Welcome to my new monthly commentary on real estate in our area. My name is Gillian Stockdale, and I am a real estate agent with Century 21 B.J. Roth Realty, Brokerage. I thought it might be useful to have a little background information about me; I was born and raised in Orillia, Oro-Medonte and Ramara and my family and I have lived in Severn since 2005. I have had the privilege of helping my clients buy and sell real estate for over 22 years. Hopefully you will enjoy what I have to say. I am looking forward to passing on my personal insights and knowledge about the real estate market to you.
One question I get asked often is, should we put our house on the market now or wait until the spring? My answer is that if you are serious about selling, get your home listed now. Here’s some of my reasons why:
1. Serious buyers are looking now. The potential buyers that come to see your home in the winter are looking for a reason and not just testing the market. Whether it’s for a new job, downsizing or they have outgrown their existing home, your chance of receiving serious offers could be much higher as traditionally there aren’t as many casual buyers looking.
2. There is less inventory during the colder months. Historically in the spring, more listings come on the market which creates more competition. With less homes on the market, your home will stand out to those looking and will hopefully bring you competitive offers.
3. Highlight your warm and cozy features. Buyers like to see themselves in a house that seems like a sanctuary from the cold. Get a fire going, have soft lighting and decorate with tasteful seasonal decor to help buyers envision themselves living there.
4. Energy efficient upgrades sell! And even more so in the winter. Updated features like newer windows, a newer heating source, and upgraded insulation all stand out and are appreciated more during the colder months to buyers.
Listing your home in the winter might seem unconventional, but it comes with distinct advantages. Motivated buyers, less competition, and the chance to showcase your home’s cozy charm can all play to your benefit. Don’t let the season hold you back.
Embrace the winter market and let your home stand out!
