Contrary to popular opinion, nowadays property activity does not markedly change!

In this week’s edition, we discuss:

Contrary to popular opinion, nowadays property activity does not markedly change with the seasons, which makes it a good time for savvy sellers to take advantage of a less competitive market. However, marketing homes in winter – when the weather can be against you, trees are bare, gardens lack colour and interest, and the average viewer takes just seconds to judge a house on first sight – means taking extra steps to lessen the seasonal fallout and make your home irresistible to potential buyers.

• Kerb appeal is all-important year-round but particularly in winter. Assuming external checks and maintenance have been undertaken, tidy the garden and invest in some shrubs or winter-flowering plants in portable planters to frame the front door, and/ or add a festive wreath. Use external lighting if you have it – a porch light always looks welcoming and solar-powered lights can be used to good effect to highlight a feature or illuminate paths, plants, and driveways. A snowy landscape can make the garden look pretty and cover a multitude of sins, but ensure paths are de-iced and cleared.
• Make ‘warm, cosy and homely’ your mantra. Welcome viewers into a warm home with a lit fire if you have one as the main feature. Heat bedrooms or spare rooms in advance to maintain an even temperature with no sudden cold spots. Viewers who are cold and uncomfortable will not linger.
• Lighting follows the same rule. After dark, switch on all the lights avoiding harsh overhead lights in preference for softer mood lighting. Making the most of natural light for daytime viewing calls for sparkling clean windows with blinds pulled up, and curtains/shutters open.
• A Christmas tree can enhance a room but don’t go overboard with fairy lights and decorations or they can become a distraction. The same goes for external decorations.
• Use scented candles infused with seasonal fragrances – avoid using room strays or plug-in fresheners as some people can be sensitive or allergic to the chemicals they contain.

Finally, selling in winter – or anytime during the year – calls for de-cluttering your home as much as possible by removing any unnecessary smaller items of furniture, ornaments, and personal items to enhance the feeling of space and give potential buyers the opportunity to visualize their own furniture and possessions in the house.