With an average of 15% more buyers at open homes across the country since the election, according to a recent industry report, the remaining months of winter could be the perfect time for a property sale.

By way of background, Spring is deemed by many pundits as the best time to sell a property. However, with a winter sale, vendors will often have less competition. Listing and stock numbers in winter can be as much as 10-15% thinner in some markets – and even more.

That is the statistical rationale. However, vendors still need to do some work to engineer a sale. Fortunately, there are a few simple and inexpensive ways to make your house poke out from the rest. Make an excellent first impression by repairing and taking a high-pressure cleaner to your driveway and paving and cleaning outdoor light fixtures.

Think about giving your front door a coat of paint, polish the handle and hinges, and lay out a fresh new doormat.

Clean your gutters and rake up any leaves and tree branches that have been lying around since autumn. Trim dead branches and overgrown shrubs and spread mulch or bark for a beautiful neat look. It’s a great time to take a trip to the nursery. Strategically placed potted plants, hanging baskets, and bushes not only create an appealing impression; they can also be used to shield less attractive aspects of your yard or house from view.

Please make sure the inside of your home shines: give it rigorous clean, remove clutter, and paint scuffed or dreary walls. Please take advantage of any sunny days to air the house to get rid of musty smells where possible, and steam-clean carpets, so they smell fresh.

Darker winter days can make your property look less appealing to buyers. To combat this, invite as much light into your property as possible. Fling open the blinds and curtains and turn on ceiling lights and consider side lamps if extra light is needed. Proper lighting can make a room appear more open, airy, clean, and inviting to potential buyers.

If you’re considering a property sale, contact your local Raine & Horne agent, who can expertly guide you through the process.