Tips for Showing Your Home in Winter
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| Tips for showing your home in winter | | | |
Here in the Boston area, many folks feel that spring/summer are the best seasons to market your home, but facts tell me that buyers are out there right now taking advantage of low interest rates! In fact, our historic thoughts on real estate have been turned upside down in the past few years.
A recent study of the local market area proves that homes are moving, and quickly too, if they appeal to buyers!
There are a few things that you can do to maximize your home's appeal during winter months.
Safety. The most obvious thing is safety. Make sure that your driveway and walks are clear of leaves, snow or ice prior to a showing. Use ice melt, sand or whatever is necessary to enable a sure footing. If at all possible, make it easy to park. You don't want people thinking about how and where cars are going to go when the weather is white.
Turn Up The Heat. There is no question that we are all trying conserve these days, but this is not the time. I can not tell you how many homes a buyer has gotten out of post haste because they were uncomfortable. A warm home is a comforting home. Make sure the temperature will be at a comfortable level for showings. Use a programmable thermostat if you are uneasy leaving the heat up for the entire day.
Light, Light, Light. Yes, the other three L's of real estate! Winter can be a time of bright natural light. If so, let it in, and in a big way. Keep those blinds and curtains up! (Don't forget to have those windows clean, because for some reason in this winter light the streaks really show!) Getting to be late in the day? Make sure those room lights are left on. You want the buyer to not only feel comfortable and warm, but to see the rooms as they enter them without fumbling to get those lights up. Again, take advantage of technology and rely on timers if need be. The more light the better. It would be very hard to overdue here. Don't forget the basement. Light that up too!
Protect Your Floors. Upon entering your home, folks may have
wet feet. Provide a place for them to take off their footwear or at
the very least dry them off before viewing your home. You, or your
Realtor, might also provide "booties" for folks to put over their
shoes.
Consider the Scents of the Season. Odors can be very prominent when entering a home from the crisp, cool air. There is nothing like the aroma of fresh baked cookies or comfort food .... but ease up on the candles, the floral or unnatural scents.
Set a Mood. Use your fireplace (if safe to do so). Some well placed books and throws on an easy chair, or a sled on the deck can go a long way to say "warmth". People tend to want to hang in or entertain. Stage your home to that advantage which suits your property!
Use Photographs to Show Other Seasons. I feel this is very important. Do you have spectacular gardens or a pool? Woods that add charm, privacy and appeal to your home. Showcase these seasons with an array of photographs. It will help the buyer visualize your home at other times of the year. Remember that if there is a heavy coat of snow, the buyers will not be able to see your lawn. Buyers will feel more comfortable with a set of photos showing them what it looked like last year.
In Summary
A recent study of the local market area proves that homes are moving, and quickly too, if they appeal to buyers! Follow these tips to selling your home during the winter months and your home will be sold regardless of the season!
So go ahead. Get that house on the market!!
I have been selling real estate locally for the past 25 years. Give me a call and we can get you move! 508-494-9061 or email Cal@AlandCal.com
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About the author
Carol-Ann Palmieri,
a full time Real Estate professional in Massachusetts for the past 25
years along with Al Mussi have helped hundreds of families find, sell or
purchase new places to live.
A former US Marine, she grew up in Walpole, MA... is committed to
the serving the community through various volunteer opportunities. She
attended MA Bay Community and Suffolk University and is committed
to constantly updating her Real Estate education.
Licensed in MA and RI...
Al and Cal's primary areas of service Franklin, Bellingham, Medway,
Millis, Medfield, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Blackstone, Walpole,
Milford, Holliston, Hopkinton, Mansfield, and Foxboro, North Attleboro,
Norwood, Hopedale, Mendon, Millville but have resourses to help anyone,
anywhere....
Her mission.... To exceed your expectations!
Carol-Ann Palmieri
Al and Cal Realty Group
508-494-9061
