An open house? In the winter?
They’re a lot more common than you might think. While the spring and fall are notorious seasons for home sales, winter still sees quite a bit of action. And if you’re thinking of selling your home during this time, hosting an open house is still a great way to show it off.
In this article, we’ll give you a few tips on how to make your winter open house a success.
- Keep It Warm
This one might seem obvious, but it’s important nonetheless. You want potential buyers to be comfortable when they come into your home, so make sure the temperature is set to a comfortable level. You might even want to consider lighting a fire in the fireplace, if you have one.
- Put Out a Welcome Mat
No matter what time of year it is, a welcome mat is always a nice touch. It shows that you’re hospitable and inviting, and it gives buyers a place to wipe their feet before coming inside. In the case of Ottawa winters, it’s also a good way to help prevent any unwanted snow or ice from being tracked into your home.
- Decorate for the Season
Winter is a great time to decorate your home with all the trappings of the season. Put up a Christmas tree, string some lights around the windows, and make your home feel cozy and inviting. It’s all about creating the right atmosphere and helping potential buyers visualize themselves living in the space.
- Serve Seasonal Treats
Buyers will appreciate some seasonal snacks and drinks, so be sure to have some on hand. Hot chocolate, coffee, and cookies are always popular, or you could get a little more creative with some festive holiday treats.
- Highlight Your Home’s Best Features
In the wintertime, there are certain features of your home that will be more appealing than others. If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s clean and in working order. If you have a beautiful view of the snow-covered landscape, make sure your guests can see it by removing any obstructions from the windows. And if you have a cozy reading nook or another special spot in your home, be sure to emphasize it for potential buyers.
- Make Sure Your House is Clean
While it may be too early to call it a spring cleaning, cleaning your home from top to bottom is always a good idea before an open house. You want buyers to be able to focus on the house itself, not on the clutter. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to give your home that extra sparkle.
- Work With a Good Realtor
Winter real estate markets are tougher to sell in than other seasons, so it’s important to work with a qualified and experienced realtor. They’ll be able to help you price your home correctly, stage it effectively, and market it to the right buyers.
Selling your home in the winter doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these tips, you can make sure your winter open house is a success.
Interested in selling your Ottawa home this winter? Get in touch with me today.