We know what you are thinking after reading the title of this blog, who would sell their house during the holidays season? Everyone knows that November-January are the worst months to put your house on the market. But selling real estate in East Central Indiana during the winter months may come with some advantages. Buyers looking during the winter are not usually perusing the availability of homes. They are actively trying to find a house to buy, making them more serious than some buyers during the spring and fall. The housing market is much less flooded with inventory during the winter, which means less marketing and more views of your home with less effort. For more tips check out this HGTV article!
While we would always suggest that you place your house on the market at the most advantageous time, sometimes you don’t have time to wait. That is why we are bringing your tips for selling real estate in East Central Indiana during the holidays!
Keep the Decorating to a Minimum
We know that it will be tempting to decorate your home for the holidays. We would caution you not to overdo the decorating. Holiday decorating is something personal and unique to each family, which is why only adding touches of holiday decorating will allow buyers to envision your home becoming their home. Not only that, but large decorations can easily make a space seem cluttered and busy. We would also suggest that you decorate with winter or fall-themed décor that can be kept throughout the holidays.
Price to Sell
Because the winter is the optimal time to be selling your home, it is essential to price your house to sell. If you are looking for top dollar for your home, you may need to wait until spring. For a seller who is determined to put their house on the market, pricing to sell will make a difference in the sale of your house. Instead of making small price changes as the months go on, put the house on the market for a price that will motivate buyers.
Look for Motivated Buyers
Buyers who are looking for a home during the winter usually have an excellent reason. Work with your agent to find buyers motivated by deadlines such as families relocating, students, or investors. These external motivators will encourage them to follow through on their purchase, especially if your house is priced the sell.
Focus on Your Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is so important when you are selling your home during the winter. If you are taking images of your home during the cold months, it is hard to make your home seem welcoming. The leafless trees and brown grass can make your pictures seem much dimmer. That is why well-placed decorations and an emphasis on your curb appeal. Also, make sure that your driveway, walkways and porches are clear of any snow or ice.
Make Your Open House Warm and Cozy
Focus on the warmth and coziness of your home. Give the visitors in your home the chance to get out of the cold by cranking up the heat and lighting a few candles. It also wouldn’t hurt to play some soothing music and offer hot chocolate and holiday treats. With the help of your agent, make your home feel like a potential buyer’s dream home. If your agent hasn’t suggested a winter open house bring up these ideas to them!
Take Great Photos
It is always essential that you have professional, well-done photos taken of your home. But we cannot stress enough how important it is during the winter. Like the curb appeal section without green grass and leaves on the trees, your pictures can come off dull and unappealing. Having a professional photographer who takes great pictures of houses during the winter will be the best way to market your home.
Get More Information
We hope that these tips help you if you plan to sell your house during the winter. While this is not the optimal time to sell, you would be surprised how a good strategy.
If you are interested in purchasing real estate in East Central Indiana, learn more about American Heritage Realty. We have been in operation since 1977, and we have the expertise and technology to help you buy a home or sell a home. Get to know us!