Tips for buying or selling in the winter months. What you need to know.

As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, it's clear that winter is just around the corner. For homeowners, this seasonal shift brings a unique set of challenges and opportunities, especially if you're considering selling or buying a home. Winterizing your home is crucial not only for comfort but also for maintaining its value and appeal. With so few homes on the market in the month of December, buyers will have less inventory to choose from. Therefore, the tour activity on your home's listing may be fairly active and you'll want to address certain items prior to a buyer booking a tour or bringing in their own home inspector through. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you prepare your home for listing in the cold months ahead.

 

Winterizing Your Home:

 

Winterizing your home involves taking steps to protect it from the harsh weather conditions that winter brings. Start by inspecting and sealing any gaps or cracks in windows and doors to prevent drafts. This simple task can significantly reduce your heating costs and keep your home warm and cozy. The last thing a buyer wants to feel when walking through your home is a draft. They may start to question the quality of construction and the energy efficiency. Here at Team NSRG we coach our sellers on keeping their homes at a comfortable temperature throughout the winter months. Homes tend to look their best when they're warm and inviting. Make sure your home is well-heated during showings and consider adding cozy touches like plush throws or a lit fireplace to create an appealing atmosphere. You only have one shot at making a first impression with a potential buyer and that should not include shivering or teeth chattering.

 

Next, check your heating system. Replace filters, clean ducts, and consider having a professional inspect your furnace or boiler to ensure it's running efficiently. An efficient heating system is not only cost-effective but also essential for maintaining a comfortable living environment during the cold months. Having the HVAC professionally serviced is one of the top requests a buyer makes during a home inspection. Better to get ahead of all of that prior to listing your home so there are no surprises.

 

Don't forget about your plumbing. Insulate exposed pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting. This includes pipes in your crawl space or one located on an outside wall of your home or garage. It's also wise to disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets to avoid any water damage. You can find hose bib insulators at your local hardware store for just a few dollars.Curb appeal can be harder to maintain during winter months due to snow and ice. Keep walkways clear and safe for potential buyers, and consider adding some seasonal decorations like wreaths or lights to make your home stand out.

 

Winter Organization:

 

Winter organization goes hand-in-hand with winterizing. Start by decluttering your living spaces. Store away summer items like beach gear, lawn furniture, and gardening tools. Bring out your winter essentials such as heavy blankets, space heaters, and snow removal equipment.

 

Consider organizing your garage or shed to make room for vehicles or other items that need protection from the elements. A well-organized space not only makes life easier but also adds to the overall appeal of your home if you decide to sell during the winter months. Always remember to keep items clear of things like your water heater, HVAC system and your electrical panel. This is not just for general overall safety, but a buyer's home inspector will need easy access to all of these systems during a home inspection. Most home inspectors will not move personal belongings to gain access.

 

For Buyers:

 

If you're in the market for a new home this winter, there are several advantages to consider. Fewer buyers mean less competition, which can translate into better deals and more negotiating power for you. Additionally, sellers who list their homes in winter are often motivated to close quickly, possibly leading to faster transactions.

 

However, buying in winter also means you'll need to be extra diligent during inspections. Ensure that the heating system is in good working order and that there are no issues with insulation or potential water damage from ice dams or frozen pipes. If the home is surrounded by tall trees be sure to inspect the roof for damage or debris. Drainage is another concern we tend to face here in the Pacific Northwest. Be on the lookout for standing water around the exterior of the home and signs that adequate drainage may not be present. If a crawl space is present, a home inspector will be able to determine if ground water has breached the foundation, if there is any cause for concern or if the installation of a sump pump is necessary.

 

Winterizing your home is an essential step in preparing for the colder months ahead. Whether you're planning to stay put, buy a new property, or sell your current one, taking these steps will ensure that you're ready for whatever winter throws your way. From sealing drafts to organizing storage spaces, each action contributes not only to comfort but also to maintaining or even enhancing the value of your property. So as you sip on that hot cocoa by the fire, take some time this season to prep your home for winter—your future self will thank you!