Five Tips to Prepare Your Home for the Winter Sale

Winter Home

Winters in Toronto and the GTA area don’t just bring snow with it but also a season full of buying and selling opportunities. Human beings are visual creatures, and we get attracted to what we see. So, if you want to acquire some great offers when selling your home this winter, it’s essential to prepare your home before listing.

1. First impression matters

You only get one first impression, so make it count by keeping the exterior appearing top notch. There may be grime that accumulated due to snow and ice, it’s recommended to clean the exterior, such as windows and siding before listing your property. Also, consider cleaning the front door and adding planters near the entrance.

2. Declutter, purge and depersonalize

Decluttering is a crucial step when listing your home. Begin packing! Only leave out the items that you use daily. Everything else can be packed away.

Fireplace area staged for sale with a hot beverage and red decorations for winter by StyleBite Staging in Toronto.

Remember the closets as well.  Buyers will open closets so they can determine the amount of storage in the home. Remove at least half of the contents of the closet to show buyers there’s plenty of room. You may also want to consider adding lights to the inside of the closets to make them look bigger

All white bedroom staged for sale with wood bedframe and white decor for winter by StyleBite Staging in Toronto.

 3. Let there be light 

Lighting is one of the most important aspect when marketing your home. Brighten up your home in this dark winter. Regardless of the time of day, consider turning the lights on during showings. Make sure to replace any burned out bulbs. The home best shows with multiple layers of lighting, therefore, try to have multiple sources of lighting, such as natural light, floor lamps, table lamps and ceiling lights.

Use light coloured drapes and pull them back to let as much light in as possible. Also, leave your blinds/shutters open during showings.

4. Create a Cozy and inviting space by staging the home

Its no secret that a staged home sells faster and potentially for more money. Staging a home means highlighting your property’s best features. It shows much better in online photos compared to competing homes in the market. Staging also helps potential buyers envision themselves in the home and form an emotional connection. This helps you get the best price!

5. Keep the temperature up 

Keep in mind that you are selling an experience when you are selling your home. Even if no one’s living in the house, make sure the temperature is set to a comfortable level during showings.

Home Staging
mythily

While you may be tempted to wait until the last minute, taking a little time now can save you a lot of hassle and stress down the road. If you’re in need of some help getting your home ready for sale, our Home Staging Toronto experts are here to assist. Give us a call today—we would love to help get your home winter-ready

1. Personal Photos and Religious Items

Your family photos and religious artifacts may be meaningful to you, but they can make it harder for buyers to imagine themselves living in the space. To create a neutral atmosphere that appeals to a wider audience, pack these items away before listing your home.

2. Medications and Valuables

For safety and privacy reasons, all medications should be stored securely out of sight. The same goes for valuables like jewelry, cash, and important documents. Keeping these items locked away ensures they remain safe and prevents any unnecessary distractions for potential buyers.

3. Personal Documents

Any papers containing personal information—such as bank statements, bills, or personal letters—should be kept out of sight. You want to protect your privacy and maintain a clutter-free look in your home.

4. Light Fixtures, Chandeliers, or Artwork You Plan to Take

If there are any fixtures or decor pieces that you want to bring to your new home, it’s best to remove them before showings. Buyers may fall in love with an item that isn’t included in the sale, leading to unnecessary disappointment or negotiations. Replace any removable items with neutral alternatives to maintain a cohesive look.

5. Pets and Pet Accessories

Not all buyers are pet lovers, and some may have allergies. If possible, arrange for your pets to stay elsewhere during showings. Additionally, remove pet beds, litter boxes, and food bowls to eliminate any odors or mess that could turn buyers away.

6. Fireplaces

While a lit fireplace might seem like a cozy touch, it’s best to keep it turned off during showings for safety reasons. Instead, stage it beautifully to showcase its potential without any risks.

7. Strong Odors and Air Fresheners

Avoid overpowering scents, whether from air fresheners, scented candles, or lingering cooking smells. While you may love a particular fragrance, strong scents can be off-putting to buyers. Instead, opt for fresh air circulation by opening windows before showings.

8. Cooking Smells

Refrain from cooking strong-smelling foods before showings, as odors can linger and create an unpleasant atmosphere. Stick to mild, neutral scents to keep the home feeling fresh and inviting.

9. Garbage and Cluttered Countertops

Take out the trash before every showing to prevent any lingering odors. Additionally, clear off kitchen and bathroom countertops to create a spacious, organized look. Clutter-free surfaces help buyers focus on the home’s features rather than personal belongings.

10. Yourself!

While you might want to stay during showings to answer questions, it’s best to step out. Buyers feel more comfortable exploring a home without the seller present, allowing them to freely discuss their thoughts with their realtor. Give them space to envision their future in your home.


Final Thoughts

By removing these items, you create a neutral and welcoming environment that appeals to a wider range of buyers. The goal is to help them see the full potential of your home without unnecessary distractions.

Want expert insights on home staging in Toronto? Watch the video below for practical tips from a professional home stager! For more Toronto realtor tips, stay tuned for our latest posts and advice.

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