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3 Easy Ways for Buyers & Sellers to Navigate a Winter Market

Writer's picture: Homeworks Property LabHomeworks Property Lab

We’ve mentioned it before in a story about seasonal real estate trends, but the winter market is definitively “the quiet one.” This is true for many reasons, actually, not the least of which is the literal weather. People tend to get focused on the holidays and year-end or commitments, followed by a new year of obligations and goals that make them less likely to prioritize buying or selling a home…processes that are already rife with stress, uncertainty, and tight deadlines. Colder weather also makes moving a lot more difficult (adding unpleasantness to an already-unpleasant activity), and fewer homes are listed, which means lower inventory overall. On top of all that, we’re working with limited daylight hours and harsh conditions, so the appeal of house hunting can tend to get a little lost.


That all said, however, trying to find or sell your home in the dead of winter does have its advantages. Less competition, since fewer buyers are active, can lead to better deals, for example. And sellers can take advantage of the aforementioned lower inventory for said buyers, which means their house may just stand out a touch more. 


Regardless of the temperature outside, people need to buy and sell homes at all times of year. Below are a few simple ways that both buyers and sellers can capitalize on the cold.


 

SELLERS


  • Maximize winter staging: Tis the season to be cozy. You may not be able to take advantage of green grass, flower pots, a pristine driveway, or changing leaves, but fresh snow comes with its own charm, and there’s plenty of winter potential inside. Create the kind of mood that makes your home look and feel warm and inviting. If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s on for showings or open houses. Light candles and utilize lamps and sconces to create a soft, ambient light, rather than relying on harsh overheads. Serve hot cider, fresh coffee, or warm cookies. See the cozy...be the cozy.


  • Embrace virtual tours: Given the cold and the snow and the darkness and the general lack of ambition to be outside, winter is a perfect time to take advantage of virtual tours and remote viewings. Many sellers don’t realize the power of a high-quality virtual tour—it can be a pretty great way to attract potential buyers as they scroll comfortably from their own couch, but it’s also an incredibly useful tool for potential buyers who may be out-of-town or those with crazy schedules who might otherwise have a hard time seeing the home in-person. Embrace technology, sell your home.


  • Emphasize Cold-Weather Features: For those lucky enough to have a working fireplace at home, now’s the time to capitalize and really show it off. Same goes for things like heated floors, double-pane windows, draft-proofing, energy efficient insulation, storm doors/windows, or a smart thermostat. These features will emphasize your home’s seasonal practicality and give you a leg up. Insulated garage? Say so. Heated driveway/sidewalk? Let them know. Hot tub or sauna? Well, now it’s selling itself.



BUYERS


  • Watch for Red Flags: Prospective buyers should pay close attention to those same winter-specific features mentioned above and keep an eye out for issues. Winter is good at revealing those problems that may not be obvious during spring, summer, or fall, like heating system performance, insulation, or window drafts. Pay extra attention to how well the home maintains warmth and if any areas feel cold or drafty. Check for water damage, leaks, clogged gutters, or issues caused by heavy snow accumulation, so you can address them before you make an offer.


  • Focus on Potential, Not Presentation: Winter conditions can obviously mask much of the usual curb appeal that a home may have. Trees are usually bare, and dead leaves and snow—especially after much of it has melted and things have become muddy—can tamp the excitement that comes with a good first impression. But try to look past the season’s impact and imagine how it might look during other times of the year, after spring has had its way and you’ve added your own touches. A few flower pots here, a garden gnome there…ah. Perfect.


  • Take Advantage of Lower Competition: Many buyers hold off on house hunting until the warmer months, which can be great for those who decide to keep at it. As a result, you might face fewer bidding wars or less sense of urgency from other buyers (which is quite nice when you’re already stressed or nervous). You may also find more negotiating leverage on price and terms this time of year. We suggest you be prepared in advance for potential quick decisions or a fast closing: even if competition is a bit lower, it could work to your advantage if appraisals or inspections are delayed for weather conditions.



Homeworks Property Lab, 66 Exchange Pl., SLC P: 801.810.8696


bright yellow and green victorian home in the snow

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