Winter Wonderhome

Nick Churton of our London Mayfair Office looks at how to get the very best from your property sale during the winter months.

Spring is generally recognised as the best time to sell houses. But not everyone can wait until then. Our lives are not regulated by the seasons as nature itself is. It’s more complicated than that. So now the nights have drawn in here are some thoughts about selling in the coming winter season which will help you get the best results.

With gardens in hibernation and many people having to view houses and flats after dark it takes a little bit more imagination to make your property stand out from others.

First, you want potential buyers turning up in a good mood - not fed up, frustrated and late. Have you ever tried to find house numbers in the dark? It’s not easy, so make sure your number stands out and can be seen easily from a moving vehicle. It is also a very good idea to have a For Sale board outside as this will make your property much easier to find.

Once inside, the lighting and warmth are very important. Rooms should look and feel cosy and welcoming. So use subdued lights, and if you have an open fire then do light it. It will help to give the feeling of hearth and home.

Of course there are some points that apply to selling property in any season, things like making the interior look as uncluttered and spacious as possible. Also, making the price look more like a Christmas present for the buyer than the seller is the very best way to get a quick sale. We know the market is improving. But buyers are not silly – nor are bank or building society valuers - and a widespread urge to buy at any price seems a very long way off.

No property looks quite as good as when the sun is shining and the garden is burgeoning with lush green springtide growth. But with a little thought and some careful preparation your property can become a winter wonderhome to attract buyers.

Please contact either Andrew Richardson, Jeremy Richardson or Richard Killoughery on 020 8643 7777 to get moving or email us at sales@christiesworld.com.

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