Traditionally, the real estate market tends to slow down after Labor Day. This pattern appears more notable in neighborhoods with a significant student population and academic year enrollment. However, it is possible to attract buyers regardless of weather, and to take advantage of Mother Nature’s unique features of each season to highlight your home. Krista Ponti, Sales Associate of ERA Justin Realty, provides some tips for selling your home in the fall:
● Create curb appeal. Northern New Jersey is known for its brilliant foliage. Keep up with the landscaping to prevent your yard from being completely overshadowed by leaves in the windy autumn. Spruce up your porch and line the walkway with mums or other seasonal decor such as pumpkins or wreaths to create an inviting facade. Enhance, rather than distract, from the simple beauty and desirable aesthetics of your home.
● Weather proof and add value. Ask a professional to see if it’s time to replace an old hot water heater or furnace. Service your chimney and fireplace, ensuring they are ready to dazzle an eager buyer. Give your windows some upgrades and seal those sneaky drafts. Clear your gutters to prevent blocked drainage and maintain the details of a well kept home.
● Photos are a buyer’s first impression. Try to schedule exterior photos pre fall to capture your home when the plants are in bloom and the trees are full, or early fall to capture the foliage. Arrange the interior to avoid visual distractions. Declutter rooms and furniture, apply a fresh coat of paint, shine the floors or deep clean the carpets, and keep the home tidy for showings. Consider using a professional stager and moving some items to storage in order to prepare for photos, the sale, and your big move!
● Illuminate your home to highlight unique details. As the days become shorter, see that the house is optimally lit to display its most attractive features. Lighting not only strategically draws the eye in, but also makes for safer showings after dark. Outdoor solar lighting is a suggestion to keep energy costs low during the selling process.
● Price according to current market value. This is where your real estate agent is most valuable to selling your home. With market trends sometimes changing overnight, Krista as a trained real estate professional can provide you with the most recent data you need to make an informed decision to price your home right.
Call Krista Ponti or any of the sales agents at ERA Justin at 201-939-1500 for help selling your
home in any season.