Is it spring yet? Brr, it has been cold outside! No one can blame you if all you feel like doing is curling up in front of a fire with a cup of hot cocoa and good book!
Many people assume that they need to wait until spring to list their homes for sale. I mean, selling a home is difficult enough without adding in bitterly cold temperatures and snow! But if you are thinking about selling your home, don’t overlook winter . There are some key advantages to selling in winter.
Less competition for buyers
If you’ve been paying attention to the real estate markets in Northern Virginia, you’ll likely know that we have been in a seller’s market for awhile. There have been more buyers than sellers in the market. However, the number of available homes for sale typically drops significantly in the winter. Many sellers don’t want to deal with keeping their homes show-ready during the holidays, or they mistakenly believe that there are fewer buyers during the winter months.
The Internet doesn’t recognize seasons
For the savvy seller, they know that buyers don’t just disappear in the winter. They can search year round from their couch, while in their jammies and watching the latest episode of NCIS. And with fewer homes on the market to choose from, those who are serious buyers will not be deterred by bad weather. Those are the buyers you want! Motivated buyers who may have to make a competitive offer make fewer demands on the seller!
You home has its best foot forward
More than likely you made your home sparkle and shine for the holidays. The threat of impending guests likely had you deep cleaning every nook and cranny, the inside of the fridge and the oven, and many other places that are often overlooked. Why not take advantage of all your hard work?
Winter pictures, often taken at night with all the interior lights turned on, look simply stunning. Tasteful holiday decor, like wreaths on the door or a simple tree with white lights on the porch can add tasteful elegance to your real estate photos.
Showing your home in winter
Many people assume that showing a home in winter is difficult. It’s really not. The key is just to show off the warmth and comfort of your home, which may not be as easily apparent in the summer. Lay a brightly colored throw across the chaise lounge, get the fire going in the fireplace, turn on all the lights, and have a pot of chili simmering in the crock pot. Make sure your entryway is spotless (which can be challenging when your family tracks in snow and salt from their shoes).
You can even showcase your garden. No, don’t kill any plants by putting them outside. Just display some interesting hardscape features, like retaining walls, concrete urns, pergolas, statues, etc.
We are experts in helping our clients prepare and stage their homes for the best possible sale, in any season. We are here to help! As always, if you or someone you know need help selling or finding a dream home in 2018, please do not hesitate to call us. Contact Jason at 703-298-7037 or SandersNoVA@gmail.com.
