The property market’s most motivated buyers come out for the Fall. The tyre-kickers who love the spring and summer selling seasons are gone by the time evenings become cooler and the leaves begin to turn.
Fall buyers have usually thought carefully about their future over the summer months, so they’re serious and focused but tend to be specific about their needs.
The market usually witnesses a trend for faster deals at this time of year because a buyer will often act quickly once they’ve found their desired purchase.
Smart sellers should seek advice and do some research to understand market conditions, competing properties and price-positioning before undertaking a campaign in the Fall.
As an experienced real estate agent I can provide you with this information and help you avoid simple mistakes. We’ll look at how you can take advantage of an autumn-time sale, using subtle but effective strategies inside and outside the home.
Giving your property a seasonal vibe can also have a beneficial impact on potential buyers. If you feel some of the rooms need painting, then consider whites and beige to fit the mood of the season.
Focus should fall on the garden where the soft browns and reds of foliage create a wonderful atmosphere.
Keep the lawn well-watered and mown, and apply nitrogen if it is still looking brown and tired from summer.
Kerbside appeal is always important but especially in the Fall when a fresh, vibrant garden can make a property stand out. Popular seasonal flowers include chrysanthemums and marigolds because they bloom for a long time and can be put in pots.
Seasonal colours can be applied to inside the house, too. Add furnishings such as a throw-rug of warm browns, oranges and yellows to keep the feel consistent. Fashionable colours feature-rich greens with warm, plush fabrics such as velvet – perfect for throw-cushions.
You might even consider a bowl of bright red apples on the kitchen bench, or a similar centrepiece on the dining table, for further accent.
Authentic, cultural wall-hangings and rugs add texture and atmosphere to any room and are at the cutting edge of home fashion right now.
Making the most of natural light is essential, too. Consider rearranging furniture to ensure the light through the windows has the maximum impact. If your windows haven’t been cleaned for a while, get it done. You’ll be amazed at the extra light that will flood into your home when they’re spotless.
Top tips for a sale in the Fall
- Time your viewings carefully. Make sure your viewings are held earlier to make the best of any sunshine.
- Focus on the gardens. Bring your property to life with a splash of bright marigold yellow to complement the soft browns and oranges of the season.
- Keep the seasonal colour scheme inside, too. Use a throw-rug and scatter-cushions in soft oranges and browns to create a subtle bridge between the garden and interior.
- Re-paint with soft colours. Use whites and beige colours to maintain the seasonal feel. Colours that might be suitable for summer can be a disaster at this time of year.
- Let the light in. Maximise the natural light. Move furniture away from windows and pull back curtains and blinds. Clean the windows, as summer storms can lay grime on the window panes, significantly filtering the light.
- Keep the lights on. It’s important to make your home bright, so keep on all the lights for every inspection. Use eco-friendly lamps to present your property as a modern home