Navigating the Winter Selling Months
Selling during the winter months presents challenges unique to this particular time of the year. The busyness of holiday decorating and shopping for gifts, mixed with the duty of entertaining family and friends with various gatherings, parties, and dinners can push listing a home to the bottom of your seller's priority list.
Here’s how you can help sellers stay focused and present their home in the best way possible.
Encourage Conservative Decorating
Sellers should consider being a little more conservative in how much they decorate if they list during the holidays. Some seasonal decorations are welcome, but too much can hide the features of the home they want to show off. Help your seller find the perfect balance between the Grinch and Clark Griswold.Manage Winter Debris
Clearing dead leaves, snow, or ice from patios and decks will be necessary for buyers to see the potential in your listing's outdoor spaces. Since most of the trees, shrubs, and gardens will be lifeless during winter months, buyers will need to use their imagination when picturing what outdoor entertaining could look like in the home. Help them out by making sure they have a blank canvas to work with, clear of clutter and debris.Stage Outdoors for Warmer Weather
If your seller isn't experiencing a harsh winter plagued with snow and ice, have them continue to stage their patio furniture for warmer weather. Consider advising sellers to leave out furniture cushions or even the grill to help buyers imagine what could be done with the space during spring and summer months.Include Extra Listing Photos
While foot traffic may be slower for showings during winter, many buyers turn to the internet to explore homes they are interested in via virtual tours. Show photos of the home in its winter state, but also try to include some photos of the home during spring or summer when things are in full bloom.- Price the Home Well
While there may be less competition on the market, be strategic with the selling price. Buyers might be more motivated if they are looking in the middle of the holiday season compared to other times throughout the year, but it's up to you to perform your due diligence and properly help your seller navigate market trends. Head to REINMLS.com to access products like Domus Analytics and Realist Tax that can help you track trends and create CMAs.
Winter may require you to assess and adjust your listing strategy for you to successfully aid your seller. Use REINMLS.com to continue to educate yourself on how to leverage the tools offered to you as a member to effectively serve your clients.