Many people assume that real estate sales come to a screeching halt when selling your home in the fall/winter months. In this hot market there is really no bad time to sell. Any challenges to selling in the fall winter are easily solved with a few practical tips.

The first and most important tip for the exterior of your home is to keep all paths and driveways clear of leaves and snow and salt the same areas when selling your home in the fall/winter months. You should clear as many leaves as possible in the yard for the optimum effect of a well maintained home and yard. Think of planting decorative kale and mums and displaying gourds and pumpkins for colour. Add fresh mulch to floor beds to make them appear clean and attractive. White lights on the exterior of the house are always attractive and are decorative without being Christmasy. On the other hand, do put out a snow man and coloured lights at Christmas but keep all decorations understated.

For the interior of your home; the foyer is the first room people will see. It must be pristine in its cleanliness to make the first impression of your home a positive one.

Try to present an environment that is clean and bright, with a warm and cozy atmosphere when selling your home in the fall/winter months. I always advise that a fresh coat of neutral coloured paint ( done by a good, professional painter), is the best thing you can do to show your home at its best.

Open all blinds and window coverings and put on every light in the house (even for daytime showings)when selling your home in the fall/winter months. Consider checking out the latest in light bulbs to flatter each room to show at its best. Bring in extra floor lamps to light those dark corners of rooms to give the appearance of a larger space.

Drape beautifully coloured throws over the back of couches and chairs and light some colour coordinated, unscented candles to add warmth. All fireplaces should be lit to show at their best advantage.

Think of preparing a beautifully set dining room table to showcase the room and accentuate the entertainment possibilities. Use fresh flowers and/or other attractive arrangements for the table and the kitchen area.

Colourful fresh fruit on a kitchen island will always add character and warmth to the kitchen space. Consider simmering an apple and cinnamon cider on the stove or the old standard of baking cookies just prior to the viewing.

Use plump, plush throws and quilts to add a cozy and inviting look to your bedrooms.

When selling your home in the fall/winter months, be sure to clear off any patios and leave all outdoor furniture out to give the viewer a positive impression of outdoor living and entertaining possibilities.

If it is the Christmas season, by all means, decorate. Just be very subtle and tasteful about it. Don’t overdo it. Of course, if you have very high ceilings in your living room, have a big, tall, Christmas tree. It will only accentuate the advantages and beauty of the high ceiling.

Of course the most important quality you can present is a clean and well-maintained home.

Now relax…enjoy the beautiful atmosphere you created. No one can resist that—not even you!