It’s generally accepted that the best time to sell your property is in the Spring when flowers are budding and gardens look at their best. Everyone is positive and thinking about, well, moving home.

Of course, sometimes we just have to move for other reasons, such as a change of job or circumstances.

Selling your home in winter has its challenges.

For a start, days are short and light is poor, so homes always look darker and feel less inviting. Finding time for potential buyers to view becomes more challenging. Also, gardens always tend to look at their least inviting and doorsteps are more likely to be muddy! Positive first impressions matter and are harder to make.

Secondly, there is that big bugbear called Christmas in the middle of winter, meaning that buying or selling property over the Christmas period is likely to take more time as people take time off or get less productive as the Christmas party season arrives.

All of these factors considered, there are some things working in your favour. You can use these to your advantage. Here are our top five;

1. Make sure all paths, driveways and external areas are tidy, well swept and clear of mud and leaves. Clean all windows and the front door and tidy the entrance porch and, if necessary, redecorate this area.
2. Make sure that all lights are working properly as first viewings are likely to be at night. Make sure to put all lights on during viewings so that your home seems warm, light and inviting.
3. Don’t be stingy with the heating! Make sure the place is warm before the time of expected viewings. Make sure bathrooms and kitchens aren’t all steamed up during a viewing.
4. If you have an open fire, now’s the time to use it! Lots of buyers LOVE open fires and during the summer it’s hard to present this attractive feature without looking like some sort of lunatic!
5. Spice things up! Pleasant smells make a big difference to first impressions. Baking smells, coffee, subtle scented aromas and things like mulled wine, etc tend to send us back to happy times. Exploit and co-ordinate your inner Mary Berry!

Whatever time of year you are selling, make sure your property is well-presented. Do all those odd jobs you’ve avoided for months or even years. If you redecorate, keep things neutral. One woman’s good taste is another’s nightmare chintz!

Related articles:

• Documents Needed When Selling Your Property
• What are the costs of selling a house?