Many buyers think that spring is the best time to sell – it is after all when your property really shines all its best features! Curb appeal definitely comes into play here, but I actually love listing properties in the winter. There’s less competition on the market and if you’re hunting for an acreage it’s best to see it ‘at its worst’ to identify where water pools etc. That being said, curb appeal still matters in a big way and you can do some really special things in the winter to give your home a tidy, welcoming first impression.
Clear snow and ice from walkways and driveways
The first thing you should do when the snow starts falling is clear your walkways and driveways. You want potential purchasers to access the home without difficulty and to be able to see that winter-weather still means the home is very liveable and safe.
Add Greenery
A planter pot with evergreen branches and some berries can go a long way in transforming an entrance. A festive wreath or a door-framing garland also look fabulous in the winter.
Tidy Gardens
Make sure hedges are trimmed and in good shape, and that all brown and dead greenery is removed. Adding some fresh mulch can make treed areas or to-be-filled-in gardens look clean and happy.
Spruce up your mailbox
A mailbox is often overlooked, but it is integral to your home’s curb appeal. It is often the first thing visitors see when they approach your home, and it sets the tone for the home’s personality. If your mailbox looks a bit boring or dated, consider giving it a makeover this winter. A fresh coat of paint can give your mailbox a new lease on life. Choose a bold, wintery colour like barn red or forest green
Add outdoor lighting
Outdoor lighting is a great way to add visual appeal and functionality to your home’s exterior during the winter. Here are some ideas for adding outdoor lighting to boost your home’s winter curb appeal:
- String lights: You can hang them on your front porch, along the roofline, or in trees or bushes.
- Lanterns: You can place lanterns on your front porch, along walkways, or in other strategic locations to provide both light and visual interest.
- Solar-powered lights: You can place solar-powered lights along walkways, in flower beds, or in other areas where you want to add light.
- Accent lighting: You can use spotlights or floodlights to create a dramatic effect.
- Path lighting: You can use low-voltage or solar-powered path lights along walkways, driveway edges, or other outdoor paths to provide both light and a sense of direction.
Maintaining your home’s curb appeal during the winter is vital for both aesthetic and practical reasons. Always try to imagine seeing your home for the first time and put yourself in the shoes of a potential buyer.
Thinking of buying or selling real estate in the Fraser Valley? Let’s talk!