The forecast for the early part of the holiday season looks sparse as cold air and snow move throughout much of the country. Usually this type of weather will give people more reasons to stay indoors and not venture outside for much, especially for a major purchase such as a home. But as we’ve been saying most of this year, 2020 has completely changed the rules.
While traditionally the cold winter months have more or less kept potential home buyers and sellers out of the market until the temperatures warm up and the Spring season begins to bloom, the cooling temps haven’t affected homebuyers. Home sales volume has been especially high over the past few months. And a smaller inventory shows that this trend doesn’t look to end anytime soon.
The inventory shortage can also be an advantage to selling a home during the colder months. My fellow Realtors have seen many motivated buyers often willing to pay a higher price, which often results in a multiple-offer situation. Selling your home during these colder months can pay off, but keep in mind, preparation is still needed for your home to stand out to potential buyers.
For these reasons, it’s still a great time to list your property if you’re looking to sell. Want to attract even more attention? Use these listing and staging tips to keep your property on the top of peoples list.
Festive Decor. With the festive, holiday season, it is important for potential buyers to imagine themselves enjoying this time of year in your home. It is a good idea to decorate for the season when opening your doors for interested buyers, but don’t go too over-the-top. When hosting an open house, consider lighting the fireplace, festively decorating or hanging lights to showcase the season’s vibe to which buyers can relate. Also, ensure your home is kept at warm temperature so potential buyers are comfortable when they walk inside from the cold.
Don’t invite Jack Frost. Alongside adding holiday decorations to the exterior of your home, make sure to shovel your driveway and sidewalks and clear ice or frozen leaves off any decks or patios. Potential buyers should be able to easily access your home without the danger of slipping. Also, remove any icicles or frozen items from your roof, so that your home looks clean and ensure your “for sale” sign is easily visible in your front yard.
Be sure to work with a Realtor, a member of the National Association of Realtors®, who can share more tips for listing your home this holiday season. That’s Who We R®.