The forecast for the early part of the holiday season looks frosty as cold air and snow move throughout much of the country. Usually, this type of weather gives people more reasons to stay indoors and not venture outside for much, especially a major purchase such as a home.
But as we’ve been saying most of this year, 2020 has changed the rules.
While the winter months traditionally keep many potential homebuyers and sellers out of the market until temperatures warm and spring begins to bloom, the cooling temps haven’t affected homebuyers this year. Home sales have been especially high over the past few months, and a smaller inventory shows this trend isn’t looking to end any time 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 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, you still need to prepare 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 people’s wish lists:
Festive décor
During the festive holiday season, it’s important for potential buyers to imagine themselves enjoying this time of year in your home. It’s a good idea to decorate for the season when opening your doors for interested buyers, but don’t go over-the-top.
When hosting an open house, consider lighting the fireplace and festively decorating or hanging lights to showcase the season’s vibe. Also, ensure your home is kept at warm temperature so potential buyers are comfortable when they walk in from the cold.
Don’t invite Jack Frost
Along with 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 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.
Greater Chattanooga Realtors is The Voice of Real Estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,400 members, Greater Chattanooga Realtors is one of 300 local boards and associations of Realtors nationwide that comprise the National Association of Realtors. Greater Chattanooga Realtors services Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. For more information, visit www.gcar.net or call 423 698-8001.