While winter isn't traditionally considered the best time to sell your home, there's no reason you can't get an offer during the colder months with the right staging. In fact, a study found that homes sold faster and for more money in the winter months, even in cold cities like Chicago. Here are five winter home staging tips that can increase your appeal to potential buyers.
1. Clear the Walkways
Whether you live in an area with heavy snow all winter or
you've had a big storm on a day with several showings scheduled, all areas of
the yard should be accessible for buyers. That means not only making sure
there's a safe, snow-free path to the front door, but also that paths are
cleared to any outdoor areas the buyer will want to view. This means sheds,
patios, garages and recreation areas. And while entries can get grimy if your
family is in and out with their boots on, this area should be kept spotless and
clear of debris.
2. Let There Be Light
Although our instinct in winter is to hunker down indoors,
put your home in its best light by opening all shades and draperies, as well as
turning on all available light sources (including closet lights). The exception?
Turn off televisions and computers, which don't necessarily add to the warm
glow you're trying to achieve.
3. Keep It Toasty
Speaking of a warm glow, your home should project a feeling
of warmth to potential buyers when it's cold outside. If you have a fireplace
that's in good condition, that's a great place to start. Try setting your
thermostat a degree or two higher than usual to give buyers a reason to linger
instead of heading back out into the weather.
4. Embrace the Holidays
While REALTORS® usually advise packing away personal
belongings when staging a home to create a clean canvas for buyers, tasteful
holiday decorations can help create the warm, family feel you're trying to
achieve. Think lush wreaths, a tree with inviting white lights and candles in
the windows for subtle yet powerful emotional appeal.
5. Don't Ignore the Outdoors
Although your landscaping won't look as gorgeous as it does
in the spring, pots of evergreens can help add some color to your walkways and
yard. Always make sure that gutters are cleaned and shrubs are trimmed, too.
Beverly Stermer REALTOR®
Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.
16 Gosnell Crossing STE 102
Staunton, VA 24401
Cell: 540-294-3145
Office: 540-997-3300
As always, I am never too busy for your referrals!
Article by Dixie Somers
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