Are you planning on listing your home in the summer real estate market? Preparing to list a home for sale requires thought, no matter the season. But in summer, there are a few unique considerations that you should be aware of. In this post, I’ll walk you through five of the most important summer selling tips.
1) You have to consider landscaping
In the summer, buyers will be looking closely at your outdoor space. Tidy lawns, flowers, grasses and other perennials, decks, patios and inviting outdoor furniture will all make a good impression. In contrast, unkempt grass, overgrown shrubs and weeds can be major turn-offs.
Potential buyers will want to imagine their family and friends enjoying the home—including the backyard, the front porch (if you have one) and backyard sitting areas. That’s why I always remind my clients to pay special attention to their landscaping at this time of year.
If you haven’t been as diligent as you could have been with your outdoor areas don’t worry – I can help! Gardeners can be called in to tame those weeds and shrubs and a few well-placed pots can take the pace of established perennials.
2) Your neighbourhood matters more
How well maintained are the other homes on your street? When selling a home in the summer, it’s not just your yard that buyers will be looking at. It’s the entire neighbourhood. At this time of the year, buyers may be spending more time viewing the outside of your property and the neighbours —which means undesirable features can really stand out.
Of course, you don’t have control over how your neighbours take care of their properties. What you can do is highlight the positive in your home. This is the time to make sure the exterior, as well as the interior of the property, is as eye-catching as possible and your outdoor areas as inviting as they can be. In some cases, a fence could be a great investment.
During conversations with potential buyers and in the marketing materials provided, your realtor should call attention to some of the most impressive outdoor areas in your community. It could make a big difference when they are considering your home later on.
3) The HVAC should be in top form
Many of us are content in a warmer indoor environment, even in the summertime. But remember that many buyers who view your home will be coming in from the hot sun and humidity. If they feel instant relief when they step inside, they will be more likely to leave with a positive association with your home.
Keeping your interior space between 19℃ and 22℃ will greatly improve the showing process for buyers. If your HVAC system isn’t running as well as it could be, get it serviced asap. Remember: creating a pleasant environment is one of the most crucial steps to selling your home!
4) Dust becomes more visible
This is the season when sellers can really make the most of natural light and can be one of the best times to sell a house. So open up those drapes or blinds before every showing. But when you do, be aware of what you might be illuminating.
Small amounts of dirt, dust, and pet hair can go unnoticed in dimmer conditions. But once a room is bright, the eye is drawn to them immediately. Dust can be particularly noticeable since it’s prone to float around as people move through a house.
Remember to dust frequently and clean your home in well-lit conditions so that you catch any and all problem areas.
5) Insects and other pests can be an issue
We’re all bound to get the odd bug in our home during the summer. Unfortunately, the sight of a beetle or spider can cause some buyers to question the cleanliness of a home.
If you’re putting your home on the summer real estate market, I suggest doing quick, regular inspections for insects. Giving your home a once-over before showings reduces the chances that home buyers will catch sight of an unwanted critter.
Of course, if you discover a mouse or a hidden infestation, it’s best to take care of it before listing. If you’ve had problems with pests in the past, consider investing in preventative measures, such as new caulking around windows, doors, and air vents.
Planning on listing your home in the summer? I know what homebuyers are looking for, and I can help you make the best possible impression. Get in touch and we can set up a time to discuss your needs!
