SELLING IN WINTER IS SMARTER THANK YOU'D THINK - HERE'S WHY

If you’re sitting on the sidelines as a would-be seller but you’re not really sure how to play things in the current climate, there are some market dynamics regarding selling in winter that might surprise you.

If you ask people when they believe is the prime time to sell property, many would say spring or summer, however data from Swinburne University of Technology has revealed that this isn’t necessarily the case. Perhaps surprisingly, the research suggests that if you sell in Sydney or Melbourne in early winter you may get as much as 2.3% to 3.2% more for your home. If you’re selling a $1m property, this could mean as much as an additional $32,000.

With stock predicted to reach record lows this winter (they are currently the lowest they’ve been in two decades), there’s a really great opportunity to capitalise on the heightened competition you’ll enjoy from a strong pool of active buyers short on options, which is exactly what we’re experiencing in the Inner West.

Our agents have sold almost four times more prestige property in the $2.5m+ range than our nearest competitors in the last quarter of 2019*. Our leading market share in this sector has provided us with intimate market knowledge and stronger relationships with the best buyers in today’s market. It’s a unique position and as a result, our clients can expect to achieve a higher sale price in a shorter time with a lot less stress.

We’re well versed in selling successfully through all seasons and one of our great assets is the relationships we have with stylists, tradespeople and the like who really understand how to create the right mood and aesthetic to engage buyers.

Our listings have a consistent look and feel that makes them instantly recognisable and appealing.

There are some key things you can do to ensure your home’s looking its best for a winter listing and you’ll be surprised how quickly, easily and cost-effectively we can get it market ready. Contact us for a walk-through of your property and we’ll let you know what enhancements and what sort of financial investment we feel will be worth your while.

GIVE LIGHT & PEOPLE WILL FIND THEIR WAY

Nothing puts buyers off more than a dark home, so in the winter months it’s more important than ever to amp up the light factor to make your property feel welcoming and airy. Schedule open homes for the brightest time of day, pull back all curtains and blinds and make sure all windows are sparkling clean. Cut back light-blocking foliage and even consider adding skylights in really shadowy spaces if warranted.

THE BEST STYLE IN WINTER IS WARMTH

Cold homes are instantly off-putting so create a warm and cosy environment by turning on the heating or stoking up open fires well before your inspections. The ideal temperature over winter is around 19 degrees according to Coral Air. Depending on where you’re based in the Inner West, the temperatures might dip quite significantly in the winter months, but don’t let the chilly weather give prospective buyers cold feet. One effective way of fostering an inviting atmosphere is to create a sense of warmth in every room in your house.

There are many ways of achieving this. It could be as simple and easy as, draping a throw over an armchair, or laying down a warm rug to craft a snug winter look. Deep, warm colours are typically your best bet, but be sure that the tones tie into the overarching style of the rest of your home.

STYLE IS A WAY OF SAYING WHO YOU ARE WITHOUT HAVING TO SPEAK

Buying has a great deal to do with creating a mood and ambience that generates an emotional connection and styling your home is integral to this. We can help you create maximum impact in winter, offering up useful advice or engaging a professional stylist who intimately understands what buyers find appealing. From de-cluttering to rearranging rooms and adding new pieces and furnishings, we know what works for our buyers, choosing décor to complement the season.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS NEVER HAVE A SECOND CHANCE

Make sure your property’s façade does your home justice. Add a fresh coat of paint if necessary, fix broken tiles and repair tired fences. Sprucing up your garden is one of the most worthwhile exercises you can undertake to make that all-important excellent first impression. Winter gardens can require extra help so hire a professional for maximum impact.