Spring is a great time to sell a house. And here in Northeast Ohio, spring comes early — at least in the real estate market.
Families who want to move before the start of the school year start searching for houses in February. That seems early, but keep in mind that many homes are on the market for an average of 45 days. Add another 60 to 120 days for closing, and before you know it, summer’s here.
Picture It
If you’re thinking about selling your house next year, right now is a good time to get professional, high-quality photographs of your home and property. Buyers increasingly are doing their preliminary shopping online through real estate websites such as Zillow. First impressions count, and those photographs both inside and outside of homes can either draw buyers in or chase them away.
Most homes look their best when landscaping is in full bloom and trees have leaves on them. At the very least, snow should not mask details of the property.
Get professional photographs now of the outside of the house. Showcase the landscaping and mature trees. Photos free of snow and ice allow prospective buyers to check out the roof, and the condition of walkways and the driveway, outbuildings, decks and porches.
Have the professional get shots of the outdoor seating areas with furniture, tables and the grill. That gives buyers an opportunity to picture how they might use outdoor spaces.
Snow and ice hamper exterior shots, and the cloudy days that accompany them affect interior shots, too.
The bright light of late summer and fall is a good time to get those inside photos. Our cloudy winter days make rooms look dim and drab. Bright, clean interiors attract buyers.
To generate interest in your home next year, get in touch with a real estate professional today and have photographs taken and available to post online at the end of winter. Lush landscaping, cookout-ready patios, and cheery rooms are important selling points. Use them.
Dianna Hosta-Stickney is a real estate consultant with Cutler Real Estate in Middleburg Heights and Strongsville. Contact her at 440-785-6800 or DiannaSellsHomes.com.
