs or add small pops of colour around the yard and try some wreaths or holly at the front door.
• Tune-up winter systems. Imagine coming into a showing and the house is freezing! Make sure there are no malfunctions, get your furnace and fireplace inspected and make necessary repairs. If safe to do so, put on a fire.
• Seal up drafts. A drafty home can signal to buyers that something may be wrong with the heating system, or that the current owners have fallen behind on repairs. New caulking, adding insulation, and replacing weather stripping are all inexpensive and go a long way.
• Lights. With shorter days you want to make sure your house is fully lit, inside, and out. Even when you’re not expecting anyone, Buyers can do a drive by, so make sure your home looks inviting. If you are selling your cottage and not up there a lot, set up a timer for your exterior lights.
• Declutter. Homes that are clean and free of clutter are more appealing to Buyers. They will be able to picture themselves living there. Usually, these homes sell quicker and for more money. Since you will have to pack up when you move, grab some moving boxes before picture day and pack excessive items now.
• Off-season. Gather your best summer pictures, summer sunsets, and waterfront pictures for your realtor to add to your listing.

Winter Staging

• Create warmth and coziness in each room by adding throw blankets and pillows.
• Decorate for the holidays but do keep it simple. Overly cluttered decorations can be a real turnoff. Christmassy candles and wintery plants can add warmth and seasonal scents.
• If possible, show off your outdoor rooms or outdoor fireplace areas. Set them up and show off how cozy it can be year-round. Turn on the lights, light up the fire and put some throw blankets out.

Give us a call and we can talk more about listing your home or cottage this winter.