As we approach mid-winter the temperatures may be cooling but the property market isn’t! You may have been told that the best time to sell a home is during spring and summer, but here at Bayleys Marlborough we think this is one of real estate’s greatest misconceptions, we’re confident that our expert team can sell your home whatever the season. However, it is fair to say that when selling in winter you may wish to reconsider the preparations you make for open homes and viewings to fit the season. We prepared a list of our top tips to help you!
Preparing your home inside:
Let there be light – Don’t leave your prospective purchasers in the dark… Check your lightbulbs to make sure all your lights are working, leave the lights on in the house for your open homes and consider adding a few extra table lamps around your house; these will add cheer on a gloomy winter day.
Warm the cockles of their hearts – If you have a fire, light it. Who doesn’t feel cosy at the sight of a log fire? If not pop the heat pump on and switch on any underfloor heating in the tiled areas to pre-warm the house. Don’t forget the back rooms, if you have a cold spot in your home, these seem worse when you come from a pre-warmed living area, so you might need to borrow or invest in a column or fan heater to warm these areas before your prospective buyers arrive.
Get cosy – Add some warm touches to your home… Invest in some extra comforters, blankets and cushions in warm colours like red and burnt orange. It’s easy to evoke feelings of warmth and comfort when your prospective buyers come in from the cold; a folded comforter at the foot of the bed or warm throw on the couch, a beautifully plumped cushion, or even the simplicity of a lit candle in a coloured votive.
Embrace Hygge – Take some design inspiration from Denmark. Hygge (pronounced hue-guh) is a Danish and Norwegian word which can be described as a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being. Find out more HERE.
Preparing your home outside:
Wash away the winter grime – It’s tricky to repaint exteriors that might need a little TLC in winter, but getting rid of leaves, cobwebs and winter debris, then giving your paintwork a good wash will make things seem much cheerier!
Let there be light – Yes outside too! String up some fairy lights or garlands to highlight the garden’s possibilities and entertaining areas.
Pots and planters – Planted areas can look dull in the winter, so add a splash of colour with some pots and planters.
