No need to freeze your plans this Winter – John McGrath

Winter has now officially begun and with the new and chillier season comes a traditionally slower time for real estate overall.

But this doesn’t mean you should wait until Spring to sell your home. In fact, contrary to what many people believe, Winter is the ideal time for property vendors.

It’s true that unlike last Winter, both sellers and buyers are facing the possibility of more interest rate increases this year. The recent Federal Budget investor tax changes are also something to keep an eye on.

Yet I maintain that Winter still has plenty to offer vendors wanting to sell. Here’s why.

1. Take advantage of lower stock levels

Plenty of home owners step back from listing their homes in Winter, preferring to wait until the habitually busier, Spring period.

But this doesn’t mean you have to do so as well. By sticking to your sales plans while listings are low, your property will have a much better chance of standing out to potential buyers.

2. Smaller groups of motivated buyers

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: truly motivated buyers will purchase, regardless of the weather. They’ll actively house hunt when other, less interested buyers, stay at home or go on holiday.

So again, Winter can equal a smaller, but committed, group of buyers at open homes. These same buyers are particularly keen to find a home before Spring begins; in other words, they’re keen to act quickly on their next purchase.

3. Show off your property’s best points

Winter’s cooler, shorter days shouldn’t deter from your property’s appeal. With a fireplace, or other heating, your home can still offer potential buyers a warm and cosy ambience.

Gardens where deciduous trees have now lost their leaves can feature inviting places to enjoy too. And, these trees can result in better views across nearby areas, which would be blocked in Spring.

Don’t forget too that in some locations, such as Queensland, Winter offers the year’s best weather in terms of sunshine. While these places can still be very cool in Winter, buyers at open homes won’t have to endure Summer’s extreme heat.

They can also instantly discover the best spots for light and shade throughout the property, which they may not be able to do in other locations.

3. Swifter Winter sale can mean easier Spring purchase

Finally, a fast Winter sale will leave buyers perfectly positioned to buy in Spring. You’ll have money in your hand to purchase again, which is always more acceptable to vendors than a loan – and that’s just for a start.

The concern over how much you might be able to afford will largely, be gone. And, with your recent sale behind you, you’ll know far more about the overall market, and how and what works best for you.

The next three months will certainly allow sellers to enjoy less competition, committed buyers, and the chance to showcase their property in a way they might not be able to do in any other season.