Selling your home in the winter? In Ottawa?
No problem! With the right preparation, you can make your home look just as appealing in the coldest of seasons. Here are a few ideas to help spruce up curb appeal, leverage some seasonal coziness, and make your home stand out in an otherwise monochromatic snowy landscape, to help ensure you get that sale.
Get a Bird Feeder
While the winter is generally considered a time of hibernation, it isn’t completely free of active wildlife. Blue Jays, Finches, Black-capped chickadees, White-breasted nuthatches and Northern cardinals are all prevalent in the capital region this time of year. Consider installing a bird feeder to attract these lively and colourful creatures to your property – they’ll definitely enhance its appeal.
Clear the Snow
Although it’s likely you’ll need to do it to enter and exit your home regardless, clearing snow is a great way to improve the curbside aesthetic of your property. Not only should you clear the driveway and walkways, but consider clearing the snow from around trees and bushes. The increased visibility will help show off your home’s features while also keeping it safe for buyers when it comes time to tour.
Update Your Numbers
House numbers – as in the figures physically mounted on your home – are easy to forget about, but can make a huge difference when it comes to making good first impressions. Think about it – what’s the first thing you look for when visiting a house for the first time? The confirmation you’ve made it to the right address, of course! Make sure your house numbers are clear, legible, and in good condition to ensure buyers can quickly and easily locate them. If not, a new set is absolutely worth the investment.
Consider a Mailbox
While they may seem insignificant, mailboxes can be a very helpful touch when enhancing a home’s curb appeal. When buyers drive up to your property, the mailbox will be among the first things they notice. Go the extra mile and give it a coat of paint if needed to make sure it stands out from the rest. Or, consider installing a new mailbox – it’s an affordable way to add character and charm to any home, making it even more inviting.
Decorate
Selling during the holidays? Consider it an opportunity to make the most of your outdoor décor. Whether it’s lights, ornaments, walkway candy canes or wreaths, adding some extra flair to your home’s exterior can make it all the more welcoming to prospective buyers. Just make sure not to go too over-the-top – we want to keep it tasteful, not distract potential buyers! As well, consider adding some inclusive holiday elements for those who may not celebrate Christmas. You’d be surprised how far details like this can go.
Selling in the winter doesn’t mean your home has to go unnoticed. Snow is actually incredibly charming! By taking a few simple steps, and bringing out the best of what’s already on your property, you can make sure prospective buyers (and anyone else passing by) take notice and appreciate it in all its wintery glory.
Interested in selling your home this winter? Contact me to learn more.