Planning on selling a home in winter? Here is everything you need to know to make your home selling process smooth.
Winter is not traditionally the season known for selling houses in Ottawa. The most popular time of year to sell a home is typically spring. Homes and properties can look dreary in the winter and buyers are often discouraged from getting out and seeing houses on the market let alone moving into a new home during this time of year. Despite these notions, selling your home in the winter can be a successful experience and even has its benefits.
The good about selling your home in the winter
During the winter, there is lower inventory in the housing market which means there is less competition. You will surely be up against less homes in your neighborhood and price range if you sell during the winter and buyers will have fewer properties to choose from, making your property a commodity. Showing your home to potential buyers in the winter months is a great opportunity to showcase that the house is designed to withstand harsh seasons and can be a great time to show off some of the appealing features like a fireplace or hot tub.
Winter is a great time to expect serious buyers. It’s good to remember that not all people looking at houses have an intention to buy. Many who attend open houses in the spring are simply interested in making a move and want to see what is on the market. In the months of December, January and February, you can expect buyers to come prepared to make a purchase if they find the right home for them. If your house is right for a potential buyer, they won’t want to risk missing out by waiting to make an offer in the busy months of spring.
Tips on selling your home in the winter
Daylight begins to fade early during winter, so brightening up your home inside and out is very important. Be sure to turn on all lights in the house including closets and lights on the appliances. Keep all your blinds open and push back your drapes to allow every bit of sunlight through your windows. Make sure your windows are clean to let as much light in as possible. You should consider painting darker rooms white or beige before you put your house on the market in the winter as this will brighten them up.
Potential buyers form an opinion on your home before they even step foot inside. Keep your curb appeal high by investing in outdoor lighting during these darker times of the year. Keep your doors and pathways safely accessible by shovelling, even the lightest snow can become slippery in low temperatures. Salt or sand your walkways to ensure all your visitors can get to your doors with ease. Have a rubber mat inside your door for people to put their wet boots and consider buying a new outdoor mat for a warm welcome at your front door.
Stage the ambiance of your home to be warm and welcoming. Turn your furnace up a bit higher than usual and if you have a fireplace, be sure to light it. Winter is a great time to offer your potential buyers a hot drink such as apple cider or cocoa. With warm temperatures inside on a cold day and welcoming beverages or snacks, visitors are sure to stay longer, see your entire home and ask all the questions they might have about their potential dream home.
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If you are seeking advice on selling a home in the Ottawa area, or have more questions for us, we are happy to provide you with helpful guidance and support. Email us at info@buyandsellottawa.ca or call us at 613-590-3036.