The Winter Housing Market

November 22, 2018 | Posted by The Rocca Sisters & Associates

When it’s chilly out, one would probably rather sit by the fire than go to open houses or have to leave your home for showings. One may even think the effort isn’t worth it because winter’s a bad time to buy & sell. There are pros and cons to house hunting and selling in any season. Here are some reasons that home buyers shouldn’t be quick to pause their searches and home sellers shouldn’t think it’s time to take a break when the snow starts to fall: Compared to the busier spring and summer seasons, there are positives for both buyers and sellers to entertain the winter months. For home buyers, you will face less competition shopping with buyers that are serious and not just window shopping. This will make for a less competitive and serious climate to buying a home. Home buyers should also consider that rates will likely rise again sometime in the next six months, and keep this in mind when they are mapping out their timeline. For sellers, the winter months are about quality, not quantity. It’s a great time to sell, as the buyers that are out are serious, and you will experience less upheaval of your home with showings, but the quality and serious buyers that would be Christmas shopping if they weren’t seriously considering buying your home. There is also less inventory, as only serious sellers will embark on the winter market, therefore less inventory will make for a less competitive environment for you to showcase your home in. With looming rate increases, buyers are out right now so stay the course! No season is the exact perfect time to find a home or sell a home. There may be more homes on the market during spring and summer, but buyers & sellers face extra competition.

Why not try our some of our quick proven steps to help you get your home “buyer-ready” this winter:

Curb Appeal – The exterior beauty of your home shouldn’t fade with the onset of the cooler weather. Curb appeal is always a crucial aspect of attracting buyers, even during the winter. Keep trees and shrubs neatly trimmed and remove all leaves and debris. Always keep your driveway and walkways cleared of snow and ice.

Staging During the Holidays – Properly staging your home is proven to make a dramatic difference in both sale price and the number of days a home is on the market. While the instinct is often to declutter both the interior and exterior of your home, when it comes to the holidays do not be shy about lights, decorations or Christmas trees. These add a sense of warmth and a homey feeling that will help potential buyers envision their future holidays in their new home! With less sunlight during the winter, it’s important to replace dated light fixtures and to add as much ambient lighting as possible.

Each of our listings receives free home staging by a professional stager whether it’s spring, summer, winter or fall. We are designated Accredited Staging Professionals and the trademarked owners of the powerful STAGED & SOLD brand. We will ensure your home is staged properly to showcase the best it has to offer a potential buyer. For more tips or to schedule a free, no obligation home evaluation please contact us at 905-335-4102 or email us at info@roccasisters.ca. Our personal approach and proven results will surpass your expectations!