Winter is coming!
Tips to prepare your home
RE/MAX SA shares tips for winterising your home, safeguarding your property's investment value, and effectively staging it for potential buyers during the colder months.As winter approaches, where cold and wet conditions prevail, homeowners should take proactive steps to ensure their homes remain comfortable and maintain their value. Selling over these months also comes with its challenges, but being proactive can help minimise damage and ensure a speedy sale.
“Whether you are planning to sell over winter or not, taking steps to prepare your home for the winter season is a great way to safeguard the investment value of your home by preventing possible damages caused by the weather conditions,” says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern.
For starters, Goslett mentions that autumn leaves can clog gutters, leading to water overflow and potential damage. Before the heavy rains come, clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent water accumulation and protect your home's foundation and walls.
The summer heat can also cause materials to perish, allowing unwelcome drafts during the winter months. Goslett recommends checking all windows and doors for damage. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal gaps, enhancing energy efficiency and keeping your home warm.
If you have an indoor fireplace that hasn’t been used in a while, it is also a good idea to clean it and ensure the chimney is free from obstructions. This should prevent you from being smoked out of the room the first time you start a cosy indoor fire.
“Addressing issues like dampness, mould, and structural damage promptly can prevent depreciation and make your home more appealing to potential buyers when you do later decide to sell,” says Goslett.
Unique set of challenges
Selling a home in winter also presents unique challenges that homeowners ought to be prepared for. “Looking at our figures over the past five years, home sales do not slow down over the winter months. However, what does shift is buyer behaviour. Ensuring that your listing stands out online will help entice buyers to come view the home in person,” says Goslett.
In preparation for a winter sale, homeowners should take some time to prepare easy access to the property. Clear the pathways and cut back any plants that could blow over in the wind. To avoid a muddy entry, place stepping stones or add paving leading to the front door.
Staging can also make a significant difference, especially when selling during the colder months. If you don’t already have some winter décor items, do some shopping now so that you can warm up your space for winter. Incorporate plush throws, thicker rugs, and extra lamps to create a snug environment.
“By proactively preparing your home for winter, you not only ensure a comfortable living environment but also maintain and potentially enhance your property's market value. For those who are planning to sell over the colder months, I would recommend speaking to a local RE/MAX agent for some free advice on what improvements could be made before your listing hits the market. This can ensure that your property doesn’t lose its ‘new-to-market’ appeal, giving you a better chance to sell fast and at full value,” Goslett concludes.