Woman in front of home with snow

16 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Home in the Winter

As a real estate broker, I’ve seen many sellers make common mistakes when listing their homes, especially during the winter months. While it might seem like the colder months aren’t the best time to sell, there are definitely opportunities. With fewer homes on the market, you can stand out. Let’s go over some of those key mistakes and simple strategies you can use to sell your home fast this winter.

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Winter Home Selling Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming Winter Is a Bad Time to Sell

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is waiting until spring to list their home. While winter may seem like a slower season, it can actually work in your favor. During winter, there’s less competition, meaning your home will stand out in a smaller pool of listings. 

Also, buyers who are house hunting in winter are often more motivated. Many of them have tight deadlines to make a home purchase (that’s why they are braving the winter cold to look at houses). These serious buyers can translate to quicker sales and stronger offers.

Overpricing Your Home

One of the most critical mistakes you can make is setting an unrealistic price for your home. Overpricing discourages serious buyers, leading to fewer showings and a home that sits on the market too long. 

Winter buyers, though motivated, are looking for good values and a good deal. They are budget-conscious and unwilling to overpay. Work with your real estate agent to analyze recent sales data and set a realistic price that is based on actual data and not your “gut feel.”

Poor Lighting

With shorter days, inadequate lighting can make your home dark and uninviting. Open curtains and blinds to maximize natural light, and replace dim bulbs with brighter ones. 

Whenever you have a showing, make sure you turn on every single lamp and light. It may feel like overkill, but trust me, it’s not. If overgrown trees or bushes block light from windows, trim them back to maximize the amount of natural light entering your home.

Mistakes to avoid when selling your home in the winter

Leaving Space Heaters in Sight

Space heaters can unintentionally signal to buyers that your home’s heating system is insufficient. Even if you only use them occasionally, seeing one during a showing can be a red flag. 

Store them out of sight—not just in closets where buyers might look. The best thing you can do is to remove all space heaters from your home. You don’t want to leave any doubt about your home’s heating system. 

Forgetting About Odors

Homes can easily develop stale or unpleasant odors during winter since windows are rarely opened. Buyers notice smells as soon as they walk in, and bad odors can instantly turn them off. 

Make sure you air out your house for a few hours before any showings. Get rid of the source of bad odors, such as garbage. You don’t want bad odor to be the deal breaker!  

Keeping the Home Too Cold

A chilly home can leave buyers uncomfortable and make them question the efficiency of your heating system. Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature to create a warm, inviting atmosphere during showings. 

Buyers are more likely to take their time exploring a cozy home, which can positively impact their overall impression. A warm home feels cared for, while a cold one might send the wrong message.

Ignoring Outdoor Features

Don’t forget to highlight your home’s outdoor features, even during the winter months. Buyers can’t fully appreciate outdoor amenities such as a pool, patio, or garden when hidden by snow or covered for the season.

Include photos of your outdoor space from warmer seasons in your listing. You can also include a detailed list of features, such as a pool, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, pizza oven, etc. If you have nice landscaping, don’t forget to let buyers know you have a mature perennial garden. You want buyers to see the full potential of your home.

Limiting Showings 

A common mistake sellers make is limiting showings. Never say no to any showing appointments, even if they’re inconvenient for you. I know stepping out for a walk isn’t as simple in winter, but make it work! Remember, selling your home is a numbers game. The more showings you have, the higher the likelihood of selling your home. Say yes to every showing request!

Neglecting Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is important no matter the season, and winter is no exception. An uninviting exterior can turn buyers away before they even step inside. 

Keep walkways and driveways clear of snow and ice for safety. Add simple seasonal touches like a wreath, outdoor planters, or a fresh doormat to make your home look warm and welcoming from the start.

Skipping the Driveway Maintenance

A snowy, icy, or poorly maintained driveway can instantly turn off buyers. If they struggle to navigate your property, they may assume other aspects of the home have been neglected as well. 

It’s a good idea to hire a snow removal service to keep your driveway safe and accessible for all showings. You want your home ready even for last-minute showing appointments.

Ignoring the Roof

Winter weather can damage your roof, and buyers will notice signs of trouble. Ice dams, caused by melting snow refreezing at the roofline, can lead to leaks and water damage. 

Regularly inspect your roof for snow buildup or ice formations, and address issues promptly. A well-maintained roof signals to buyers that your home is in good condition.

Skipping Winter Maintenance

Neglecting seasonal maintenance is one of the quickest ways to turn off buyers. Drafty windows, clogged gutters, leaky pipes, and icy walkways can make your home seem unprepared for winter. Proactively address these issues before listing your home to reassure buyers that it’s well cared for. Check out 18 Important Winter Home Maintenance Every Homeowner Should Do

Going Overboard with Holiday Decorations

Don’t go overboard with holiday decorations. It will just clutter your home and overwhelm buyers. Keep holiday decor minimal and tasteful to avoid distracting buyers from the home’s features. Make sure to remove decorations promptly once the holiday season is over.

Allowing Clutter to Linger

Clutter is one of the biggest turnoffs for potential buyers, regardless of the season. Clear countertops, tidy up toys, and organize closets to make every space look open and inviting. 

Buyers want to see the home’s potential without being distracted by personal items or mess. A clean, decluttered home allows them to imagine them to imagine themselves living in your home. Check out our Home Seller Checklist bundle to help you prepare your home for open houses and showings.

Failing to Highlight Energy Efficiency

In winter, buyers are especially mindful of heating costs and energy efficiency. Highlight upgrades like a new HVAC system, insulated windows, insulation upgrades, or any other energy-efficient features. If you have them, provide utility bills to show cost savings. These features can set your home apart and appeal to eco-conscious buyers.

Not Hiding Signs of Pets

Some buyers may be turned off by signs of pets in the home. Hide pet toys, beds, and bowls during showings, and clean thoroughly to eliminate any odors or fur. You want your home to appeal to the widest range of potential buyers. 

Home Selling Checklists Printable

Home Selling Checklists Printable

Are you selling your home? Get your 3 page home selling checklists printable.

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