Since we have a record month for snow here in Fairfield county CT, I felt this would be an appropriate post.
It’s interesting how the weather has such an impact on our daily lives. For example, when we see a house covered in a dusting of snow, this can leave an impression on our overall thoughts of the property.
This applies all over the world too. Did you know that during the winter months, places in the UK like the Shetland Islands for example can get lots of snow?
Selling a house is no easy feat and so many different factors need to be taken into account. That’s why so many sites like Flying Homes in the UK try to make the process easier by offering to buy properties in just 7 days.
Nonetheless, after our last storm I was at a client’s house for a home staging consultation and made a few observations, which I thought are important to share with home sellers who live in a snowy area.
* Buyers should be directed through the front door, where they get the best first impression of the house (curb appeal as well as entering the house). Therefore, shuffle the snow in front of your house and the walk way to the front door. If you really want your house to stand out from the crowd, and have some money to spend on exterior remodeling, you might even want to invest in some Hardie siding.
* If the house is located closer to the street and the snow plow pushed the snow to the side of each side of the street, but there is then no longer enough space for any cars to park, make the extra effort to shuffle parking spots. Potential buyers will then be inclined to park in front of the house and take the front entrance.
* Make sure that the driveway is free of snow, so enough cars can park in your driveway. Once the snow is no longer fresh it gets much harder to remove the snow to accommodate traffic for your Open House visitors.
* If your driveway is to the side of the house ensure that there is a snow and ice free pathway from there to the front door. Don’t lead buyers through the garage and basement into the house just because it is easier. You will loose out on opportunities of a great first impression. Remember, first impressions are formed within the first 10 seconds.
* Have a door mat on either side of the front door – outside and inside – to get the snow off the visitors’ shoes.
* You may want to consider hiring professional window cleaners and be sure to clean off the snow from your deck and patio furniture, so buyers can see how large it is and in what condition it is.
Happy selling!
