When’s the best time to sell your property? Most would say spring or summer, but data from Swinburne University of Technology has revealed that answer isn’t necessarily correct. In fact, the research suggests that if you sell your home in Sydney or Melbourne in early winter you may get as much as 2.3 to 3.2 per cent more for it.
If you’re selling a $500,000 home, that could be as much as $16,000! Before you start jumping off the walls and calling real estate agents there’s a thing or two you must do to ensure your home’s looking its best. We’ve put together a handy list to get you started so that your home’s ready to go when winter rolls around.
Naturally the weather’s a little darker and colder in winter but that doesn’t mean your home should be. A well lit property will feel inviting and comfortable whereas a dark and shadowy home will quickly put buyers off.
To make sure that doesn’t happen, ensure all windows are clean, blinds are pulled back and that nothing is obstructing sunlight from streaming in.If necessary, trim overhanging trees and plants that are shading your windows and place extra lighting in rooms that lack natural light.
Not only should your home be brightly lit – it should also be cosy and warm. If it is, soon as buyers walk in the door they’ll feel more comfortable, and that’s exactly how you want them to feel when you’re trying to sell them your home!
The ideal temperature over winter is around 19 degrees, according to Coral Air, so set your heaters at that level a few hours before the open home.
As the weather gets colder and wetter your home will too. That means a costly heating bill, but more importantly it could cause visible mould – the sight of which could put up to half of would-be buyers off, according to a 2016 mozo survey.
Luckily, if you’ve got at least a few days until your open homes start, dampness is an easy fix. First inspect your home closely and clean all signs of mould with a fine tooth comb so there’s none visible when buyers come calling. Next run a dehumidifier in the centre of the home for a few days before inspections to make sure the air isn’t stuffy and humid on the big day.
If you’ve got more than a few days before the open home, it’s worth getting a tradesperson to inspect the home. If they find any evidence of damp they can apply the necessary sealants and replace fittings to ensure your home passes a building inspection.
When the rain starts coming down post-summer your home may take a battering, so it’s worth inspecting the exterior prior to selling. Inspect your roof for cracks, signs of rust or broken tiles by propping a ladder up and safely looking over the edge.
Next, look to the walls and windows of your home. Is there any visible mould, exterior cracks or broken window seals? Getting a tradesperson to fix anything you spot will ensure your property doesn’t put off any buyers.
A winter sale can be challenging, but if it’s the right time to sell you shouldn’t let a little cold weather stop you. With help from a real estate agent you trust and a well prepared property, your winter sale should be a success!
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