The final decision has been made: your house will be hitting the market this upcoming season and you are anticipating no one at your door during the frigid months to follow. In my recent experience, my busiest time has been during the course of the last remaining months of the year, regardless of some major factors: holidays, vacations, exams, etc. Here are some features to emphasize on.
1. SUMMER PHOTOS
If I know a client is preparing for a fall/winter listing date, I make sure to prepare a photographer in advance in order to take those summer shots. If this is a new client, asking for possible personal pictures to contribute can serve as a good reference point of what the home can look like in the hotter months.
2. CURB APPEAL
Make sure to have all the necessities needed for when it comes to visits. Have your walk-way thoroughly cleared from any fall debris or snow. This also shows lack of care towards the maintenance from the get-go.
3. DURABILITY
Winter-proof your home and make sure the heat is set to a good temperature during visits. It is important to inform potential buyers of any updates that were made to withstand the harsher months: roof was outdated, yet you just had it redone. Newer windows? A change to a high-efficiency heating system? These are important to know.
4. COZYNESS
Create an inviting setting! Turn your fireplace on, use rich fabrics & light some candles. Some even change pillows and throws to adapt to the season change. Show how cozy your home can be and make them envision a peaceful refuge within your four walls.
5. LET THERE BE LIGHT
Maximize natural lighting during day visits by opening up curtains with the inclusion of turning all lights on. For night visits, ensure that bulbs are functional and that rooms are well lit up. Should a room feel dark, look for the option of potentially adding an extra lamp. Should you have a great exterior lighting system, make sure to put that on as well.
6. NO OVERKILL
Understandably, it is the holidays and we certainly like to decorate for family and guests. More modern holiday décor has been on the rise and can possibly suit your needs to decorate AND list your home at the same time. Too many colored lights can blindside potential buyers, along with the smell of holiday scented candles.
