Let’s face it, winter is the one time of year where it’s perfectly acceptable to spend every free second inside your home, bundled up and out of plain sight from your neighbors and friends. And with the gloom and cold that comes with the season, the housing market has coined the phrase “off season,” to describe the lethargic slowdown the real estate market sees this time of year.
But have no fear if you’re hoping to sell. While it may seem the deck isn’t stacked in your favor, we have three tips to help make your home stand-out and improve your chances of making a sale before the warmer months bloom.
1. “Lighten” and spruce up your home
Speaking of the cold and gloomy weather, make sure your home has plenty of natural light. Install bright and flowy curtains and consider hanging mirrors around your windows to help reflect natural light into your home. Spruce up the outside by removing any dead leaves, branches or debris that may be on your lawn to ensure curb appeal is at its best, and add a fresh coat of paint to your front door. Making sure that your home is turn-key, will help potential buyers feel they can move in right away.
2. Take advantage of the dip in home inventory
The truth is homes do sell year-round but with fewer homes on the market this time of year, this is your time to shine. The inventory is low and with many homeowners waiting to put their houses on the market in the spring, the competition is lower and supply versus demand is in your favor. So, crank up the furnace, bake some cookies and be ready to host a few open houses to prospective buyers.
3. Install a firepit
A cozy fireplace is ideal this time of year, but not every home has one or is equipped for an easy installation of one. This is where an outdoor fire pit comes in. A recent survey from the American Society of Landscape Architects found that fire pits are one of the most popular outdoor design elements. They’re ideal for year-round entertaining and create an inviting and warm atmosphere. And with the cost to install one starting at around $300, it’s a great investment to help your home stand out on the market.
So, if you’ve been worrisome about selling your home in the winter months, take it from us that it’s a great time to sell. With the low inventory and ability to create a warm and cozy experience for potential buyers, use this winter to your advantage and place your home on the market!
If you’re unsure or have any questions at all about the current home buying market, contact us today at 919-295-9298 or send us an email at: [email protected]
We’re here to help!
