When it comes to selling your home in Santa Cruz, first impressions are everything. And that first impression often comes from your home’s curb appeal. But in the winter months, when the weather can be harsh and dreary, it can be challenging to make your home look its best. However, with a few simple tips, you can boost your home’s curb appeal and make a great first impression on potential buyers. Here are five tips for Santa Cruz home sellers to use during the winter months that will help boost curb appeal and get the house sold.
1. Keep Walkways Clear
One of the most important things you can do to improve your home’s curb appeal in the winter is to keep your walkways clear. In Santa Cruz, we do not get too much ice, only on occasion.. We so however get winter debris, such as sticks, dirt, and rocks. If you are to take the time to clear the pathway to the front door, this will make your Santa Cruz home look more inviting and also makes it safer for potential buyers to visit your home. You wouldn’t want someone to come for a showing and leave with a sprained ankle. Be sure to clear your driveway, walkways, and any other areas where buyers will be walking.
2. Add Winter Greenery
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean your home’s landscape has to look barren. Adding some winter greenery, such as evergreen trees and shrubs, can add a pop of color and life to your home’s exterior. You can also add some winter flowers, such as pansies or winter jasmine, to your landscape for some additional color. While decorations may be everywhere for the holiday season, be sure to choose simple and tasteful styles for your yard that will appeal to all buyers, no matter their personal tastes. In general, I do not recommend that my Santa Cruz home sellers decorate for the holidays except maybe a few light touches..
3. Light It Up
In the winter months, it gets dark earlier, which means potential buyers may be visiting your home after dark. Make sure your home is well-lit, both inside and outside. Add some outdoor lighting, such as path lights or spotlights, to highlight your home’s best features. You can also add some festive lighting, such as string lights or icicles, to add some charm and warmth to your home while also celebrating the season. If you are not living in your home during the sale process it may be wise to consider getting some lighting that is on timers. That way not only will your Santa Cruz home be well lit during home showings, it can also potentially deter anyone who may think it is vacant from trying to break in or vandalize your home.
4. Keep It Clean
Winter weather can be messy, so it’s essential to keep your home’s exterior clean and tidy. Make sure to clean your gutters, windows, and any other exterior surfaces regularly to keep them looking their best. You may also want to power wash your home’s exterior to remove any dirt or grime that has built up over time. If you would like assistance finding and scheduling the appropriate vendor to take care of sprucing the exterior of your Santa Cruz home, let me know. We have a great network of local professionals that can help with all jobs, big and small!
5. Create a Cozy and Inviting Atmosphere
When potential buyers visit your home during the winter months, you want to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Make sure your home’s interior is warm and inviting by adding some cozy touches, such as throw blankets and pillows. You can also add some seasonal decor, such as a wreath or some winter-themed artwork, to add some charm and personality to your home. We love helping with the decor, so if you are at a loss, with the help of our team of designers and stagers and our passion for making every home beautiful, you can call on us and we will make it gorgeous!
Selling your home in Santa Cruz during the winter months doesn’t have to be a challenge. In fact, it can be much easier and faster than the home-selling frenzy that typically happens in the summertime. By following these five tips, you can boost your home’s curb appeal and make a great first impression on potential buyers. Remember, a little effort can go a long way in making your home look its best, even in the coldest and dreariest months of the year. Are you ready to sell your house in Santa Cruz? Reach out to Shemeika Fox- Your Santa Cruz Real Estate Expert to find out what we can do for you! 831-588-2334