While winter may be known as a slower selling season, it’s also the time of year where buyers are highly motivated, and with proper planning you’ll be able to have great success selling your home in the wintertime. Putting your home on the market during winter months means shifting your focus from summer curb appeal and gardening, with its bright colours and patterns, to creating a warm, comfortable and inviting space. If you want to sell your home in winter, focus on bringing in that warm and welcoming feeling you get when walking in from the cold. It’s easy by putting these ideas into action!

Curb Appeal 
This isn’t to say that curb appeal isn’t important in the winter months. Curb appeal is still the buyer’s first impression when looking at your home. If you live in a place with high amounts of snowfall be sure to clear off your sidewalk and driveway to keep it safe for visitors and allow them to see your home clearly without distraction. Sweep away any fallen leaves or debris and keep outdoor furniture on your patio if the weather allows so they can get a better feel for your outdoor living space. 

Up the Cozy Factor 
Pay special attention to the temperature of your home come winter. Make sure your home feels comfortable and sufficiently heated during showings to up the cozy factor. Setting your thermostat between 20 and 21 degrees Celsius is ideal, and if you have a working fireplace, turning it on will create a nice ambiance and is a great selling feature. You can also lean in to the cozy, winter season in other ways such as offering warm, homemade muffins*, setting up a hot cocoa station* in the kitchen and putting out cozy throw blankets in seating areas. 

Keep It Light and Inviting 
With days being shorter and darker in the winter months, it’s important to keep your home well lit when having showings. Be sure to check all your lightbulbs and replace any that are burnt out. Adding some warm lighting will make your space very appealing. Don’t forget to check your exterior lights as well. Keeping your home lit inside and out allows potential buyers to see and fall in love with your home. 

Declutter 
Decluttering your space is one of the most important parts of getting your home ready to sell. Where do you start? The best place to start is with your personal items. De-personalizing your rooms by removing family photos, trophies, etc. will go a long way. It allows for people to envision their own belongings in your space, making it easier for them to imagine themselves living there. If your home appears more neutral, it will appeal to most buyers, and that’s the goal after all. 

Make Property Boundaries Clear
If snow is covering the ground while you’re showing your home, make sure to mark the four corners of your property with brightly-coloured flags tied to stakes. The lot lines won’t be as visible in the winter, so it’s important to clearly define your outdoor space. Potential buyers should be able to see exactly what they’re getting and will appreciate the added effort on your part. 

*If Covid restrictions allow for this