Top tips for selling a property in winter

Most people will tell you that buying or selling a property in winter isn’t wise. But that’s a bit of a myth. If you’re planning to sell, the season could be perfect.

We won’t say that it’s always easy, as the number of buyers tends to fall. That, however, is one of the bonuses: if someone’s looking in winter then they’re probably serious about buying!

All you have to do is adapt your approach as the sales market cools. So if you’re selling a property in Washington, here are our tips to help you improve the chances of a quick sale.

Remember kerb appeal

When selling in summer, your garden is in bloom and prospective buyers will admire nature’s handiwork. That doesn’t really change in winter as a warm welcome will make them feel more at home.

Having half the house in darkness will send out the wrong message, so make it welcoming. Think about new-build developers – they’ll always make the property look welcoming with lights on when people arrive.

That’s because they know they’re selling a dream and a lifestyle.

While costs are rising, remember to replace all your bulbs with energy efficient ones. And remember to switch lights on 30 minutes before your potential buyers arrive as they maybe early and might wait outside.

When it’s winter, you’ve got to work even harder in your garden than summer. Pick up leaves and trim dead plants to ensure the garden looks loved. Consider buying some inexpensive outside lanterns to give the exterior a more inviting appearance.

Trip the natural light fantastic

Natural light makes everything appear brighter than artificial light. But in Tyne and Wear, the hours of daylight are short and the sun won’t necessarily be shining. So, make sure to book viewings as early as possible in the day, especially at weekends.

Open blinds and curtains to allow as much natural light into your property as possible and keep your windows clean. Believe it or not, something so simple really does allow more natural light into your rooms.

Give a warm welcome

While ensuring the outside of your home appears to offer a warm welcome, you’ll undo your good work if it’s like a fridge inside.

By creating a cosy and homely atmosphere it’s more likely to feel welcoming. Plus, it proves your heating works! Make sure rooms you don’t normally use have radiators on and if you have a fire (even an artificial one) put it on so it feels like home to anyone viewing. Make sure heating is put on an hour before anyone arrives so every room is radiating warmth.

Dress for the occasion

That’s the house, not you, by the way! If it’s almost Christmas, then put up decorations, even if you’re not living at the property. Put on Christmas candles to  evoke memories and dress your living and reception rooms to offer a real ‘wow’ factor. It will make a difference.

Be price sensitive

While there are always people looking for a property, the number of enquiries will fall over winter. This is often because people are planning for Christmas and away visiting family. Others don’t like the idea of going out in wind, rain or sleet. Savvy buyers know this will give them more choice of properties.

So, make sure you price realistically. If it’s down to the numbers, a buyer may choose a different property because its lower. We’re not saying you should reduce prices massively, but remember market forces and when there are fewer buyers, a lower price might be the factor that attracts an offer.

If you’re selling a house in Washington, Birtley, Houghton le Spring or Sunderland, contact our team of experts today.