Selling a house in January can be tough – but there are things you can do to make your home shine, whatever the weather.
Traditionally, January is seen as a bad time to list your house on the market – the philosophy is that it’s cold so prospective buyers will hibernate and wait until spring to start their search.
According to experts, however, there are some simple tricks that will mean you don’t have a ‘For Sale’ sign shivering in your front garden through the winter months. Use colour – oranges, yellows and reds will create a cosy, inviting feel and warm-up prospective purchasers the minute they step through the door. If you can’t afford to redecorate, buy cushions and throws in hot hues – take advantage of the current trend for the Danish art of hygge, which when translated means ‘cosy’. Light the log fire and offer viewers a big mug of tea.
Remember the importance of a smart front door – it’s the happy face of a home and the first thing people see. Experts say that smart black or dark blue are the most enticing colours. Grey has been popular in 2016, but in winter a cheerful red or yellow can work wonders too. Give faded doors a lick of paint and make sure all the door furniture is gleaming. If you’re feeling really creative, hang some baskets or arrange a couple of plant pots around the door – cyclamen and heathers will welcome people into your home on even the greyest of January days.
Solving your home’s winter aches and pains is another necessity – leaking pipes will put off even the most open-minded of house buyers. Take a survey of your home, starting with the guttering and windows. Work from the outside in and repair any problems. Make sure your windows are sparkling and throw open the curtains and shutters. It is important to let in as much light as possible, even on the darkest of days.
Don’t forget the garden – people will want to imagine sitting out there in the summer with a refreshing drink in their hands. Clear autumn leaves, pull up any weeds and look at investing in some garden furniture to spruce the space up.
For more information about buying and selling property in winter, call Ramsdens Conveyancing team free on 0808 1685 643 or email getmoving@ramsdens.co.uk if you'd like advice on all aspects of the conveyancing process, whatever the weather.