Around this time last year, Bluegrass citizens were experiencing sub-zero temperatures, blistering winds, ice, and nearly a foot of snow in some places.  This week just looks to be pathetic, soggy, and brrrrrrr…..

Realtor.com & The Boston Globe have curated a wonderful list of ideas to help keep your properties active during the chilly months – so check ’em out!  Maybe a few of these are just what your listing needs!

TIPS TO SELLING IN WINTER

First Impressions are Very Important – especially during depressing gray winter months.  Don’t let your home blend into the dreary surroundings.  These are great tips for you and your seller to help maximize the property’s first impression.

❄ TIP 1: Rake up leaves and debris, keep walkways clear of ice and snow – safe and accessible homes are welcoming and leave great impressions.

❄ TIP 2: Have trees trimmed so that unexpected winds don’t knock down branches

❄ TIP 3:Keep the house cozy – entering a cold house could chill potential buyers’ enthusiasm – turn on the heat before showing a home.

❄ FIRES  We warn AGAINST lighting a fire in the fireplace.  Fires could be accidentally left unattended and be disastrous.  DO, however, emphasize the perks of a functional fireplace in your property.

❄ TIP 4:Keep holiday decorations on the conservative side – you want them to notice the house not the decoration.

❄ TIP 5:Have the windows cleaned of grime from the fall, clean windows make a home seem new and bright

❄ TIP 6:Let in lots of natural light and use warm interior light bulbs to reduce the overwhelming dreariness of winter. Use higher wattage bulbs and make sure fixtures are clean (get those dead bugs and cobwebs outta there!)

❄ TIP 7:Use the aromas of warm cookies or pumpkin pie to set the cozy warm atmosphere – even give some to your guests as they tour!  Connect their senses to the home, making it more memorable when they’re deciding later.

❄ TIP 8:Adding warm textures to a home can make it seem cozy rather than unkempt in the winter – like a nice afghan on the sofa or a large plush blanket folded at the foot of a bed.

❄ TIP 9:Emphasize the home’s winter conveniences – is it on a street that’s plowed fairly often?  Can you see to the street so kids can wait inside for a school bus?  Is the driveway flat and allows for traction?  These are little things that a potential buyer may not think of – but could greatly influence their opinion of a home.

❄ TIP 10:Be a bit meticulous – ask guests/potential buyers to remove their shoes or place covers on so that they do not track salt, snow, dirt from outside into the home.  This can be seen as courteous and reflect well on the state of the house.