Common Home Selling Mistakes in the Winter

Each season brings with it unique conditions and concerns for homeowners. As such, it isn’t surprising that sellers and realtors will also need to account for the changing seasons and how they can impact the buyer’s experience. In particular, failing to take the colder, snowier weather of winter into consideration could even cost you a sale.

Here are some important things to keep in mind if you’re selling a home during the winter months.

Clean Up All the Snow

Although you can’t exactly make the snow vanish, it’s important to take the cleanup process seriously. You’ll want to clear away any snow to the best of your ability, including any snow that has piled up at the home’s entrance as well as the entrance to the garage. That way, you and any potential buyers will be able to enter the house from either of these entrances. If prospective home buyers are unable to safely and comfortably navigate the property due to snow, they won’t leave with a positive impression and you may even face legal liabilities.

Use Up-to-Date Photographs—Buyers Can Tell

During the winter, it’s more obvious than ever when you’re using older images to market the home. Of course, it can be tempting to use photos from the warmer months of the year. Often, these pictures seem to look more appealing than those taken in the gloomier, snowy winter months.

However, if the photo shows a blooming garden and bright-green grass, it’s going to be clear to interested buyers that you’re using an out-of-date image. It’s entirely possible that buyers will see this as a red flag and wonder why you aren’t using a recent image of the house. Some may even assume that something is wrong with the home in its current state. Stick to recent photos, even during the winter.

Be Accommodating to Buyers

If you’re trying to sell a property during the winter—especially during the holiday season—you’ll need to be flexible. Even if you’re feeling inconvenienced, try not to turn down a prospective buyer’s request to view the home. Denying the buyer could cause you to quickly lose a sale, possibly to a more accommodating seller. Although the winter months can be hectic, try to prioritize your showings whenever possible.

Want to know more about selling your home during the winter? Get in touch with us today.