The winter months are often considered the “off-season” in real estate, but according to Redfin, homes listed between December and March sell faster than homes listed in other months, and for more money!
With competition low and buyers serious, the winter months can be an ideal time to list your home and according to Redfin, February is hands down the best month to list! Redfin’s analysis of nationwide listings showed that 74% of homes listed in February sold within 90 days and 13% of them sold for more than the list price. In comparison, during the month of September only 61% of homes sold within 90 days and only 5% sold above list price.
Here are some tips to make the biggest splash when listing your home for sale during the winter months:
1. DON’T IGNORE THE CURB APPEAL
Just because the grass isn’t green and the flowers are not blooming does not mean landscaping can be ignored during the winter season! As always, a potential buyer’s first impression of your home is from the street, so take the time to make sure your home looks its best from the outside as well. Neatly shoveling the driveway, sidewalks and porch can go a long way. If your shrubs need pruning, there is no reason to wait till spring!
When the days are gray, nothing will draw attention to your home more than a freshly painted, brightly colored front door! Go the extra mile and update the address plates and exterior light fixtures – be sure to leave the entry way lights on and your home will look cozy and inviting to all those potential buyers.
2. BRIGHTEN IT UP
When it comes to the interior of your home, you want to make sure it is bright and inviting, no matter how gray and dreary it might be outside. Painting the rooms a light neutral color is a great way to offset the poor natural light of the winter months. Be sure to turn on plenty of lights throughout the home so the rooms feel warm and inviting.
3. WARM & INVITING
Nothing worse than walking into an inviting home only to find yourself cold and shivering! Don’t forget to leave the heat on when you are expecting a showing. If your home has a fireplace, make sure it is lit. A throw blanket and stack of wood next to the fireplace will make potential buyers want to cozy up with a book right then and there.
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