How to make your Winter listing shine 

While the colder months may seem less ideal for real estate transactions, with the right approach you can turn Winter into a selling advantage. 

By highlighting your property's cosy features and making the most of the season's unique charm, you can create a welcoming atmosphere that captivates potential buyers.

We spoke to REIWA sales agents who offered their top tips for putting your home on the market during Winter.

Address maintenance issues

Ensure all maintenance issues, such as leaks in the alfresco area or gutters are addressed - you don't want minor floods or constant drips during a home open. A well-maintained home, even in the Winter months, can give buyers confidence in the property's condition.

Create a warm and welcoming atmosphere

Highlight features including fireplaces, underfloor heating, reverse-cycle air conditioning and heated towel rails that make the home feel more welcoming. A blazing fireplace will make your photos shine and your home opens more inviting.

Emphasising energy-efficient features such as double-glazed windows, insulated walls, and energy-efficient appliances can showcase areas that buyers may not notice initially, and which can reduce heating costs.

Showcase theatre rooms, reading nooks, and other indoor areas where buyers can relax and be entertained. If you have a bath, present the bathroom as a place to unwind in warmth and comfort.

For the viewing, ensure the home is comfortably heated. A consistently warm interior can make a significant difference in how potential buyers perceive the property.

Open all curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. Clean windows to ensure they are streak-free and allow maximum light penetration.

Use additional lamps and lighting fixtures to brighten up darker areas. Consider using warm-toned bulbs to create a cosy atmosphere.

Make the most of outdoor spaces

Although alfresco areas are more popular in warmer months, you can still showcase them in Winter. Use café blinds and heaters to make these spaces appealing as year-round entertaining areas.

Highlight covered outdoor spaces as great places for children to play when it’s raining. Spas, saunas, heated pools and outdoor heaters are also excellent features to promote during colder months.

Enhance your garden’s appeal

Winter gardens might not be as lush, but you can still make them look good. Consider having your photos taken just after the rain, when lightly dampened plants can glisten and enhance your property listing (but make sure the driveway and other hard surfaces are dry).

Prepare for inclement weather

Be ready for bad weather during home opens. Provide a place near the front door for umbrellas and ensure mats are available for people to wipe their feet.