Sunday the 22nd December is the Winter Solstice which marks the final season of the year – Winter. It’s a difficult time to presenting your home for sale as everywhere seems a bit dark and dreary. Don’t neglect your outside space. Gardens can look untidy so cut back the straggly foliage and add some interest and colour with pots and planters.
In a previous blog I advised on presenting your home when selling at Christmas but in this blog I will offer tips on how to present your home during the Winter period generally. If your home has been on the market for a while then you should update the presentation to reflect the current season – photos that show your property at a different time of year are a dead giveaway, refresh and get your agent to take new photos.
Light
The winter Solstice marks the shortest day of the year, which means that at this time of year viewings will often take place on days when the light is poor or in the dark. Having a home that is well lit and welcoming is crucial. Start with outside lights, check that they work and have them switched on if possible. Not only does this help viewers find your house and navigate the driveway safely but it means that their first impression of the property will be welcoming and positive. Switch on interior lights, I prefer to use secondary lighting such as table lamps and wall lamps which create a softer feel. Dimmer switches mean that you can adjust the level of light.
Comfort
During the Winter it can be cold and wet so make sure the heating is on for viewings. If your property is cold then viewers won’t want to linger and will have a quick look round before leaving. Bear in mind that buyers make a decision very quickly so if they have whizzed round then they may not have given you home proper consideration. Your home will also feel uninviting. It also demonstrates that the heating is working. At the other end of the scale you don’t want buyers to feel they are in a sauna. In most cases your viewers will be wearing outdoor clothing so if the heating is set too high they will again feel uncomfortable. A log burner makes a lovely focal point if you have one.
Ambience
This is a time of year when you really want to create a warm and cosy atmosphere so that buyers can picture themselves curled up with a book and a glass of wine or mug of tea or in front of the television. To do this use texture and colour. You want have woolen throws with cushions in velvet or cable knit. Jewel colours are a good way to add a pop of interest and warmth. You could leave tea and coffee making facilities in the kitchen.
To summarise, switch on the lights, turn on the heating and create a cosy atmosphere. Stumped that your property hasn’t sold? Give me a call on 07745 876182 or e mail me at judith@homestyle4u.com. I cover the Wirral, Cheshire and the North West. Let me get you moved in 2020!