Attracting Homebuyers in the Winter Months
Sue Carr December 17, 2014
Seeing a snow covered photo looks a little out of place on a San Diego real estate website, I know! But this article is targeted not only for my local market, but for all those poor souls in other parts of the country that are dreaming about moving here and thinking about waiting to list their homes. Don't wait!!!
As temperatures drop, snow piles up and people's minds turn to holiday celebrations, you may think that your house won't sell. In fact, many people take their homes off the market during this time and wait for spring to relist them. Unfortunately, not everyone has the luxury of waiting. If you want to sell your home now, consider changing up what you're offering.
Location, location, location
Especially in winter, a home's location is important. So, if your home is near to public transportation access and major roads likely to be kept plowed or cleared, or conversely, it is near to winter sports and recreation, highlight those facts as selling points. Easy access to the places they want to go is one way to attract winter buyers.
The next paragraphs apply to homes anywhere in the country:
Don't neglect curb appeal
While a blanket of snow can cover a host of landscaping issues, make sure your home looks well cared for when buyers pull up to the curb. Make sure walks are clean, gutters are clear and the exterior is well lighted. Remove any debris or piles of leaves. You want your home to look well kept no matter the season.
Add festive décor, such as a wreath on the door or greenery on your mantel, but don't go overboard. To appeal to the widest possible audience, your decorations should be less personal and neutral.
When house hunters visit your home in inclement weather, make sure to have a welcoming atmosphere in your house. Leave warm beverages or homemade cookies for them. Light fireplaces and candles. Make sure your home is warm, light and bright.
Price your home right
While this is true at any time of the year, make sure your price reflects both the value of your home and the winter market expectations. People that need to buy and move during the winter months often have specific budget constraints. Otherwise, they might choose to wait for a more convenience time of year. Consider offering incentives or concessions for home improvements, closing costs, new appliances or other items to sweeten the deal for potential buyers.
Use a professional
During the winter months, selling on your own may not be the best strategy. (Actually, selling on your own is never a good strategy! But that's a whole other article!) Professional real estate agents have access to several advertising channels. They more likely know how to highlight your home's best selling points. Most of all, they have access to buyers such as those moving to your area for a new job, or investors looking to make a purchase before the end of the year. Knowing how to target the right buyer or investor is one of the many advantages a professional can bring to a home sale.
Compliments of Sue Carr
;){kind=link}