Winter can be a challenging time to sell your house, as buyers may be less motivated to go out and view properties in the cold and snow. However, you can still attract buyers and make a good impression by staging your house to highlight its best features and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Here are some winter home staging tips to help you sell your house fast.
1. Clear the snow and ice
The first thing buyers will see when they approach your house is the exterior, so make sure it looks well-maintained and safe. Clear the snow and ice from your driveway, walkway, steps, and porch, and apply salt or sand to prevent slipping. If you have a garage, make sure the door opens and closes smoothly and that there is enough space for parking. You can also add some curb appeal by placing some winter plants, such as evergreens, spruce, or winterberry, in planters or urns near the entrance.
2. Brighten up the interior
Winter days can be dark and gloomy, so you want to make your house as bright and cheerful as possible. Open the curtains and blinds to let in natural light, and turn on all the lights, including lamps, accent lights, and under-cabinet lights. You can also replace your light bulbs with brighter ones and add some extra lighting to the darker areas of the house2. If you have a fireplace, light it up to create a warm and cozy focal point. You can also add some pops of color with pillows, throws, rugs, or artwork to contrast the neutral tones of winter.
3. Declutter and organize
One of the most important steps in staging a house is to declutter and organize your belongings, as this will make your house look more spacious and tidy. Remove any unnecessary or personal items, such as family photos, knickknacks, magazines, or toys, and store them away in boxes or baskets. You can also donate, sell, or throw away anything you don’t need or use anymore. Make sure your closets, cabinets, and drawers are not overstuffed, as buyers will likely peek inside to check the storage space. You can use organizers, dividers, or bins to keep everything neat and orderly.
4. Make it comfortable and welcoming
You want buyers to feel at home when they enter your house, so make it comfortable and welcoming. Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature, preferably around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and avoid any unpleasant odors, such as smoke, pets, or cooking. You can also use candles, diffusers, or potpourri to create a pleasant scent, such as vanilla, cinnamon, or pine. Provide a welcome mat and a coat rack for buyers to wipe their shoes and hang their coats, and offer some refreshments, such as hot chocolate, coffee, or cookies. You can also play some soft music in the background to set the mood.
5. Showcase the outdoor space
Even though it’s winter, buyers will still want to see the potential of your outdoor space, such as your deck, patio, or backyard. You can showcase these areas by shoveling the snow, cleaning the furniture, and adding some winter accessories, such as a fire pit, a heater, or some blankets. You can also decorate your outdoor space with some festive lights, wreaths, or garlands, but don’t go overboard with the holiday theme. You want to appeal to a wide range of buyers, so keep it simple and elegant.
These are some of the winter home staging tips that can help you sell your house fast. By following these tips, you can make your house cozy and inviting, and impress buyers with its features and potential. Remember, winter can be a great time to sell your house, as there is less competition and more serious buyers. So don’t let the cold weather stop you from staging your house and getting the best offer possible.
For personalized guidance in the Canadian real estate landscape, connect with Bonnie and Daniel Wan at 905-883-8888. Their specialized expertise ensures that your real estate journey seamlessly integrates with your goals, amplifying your likelihood of success and optimizing the returns on your venture. With a commitment to personalized service, they navigate the complexities of the market, providing insights tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
-Bonnie Wan
References:
8 Ways to Stage Your Home in the Winter – U.S. News Real Estate
Staging a house – 15 home staging tips from real estate experts
15 Home-Staging Tips to Sell Your House Fast | HGTV