16^th December 2019

The days may be short and the weather bleak, but winter can be a profitable time to sell your home. Fewer houses on the market this time of year means less competition, and there are a number of things you can do to make your home even more attractive to prospective buyers.

Here are our five top tips for selling your property over the winter months.

Keep the garden tidy

 House hunters won’t be expecting to see an explosion of colourful blooms, but a neat and tidy garden makes a brilliant impression. At this time of year fallen leaves can be an eyesore and a nuisance — make sure they’re cleared away. And take the opportunity to cut back any overgrown shrubs and bushes.

Let there be light

Don’t let winter darkness dampen your chances of selling. Make sure you use lamps to give your house a homely glow. If your house viewings are booked after sunset (any time from 4pm) and you’re not around, then invest in some timers to have your lamps turn on automatically. Viewers can then enter a well-lit home which makes such a difference during these dark days.

Keep decoration simple

You may be a big fan of your giant inflatable snowman, but think about whether your decorations add or detract from your home’s appeal. It’s wise to keep seasonal decor minimal and simple. Make sure trees, garlands and decorations aren’t blocking storage, doorways, stairs or handrails.

First impressions count

Your entrance hallway is the first thing prospective buyers will see, so make the most of the opportunity. Clear away muddy shoes and winter coats, and make sure the space is warm, tidy and inviting.

Clear out the gutters

Eagle-eyed house hunters will check everything. Now the leaves have fallen, it’s an ideal time to clear out your gutters to avoid any problems for you (or your prospective buyer) further down the line.

Looking to sell your home this winter? At Matthews of Chester we have 30 years’ experience helping locals sell their homes. Call our friendly team for a free and accurate home valuation.