Traditionally, winter isn’t considered the best time to list your home because fewer homebuyers are usually looking. But according to Hilltop market trends, this can also mean there is less competition and more opportunity to make your home shine. In addition, buyers tend to have more urgency to buy in the winter, so homes are often sold more quickly. In fact, a study by Redfin found that the average seller was more likely to get above asking price during the winter months.

Plus, Denver’s generally mild winters mean there are plenty of pleasant house-hunting days all winter long.

If you’re listing your home in the winter, here are some tips to make sure potential buyers have an enjoyable experience looking at your home.

Tip #1: Keep It Light and Bright

Open all blinds and curtain to let in as much natural light as possible. Turn on lights throughout the house, including in the closet. If you have rooms that are particularly dark, tuck away spotlights behind furniture to brighten things up.

Tip #2: Make It Toasty Warm

This isn’t the time to be frugal with the heating bill. It’s not a bad idea to bump up the thermostat so it’s a degree or two above the usuall. Not only will this make it comfortable for buyers, but it will prevent a noisy furnace from kicking on while buyers are there.

And if it’s a particularly cold day, a warm temperature inside might tempt buyers to linger just a bit longer.
If you have a fireplace, make a fire but don’t leave it unattended for too long. If you have a gas fireplace, turn it on.

Tips #3: Create a Cozy Ambience

Set the stage for comfort by tossing afghans or throws on the sofa. Fill vases with fresh flowers throughout the house. Set your dining room table with dinner for four. Add some spa touches to the master bath with items such as decorative soaps and lotions; hang plush bathrobes and towels.

Tip #4: Soothe With Some Quiet Music

Turn on some soft music, such as jazz, classical, or New Age. Don’t use a commercial radio station that has advertisement interruptions.

Tip #5: Go Easy on the Artificial Scents

If you have pets, it can be tempting to go overboard on scented air fresheners, but these scents can bother some people and others might be allergic. Instead, place a small bowl of vanilla in the oven and turn it on low; the aroma will be wonderful. If you are ambitious, you can make cookies ahead of time; just be sure to set some out for those who will be visiting so they won’t be disappointed!

Tip #6: Keep It Visually Pleasing

Make sure your home is spotlessly clean. Empty trash and recycling bins. Polish chrome and clean glass. If you have any undesirable views out any of your windows, partially close the blinds to make it less obvious. Display photographs of how your summer looks in the summertime. Pack away personal items to give potential buyers the opportunity to see themselves living in the home.

Tip #7: Clear a Path

If it does snow, make sure your walkway is shoveled so visitors can get into your home easily.

Talk to your local Hilltop real estate agent when you are ready to sell your home. Contact Elevation Realty today at 303-579-3566 to talk about when it will be the best time for you to list.