There’s a chill in the air and the countdown to Christmas has begun. Is the festive season a bad time to put your property on the market? Sam Funnell from Fine & Country Rugby considers the pros of listing before the end of the year.
Winter thoughts are wrapped up with end-of-year celebrations, like Christmas presents awaiting a tree, and time is handed over to arranging festivities, but there are some advantages to consider if you are considering putting your property on the market this winter.
Traditionally, a number of families seek out warmth over the winter holidays, which can lead to fewer buyers on the hunt for properties, but a weaker pound may encourage people to have a traditional Christmas at home this year. Either way, there are positive aspects to selling over winter.
Historically, during the holidays, the number of houses on the market decreases, meaning your property gets a higher level of exposure. Competition between sellers is reduced, increasing competition among buyers, which can work to your advantage. Buyers looking for properties at this time of year tend to be serious about buying, and this can lead to a quick sale. Additionally, with fewer work commitments, property viewings can be easier to arrange, giving you the opportunity to show off the finer aspects of your home. Boxing Day is, in fact, one of the busiest days of the year for property searches, so it’s wise to make the most of this chance to have your home seen by thousands of eager property hunters online.
Festive cheer often leaves people in an upbeat frame of mind, and this can be an opportunity for viewings. Remember that how you present your property in the winter months is crucial for a sale. Contrasting your inviting property with the bleak outdoors using warm lighting effects and winter scents certainly adds appeal. Welcoming a prospective buyer into a cosy home, in from the cold outdoors, perhaps with a crackling fire in the grate and a hint of cinnamon in the air, can provide that all important positive first impression. Take this opportunity to use the season to stage your home – classy decorations and a warm atmosphere can highlight a homely, comfortable ambience. Too much tinsel and flashing fairy lights may deter, but a muted hint of seasonal cheer is a nice touch.
Come spring, there’ll be a glut of properties on the market competing for attention. Presenting your home as a winter wonderland may be an opportunity to move your sale forward, providing you and your buyer with an extra touch of Christmas cheer.
For advice on selling or buying property, please contact Fine & Country Rugby on 01788 820062 or visit www.fineandcountry.com