Selling Your Home in Winter

With colder temperatures and wet weather, you might think winter isn't the ideal time to put your house on the market. Seasonal sales data often supports this, as many people choose to wait until warmer months to list their homes. On average, 31,802 homes were up for sale across the country in June, July, and August between 2010 and 2023, with 8,885 new listings in that period—the lowest number for any season. Surprisingly, 67% of new winter listings converted to sales, the highest rate of any season.

Why Winter Might Be the Perfect Time to Sell
Winter can actually be a great time to sell your property, depending on how well it presents. Key factors include the condition of your lawns, sun exposure, and overall resilience to weather conditions. If your property looks appealing even in winter, there’s a strong case for listing during the off-season. Additionally, there’s less competition, as most people list their homes in the traditional selling seasons of summer and early autumn.

With fewer properties on the market in winter, buyers have less choice, potentially leading to quicker sales. It's important to remember that motivated buyers are always looking, regardless of the season. They don't stop their search just because it's cold; they stop because they haven't found the right property yet.

Types of Properties That Perform Well in Winter
Certain properties, like lock-up-and-leave style homes and apartments, tend to be more desirable in winter. The direction your property faces also plays a significant role—north-facing properties get good sun, while west or south-facing ones may not.

Street appeal is another crucial factor. Buyers are looking for properties that stand out when they drive up. The right first impression can make a big difference.

Key Focus Areas When Listing Your Home
Before listing your home, identify your target demographic. Is your property ideal for first-time buyers, investors, empty nesters, or families? Understanding your audience helps you prioritise improvements that will appeal to them.

Families might value fencing and security.
First-time buyers and investors often prioritise affordability, so simple updates like a fresh coat of paint can be effective.
Ensure all maintenance tasks are completed. Fix flickering lights, leaky taps, and other cosmetic issues to present your home in the best possible light. Decluttering is also essential, especially in winter, to make the property feel spacious and bright.

Enhancing Ambience
Creating a welcoming atmosphere is crucial. Focus on all senses—sight, smell, and feel. Open windows and pull back curtains to ensure the property feels dry and bright. Use candles, light a fireplace, play soft music, and add fresh flowers to create a warm and inviting environment.

Final Thoughts
Selling your home in winter has its advantages. With fewer competing listings and a pool of motivated buyers, you can achieve a successful sale. Harcourts Whangarei is here to guide you through the process, ensuring your property stands out and attracts the right buyers.