Given the current situation where the real estate market is showing signs of depression, is it time to list your home for sale?
Despite the climate, the holiday season remains favorable for sales as property hunters are on vacation. Relieved of their busy schedules, they have free time to view the sought-after houses. That's why you need to prepare your home to accommodate them.
Contrary to popular belief, you could be missing out on opportunities if you delay selling your home until after the holidays. In fact, times of family reunion are conducive to discussions about future life projects, and it is not uncommon for these moments to lead to an impulsive property search. Smartphones and tablets are never far away and can be consulted in a break between two celebrations. So don't underestimate the impact of a well-placed real estate ad and the reach it can have during celebrations.
Here are some points that should catch your attention
1- Clear the parking lot
Easy access to the property is undoubtedly the first sign of attention you can show to visitors. Free up all parking spaces and ensure that customers and agents can move around easily. Make sure outdoor stairs are safe by spreading de-icing salt when necessary.
2- Entrance
The visitor's first contact with your home, the entrance. This all too often neglected space needs to be inviting and warm. The goal is to leave a positive first impression. A buyer makes a decision in the first 90 seconds of the visit. Make sure the closet has room for several visitors' winter coats and boots. For a few dollars you can get disposable shoe covers that visitors put on during their visit. This allows them to move freely and protects your floors.
3- Cleanliness, functionality
The general rule is that all rooms in the house are cleaned and tidy in order to keep the residents' footprints as small as possible. Pay particular attention to the kitchen and bathroom. They must be squeaky clean. Don't overlook any detail. Stainless steel appliances shine brilliantly. No cooking stains on the stove.
4- Create atmosphere
Usually these days the house is decorated for the holidays. GOOD! But don't add more by overloading the decorations, because not everyone likes Christmas flourishes. Instead, focus on creating atmospheres, a reading nook here, a table set for entertaining guests there, or even a playroom just waiting for the family, etc. If you have a gas fireplace, run it.
Isolate each area by changing the lighting. This allows visitors to project themselves into different rooms.
Subdued, gentle music creates a calm atmosphere.
5- Awaken all senses
Consider adding scented bouquets or scented sachets to perfume the atmosphere. The same applies here: Don't overdo it, as some people suffer from allergies.
Diploma
The holiday season is a great time to sell your home. However, you need to pay attention to a variety of details that make it stand out. Don't know where to start? A clue. Remember your first visit to your home: What did you particularly like? You have a source of inspiration here, something to start your approach with. Good luck!
Advice
- If you need help preparing your home, contact a home staging specialist.
- Suggest flexible viewing times to accommodate potential buyers who have busy schedules.
- If you plan to list your home for sale after the holiday season, use the holiday season to prepare and clean your home.