If you’re looking to sell your property early in the new year before the market starts to gain momentum this Spring, now is the time to act – but quickly.
Now we’re moving into Winter, the market slows down substantially, and properties prove more difficult to sell. Instead of organising viewings and visiting estate agents, we’re shopping for presents, turkeys, and replacement Christmas trees which promise to shed fewer needles.
But, getting your house on the market may not be a bad idea. Data from Rightmove shows that property related searches increase 231% between Christmas Day and 2nd January! Putting your property on the market in December will mean, according to the law of averages, that by mid to late January you may have found the right buyer and clinched a good deal. In addition, this comes with all the benefits of avoiding that Spring rush in March, April and May – when property seekers awaken from their slumber and the cycle begins again.
Here follow some tips for helping your house move quickly over the slower Winter months using simple but effective improvements.
Good looks count
It may seem like a cliché, but first impressions really do count. Your property will look a lot more appealing in the cold November drizzle if the garden or front entrance is trim and well-kept: Any fencing should be repaired and the window-frames or doors do not need painting.
Even just sweeping the wet leaves away from the path ensures a more welcoming environment and an old trick in the Winter period is to not make your property look too dark. Use lights, lamps, candles and mirrors to brighten the property both internally and externally, adding that little touch that other properties won’t offer.
Simple things like this that cost nothing to prepare, could end up adding thousands to the value of your house.
Make repair
Also, make sure that there are no immediate repairs to be done on the property, as this will deter potential buyers if there’s work to do straight after they move in, especially throughout the Winter.
Price Point
Finally, think hard about the price. Pricing your home too high will lead to not getting any viewings, but by pricing it too low, you’ll undersell the property and lose money on what your house is worth.
A good idea is to do a quick online valuation with Stirling Ackroyd to see what your house is worth, and we’ll even let you know what prices other houses in your area are getting at sale.
By acting fast, choosing your timing wisely, preparing your property well, and being savvy with the price – as well as the support Stirling Ackroyd can provide – you could see your property sold before January is out. The Winter months can be slow, but with our help, you don’t have to stop!
Book a valuation today and start getting seen.
