Real Estate Matters
There are so many enjoyable autumn activities — from carving pumpkins to lounging around the bonfire.
Autumn can also be a great time to enter the housing market. While there may not be as many interested parties as there are during spring and summer, you may face less competition when selling your home. Motivated buyers often want to move into a new home before the holidays.
Before potential buyers visit your property, it can be beneficial to stage your home with fall-inspired touches to help it stand out.
Make use of light
As fall progresses and days grow shorter, your home may lack natural light. Provide plenty of additional lighting throughout your home — well-lit rooms help spaces appear larger and more inviting.
Go room to room and check for any shadowy areas that could benefit from a lamp or fixture upgrade. You can also place your lights on timers so they turn off automatically after showings, but make sure to regularly replace any burned-out bulbs.
If you’d like to enhance the lighting further, consider repainting walls in neutral tones such as white or soft gray — both reflect light beautifully.
Don’t forget exterior lighting! A warmly lit entryway not only improves safety, but also gives your home a welcoming glow and boosts curb appeal.
Turn on the heat
It’s important to keep your home comfortable during showings, especially on chilly fall days. Try to maintain a temperature between 70 and 73 degrees.
If it’s too warm, potential buyers may feel uncomfortable and distracted. If it’s too cold, they might worry that your heating system isn’t working properly. The right temperature helps people feel at ease — and that comfort can make a lasting impression.
Emphasize being cozy
Fall is the season of comfort, and your home should reflect that. Accent couches and chairs with soft pillows and throws in rich autumn tones. Add cozy rugs to warm up hard floors.
If you have a fireplace, stack some wood nearby or turn on your gas or electric unit during showings. A glowing fire instantly conveys warmth and makes it easy for buyers to imagine themselves relaxing there on a crisp fall evening.
Keep up the curb appeal
There’s plenty you can do to make your outdoor space shine this season. Simple upkeep goes a long way:
- Rake leaves regularly
- Patch brown spots in the lawn
- Plant colorful fall flowers such as mums and pansies
- Clean gutters
- Trim bushes and overgrown plants
- Add a fresh doormat
Adding pumpkin or two on the front porch adds a cheerful pop of color, but keeps decorations fresh and tidy. First impressions begin at the curb!
Keep holiday decorating to a minimum
While festive decorations are fun, less is more when your home is on the market. Too many seasonal items can distract buyers. Instead, choose a simple, elegant autumn theme — perhaps a harvest-inspired wreath or a few tasteful accents in warm fall colors.
Pumpkin spice and everything nice!
Wishing you a happy, safe and fun Halloween filled with good treats and cozy moments.
For More Real Estate Questions, Information and Advice Contact Elisa Jo Eagan “The Real Estate Godmother” (609)703-0432 and Remember…”There’s No Place Like Owning Your Own Home!”
