9 winter selling tips to help buyers cozy up to your home

Selling a home in winter has many challenges, some of which you can't control. But there are things you can do to turn up the warmth, charm and appeal of a home even on the most blustery of days. Here are just a few:

1. Take "no snow" photos. Sure, your home may look picturesque with snow on it, but buyers want a clear view of the home's features, not a winter postcard. Take photos of your home when your property is snow-free if at all possible.
2. Clear a path. It seems like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how many people don't keep their sidewalks and stoops clean. Nothing makes a bad first impression like battling through a snow drift or tip-toeing over ice, so remove ice and snow promptly, keep walks sanded, put all snow-clearing equipment out of sight and consider little conveniences, like placing a stand for buyers' umbrellas near entrances.
3. Let there be light. Winter's light is not as vibrant, so ensuring you capture as much of it as possible is important. Open every shade and blind, ensure windows have been professionally cleaned, and put on as many lights in the house as possible (consider higher wattage bulbs), even during the middle of the day. To assure maximum lighting even when you won't be there, put lights on a timer.
4. Turn up the cozy factor. Consider heating the house at a higher temperature than normal before prospects arrive, then setting it at normal range when the showing begins. There are two benefits to this: your heat most likely won't kick on with unwanted noise while your buyers are there, and you'll err on the side of the home being more comfy on a brisk winter day.
5. Decorate delicately. As with other home décor, holiday decorations should be used sparingly. Home stagers recommend "going green" and using natural decorations (and even those should be used sparingly). Warm up rooms with attractive throws and plush comforters.
6. Easy on the aromas. As with décor, too much aroma is a bad thing. Making sure your home has a welcoming and pleasant scent is a "yes." Using heavily scented candles or sprays is a "no." Try scents like lavender or even orange, but still use them sparingly. And it's true, the scent of chocolate chip cookies baking is still a top favorite.
7. Music. No matter what the season, playing music softly in the background creates a welcoming mood. Many home stagers recommend classical or jazz music.
8. Food. If you are going to have food and drinks available for buyers, stay seasonal. Hot cider and hot chocolate are always fun. A crock of soup or chili also makes for an easy to eat and satisfying snack, and could help ensure buyers linger.
9. Accentuate the winter positives. What makes your home location especially fun in winter? Are you near a skating pond or a park that offers places to sleigh ride or cross country ski? Is a ski resort nearby? Perhaps your town has a winter festival or other fun activities. Tell buyers about these attractions or even leave information for them to take away.

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