Don’t let winter freeze out a sale
With no interest rate cut in sight, sellers must rely on making their homes appealing to potential buyers.
After another month without an interest rate cut, sellers must ensure their homes are as appealing as possible to attract willing buyers.
To make matters worse, Adrian Goslett, the regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, says winter can be a challenging season for selling homes, with shorter days and cold weather deterring buyers from viewing homes in person.
“To lure viewers out of their homes when it’s cold and rainy, buyers must ensure their online listing is really enticing by posting high-quality photos and mentioning all the extra features in the description. In this regard, it is crucial to work with a reputable real estate agent who can reach and attract buyers.”
To help make the home as cosy and inviting as possible, Goslett recommends staging it with some winter décor. For those without the budget for professional staging, RE/MAX of Southern Africa shares tips on decorating your space for winter.
• Winter necessities
Add a welcome mat for viewers to wipe their shoes on before entering your home. If space exists in the entryway, add a coat rack for buyers to hang dripping jackets. On rainy days, leave a towel at your front door so viewers can dry off before seeing the rest of your property.
• Fire and light
If your home has a fireplace, make it a focal point and ensure it is alight when buyers arrive. For those without a fireplace, heat your home with a gas or electric heater just before the buyers arrive. Open the curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible during the day. Add extra lighting in darker corners with floor or table lamps on dark and gloomy days. Scented candles can also add light and warmth to the space, creating a more inviting atmosphere for buyers.
• Layers of luxury
Winter calls for comfort, and nothing says cosy like plush textiles. Add throws, blankets, and cushions in warm, rich fabrics like wool, faux fur, and velvet. Layering these textiles on sofas, chairs, and beds creates an inviting and luxurious feel. Opt for warm colours like deep reds, burgundies, and earth tones to enhance the seasonal atmosphere.
• Regular cleaning
It can be tricky to keep the home clean during winter, with the wind blowing in leaves every time somebody opens the door and muddy footprints appearing whenever somebody arrives home. Ensure the house is as clean and dirt-free as possible before a potential buyer visits.
“Winter doesn’t have to be a hindrance when selling your home. By working with a reputable brand like RE/MAX to help you reach potential buyers and guide you towards creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes your property stand out, sellers should have no trouble attracting a buyer over this season,” he concludes.
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