Most Australians view spring and summer as the best time to sell a home. Popular belief is that buyers will be feeling energised, gardens will be in bloom and the sunny blue skies and warmer weather will make for a more appealing home and therefore an easier and quicker sale.
There is only one problem with this idyllic view – if everyone is thinking along these lines, there are going to be so many homes on the market that buyers will be spoiled for choice. The high levels of competition may make it tough to get your price. So many homes to view – some will fall off the buyer’s radar simply because there isn’t enough time to get around to all of the options. Don’t let your home be one of those that are missed or undervalued just because of the level of competition in the market.
If you are thinking of putting your home on the market – why not try for a winter sale? There will be far less competition from other sellers – and probably just as many buyers out there. Buyers are in the market to but because of their own reasons – not because of the season. If a buyer has sold their home and needs to buy a new home – why would they wait until spring to do so?
The Australian climate is moderate – you won’t have to deal with open houses during snowstorms or blizzards. Your garden may not look as pretty as it might in summer – but with a little attention it can still look appealing.
If you put your home on the market in autumn or winter, here are some things that you can do that will help to avoid some of the seasonal negatives:
• Add a few cosy touches to your décor – some textured cushions in warm colours like reds, oranges
• Make sure that any west facing windows let in as much of the winter light as possible – open the curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible
If the temperature outside is on the cooler side – make sure that your home feels warm and comfortable for viewings – light the fire, switch on the heat, turn on the lamps
• Talk to your agent about the best time of the day to show your home
So all in all, the advantages of putting your home on the market in the so-called “off” seasons, may very well outweigh the disadvantages, and with a little extra effort you could very well land up with a far better selling price in autumn/winter than in spring/summer.