Over 90% of home buyers begin their search for a new home online – from the comfort of their couch. The truth is, today’s instant access to listings across the country has dramatically altered the formula for seasonal home buying. Here are our top tips on How to Sell in a Winter Real Estate Market. Spring is still the hottest season for home shopping, however, there are real benefits to selling your home in the winter you might not realize:
- A winter home buyer is a serious buyer – usually working around a relocation or lease expiration
- Many home buyers are utilizing time off for the holidays to optimize their home shopping
- Winter home buyers might be motivated to purchase a new home before the end of the year for tax benefits
- Fewer home sellers will be on the market in winter, which means fewer homes for buyers to choose from
Upgrade your outdoor lighting.
Winter days are shorter and it gets dark early. Brighten up your home’s exterior with path lighting or spotlights. Add a timer to maintain a cozy glow for potential buyers who might drive by. For more ideas read our 5 Fast, Easy, & Budget-Friendly Upgrades for Your Home.
Take down those decorations.
The holidays were great, but if they are over, your decorations should be as well. Lights and an inflatable snowman have no place in your listing photos. If you’re selling before the holidays, keep your decorations simple and tasteful so as not to overpower your home’s exterior or interior.
Hire a professional.
Another tip on how to sell in a winter market is to hire a professional real estate agent and stager. Look for local agents with a proven track record, who is familiar with the ins and outs of the market and your neighborhood. Many agents promote the sale before the house goes to market. Also, consider a professional stager who knows what works for the sale and how to get the job done in the most efficient way possible.
Don’t forget the curb appeal.
Gray winter skies and bare trees are no reason to let your landscaping go downhill. Use fresh mulch and seasonal colors to add life to your hard and the front of your house. Remove dead leaves, vegetation and branches.
Low-Cost Projects to Help You Sell Your Home
Social Media Real Estate Marketing
Your real estate agent will be doing the bulk of the work as far as your marketing. However, that’s no reason to do a little (or a lot) of marketing on your own. Use social media to create a campaign of your own. Share your listing on sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Look for local Facebook groups that revolve around local home buyers and sellers and post your details.
Making a move at the end of the year may not feel like an ideal situation, but with our tips on How to Sell in a Winter Market, you will see you are not alone. More importantly, our tips may help you sell at a faster rate.