Top tips to make your home winter-ready for a successful sale
Following the festive period, many people turn their thoughts and attention to potential new year property aspirations. Traditionally, record numbers of people jump onto property-related websites after Christmas and into the New Year, so it’s a great time to consider marketing your home, knowing there are tens of thousands of extra people seriously considering a house move.
While winter can be a challenging season to showcase a property, it also offers an opportunity to highlight warmth, comfort, and energy efficiency, which are qualities increasingly valued by buyers.
Propertymark has outlined its recommendations to help sellers make the strongest impression during the frostier months.
1. Light up darker days
Shorter daylight hours mean homes can appear darker than usual.
- Maximise natural light by keeping curtains drawn back and windows clean.
- Add soft, warm lighting through lamps to create a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
- Replace dim bulbs, especially in hallways and living spaces, to avoid any gloomy first impression.
2. Keep it warm and comfortable
Viewing a cold home is one of the quickest ways to put off potential buyers.
- Set the heating to a comfortable level.
- Eliminate drafts around doors and windows to demonstrate energy efficiency.
- Add seasonal touches, such as throws and cushions, to make the home feel cosy and inviting.
3. Freshen up kerb appeal
Winter weather can make exteriors look tired, so kerb appeal matters more than ever.
- Clear pathways of leaves or moss and ensure outdoor lighting works.
- Keep the garden tidy, trimming overgrowth and removing dead plants.
- Power-wash driveways and front steps to brighten up first impressions.
4. Maintain a clean, clutter-free interior
Winter often brings boots, coats, and extra home clutter.
- Create a sense of space by storing away bulky winter wear.
- Keep surfaces clear and ensure all rooms look purposefully arranged.
- Add subtle seasonal décor but avoid anything too personal or overwhelming.
5. Highlight energy efficiency
Cost-of-living concerns make efficiency a top priority for many buyers.
- Display your EPC rating clearly and be prepared to highlight any upgrades.
- Consider small fixes, like LED bulbs, radiator reflectors, or freshly serviced boilers.
- Showcase any insulation work, such as draught proofing or upgraded windows.
6. Make repairs before the weather draws attention to them
Cold weather can emphasise problems like condensation, damp patches, or drafts.
- Address repairs such as cracked tiles, noisy radiators, or leaky gutters.
- Keep ventilation consistent, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Ensure all appliances are in working order, particularly heating and hot water systems.
Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, comments:
“Winter offers sellers a great chance to make their home stand out, but it requires a slightly different approach. Buyers will often judge a home more critically during the colder months, so warmth, brightness, and energy efficiency become even more important. Small, thoughtful changes can make a significant difference to both the speed of the sale and the final offer.
“Our member agents are well-versed in helping sellers maximise their home’s potential in any season, and winter is no exception.”
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