Selling a home during winter in Australia comes with a few challenges, but the right preparation and support can still deliver a successful outcome.
From choosing the optimal time of day for viewings to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere when buyers step through the door, there are several steps you can take to trigger a bidding war.
Winter home sale: timing is key
One of the first considerations when preparing your home for a winter sale is timing. With shorter daylight hours and cooler temperatures, it’s important to schedule viewings during the brightest and warmest part of the day and when you can maximise the natural light that hits your property
This typically means mid-morning or early afternoon but it will depend on the orientation of your home. Talk to your agent about how important natural light will be when it comes to the first impression of your home.
Make sure your home feels cosy
It’s hard to consider buying a house that feels draughty on a cold day. Once you have chosen the time for your viewing, make sure your heaters are switched on and any places where cold air can come in are sealed off.
Light the fireplace or have some candles (electric ones are best) in the bedrooms to create an inviting feel. Soft furnishings like cushions and throw rugs will make the place more appealing a people step in from the cold. Make sure the home doesn’t look dark by turning on the lights before you leave and adding lamps to dimly lit corners.
If your home really comes into its own in summer, you might want to talk to your agent about offering a preview to a smaller number of buyers in winter. This can give you some feedback as you prepare for a campaign later in the year, or you may find you are surprised with a genuine offer.
Add some greenery
A splash of colour will brighten your home’s appeal, especially if the trees on your street are bare because of the season.
There are plenty of plants that flower in winter so see what you can put in place to greet people in the front and back garden. Some examples to choose from are lavender, cyclamen, banksia, grevillea and camelia. If you have a unit, they can go in pots on the balcony.
Beat the competition
The real estate market in Australia tends to slow down during the winter months, with fewer homes for sale. However, this can work to your advantage as a seller. With less competition, your home is more likely to stand out to motivated buyers who may have missed out during the busy autumn selling season. This presents a unique opportunity to attract serious buyers who are eager to make a strong bid, potentially leading to a favourable outcome.
Enlist the help of a Professional
Sometimes ‘right now’ is your only option when it comes to a home sale. If you need to have your home sold before the end of winter, what’s most important is that you reach out to a professional for support. A strong marketing campaign and a strategic approach to your home opens can deliver the results you
are hoping for.
Need to sell your home this winter? Reach out at teresa@teresaberger.com.au.
