While it’s true that some potential buyers may be busy with Christmas festivities over December and early January, you will be pleased to know that others might be actively looking to make a purchase before the start of the new year.
Team this with the fact that fewer properties might be coming on the market at this time and you might soon begin to realise that selling your house over the Christmas period might not be such a bad idea after all!
If selling your home is a top priority for you right now, then here are some top tips to get you through the Christmas season:
Price your home competitively
Pricing your home competitively is crucial at any time, but it could be especially important at Christmas if people are looking to move quickly. Research the local market and other properties nearby and set a price that reflects the real value of your property. A well-priced home is more likely to attract serious buyers at this time of year.
Capture your home in the best light
With the potential for dark, gloomy weather, high-quality photos are even more critical at this time. Try to capture your home in the best possible light by choosing a bright winter’s morning with as much natural light flowing in as possible. Your images are the first point of contact your buyer will have with your home, so don’t settle for anything but the best.
Embrace the Christmas cosy season
Decorating your home with tasteful, seasonal decor might just give off that cosy vibe your prospective buyers are looking for. Consider subtle, stylish and neutral decorations that enhance the comfort factor and welcoming feel without overwhelming potential buyers. Twinkling fairy lights, wooden features, comfy rugs, warm blankets and winter fragrances in a home can create an emotional connection with the festive season and make it more memorable to buyers.
You might also want to showcase any winter-specific features your home may have. If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s in good working order and consider lighting it during viewings for that added snug-factor. Additionally, emphasise the insulation and energy efficiency of your home to appeal to buyers concerned about winter energy bills.
Be realistic and plan accordingly
We’ve already established that the Christmas season can be pretty hectic for many people, and so you might expect the home-buying process may take longer. Be flexible with your timeline, and communicate clearly with potential buyers about your availability during this period. The last thing you want is to offer viewings and then cancel them because you have festive plans that you forgot about!
Also be aware of other potential delays in the sales process due to holiday-related factors, such as banks and solicitors closing too. Work closely with your estate agent and other involved parties to ensure you have a clear timeline over the festive period and into the New Year.
Keep your home well-maintained for winter
Curb appeal definitely makes a huge difference when it comes to attracting buyers and even more so during the winter months. Try your best to keep the exterior of your home well-maintained, clean and tidy. Clear your pathways regularly of leaves, snow or winter debris, and keep the garden under control with cut grass, tidy borders and regularly weeding.
Adding some seasonal touches like a wreath on the front door and fairy lights on any outdoor trees will also set a positive first impression when buyers come to view.
Offer incentives
If you are really looking for a speedy sale over December, then you might want to consider offering incentives to motivate buyers to act quickly. This could include covering solicitors costs, offering to leave white goods or selected furniture items or even offering a discount if the transaction is completed before the end of the year. You never know – a few small things could help to cross the sale over the line.
Take the stress out of selling altogether
Want to take the stress out of selling your home altogether? Take advantage of our Part Exchange Plus Scheme where Peter Ward Homes agrees to buy your present home so that you can move into your new Peter Ward home! We may be able to accept your old home at 100% of its market value, and if we sell your existing property for more than our agreed offer, then we will refund you the difference!
Take a look at all our Peter Ward Home help to buy incentives here.