Preparing to Sell Your Home This Autumn and Winter

Expert advice from Fearnalls – The Chester Estate Agents

As the evenings draw in, leaves start changing colour and there is a noticeable chill in the air, many homeowners assume that the property market slows down, but that’s not necessarily the case. Autumn and winter can be a good time to sell. With fewer properties on the market and more serious buyers looking to move before the new year, your home can really stand out.

Here are our top tips for presenting your property at its best through the colder months:

1.Make a warm first impression

Kerb appeal counts all year round, but it’s especially important when the days are shorter and the weather less predictable. Tidy away fallen leaves, clean paths and driveways, and add a splash of colour with seasonal plants such as pansies, cyclamen or winter heather. Good outdoor lighting also makes a huge difference and provides a welcoming glow as buyers arrive to set the right tone before they even step inside.

2.Create comfort indoors

When buyers walk in from the cold, you want them to feel instantly at home. Keep rooms warm (but not stuffy) and well-lit, open curtains fully to maximise daylight, and switch on table lamps to create a cosy atmosphere. A soft throw on the sofa or the gentle flicker of a fire can make a space feel inviting and memorable.

3.Light it up

Natural light is in short supply during the winter, so do all you can to enhance it. Clean windows inside and out, consider lighter window dressings, and make sure all bulbs are working, preferably with warm, energy-efficient lighting. Mirrors can also help reflect light and add a sense of space.

4.Highlight energy efficiency

With energy costs still a talking point, buyers will be paying attention to how efficient your home is. If you’ve upgraded insulation, installed a new boiler, or fitted double glazing, make sure these points are front and centre in your marketing. Small touches such as smart thermostats or draught excluders also help show your home is warm and well cared for.

5.Get your timing right

Autumn often brings motivated buyers keen to complete before Christmas, while early January traditionally sees a flurry of new activity as people start planning for the year ahead. Listing your home in autumn, or preparing now for a New Year launch, can position you perfectly for both markets.

6. Add subtle seasonal style

A few carefully chosen seasonal touches can help your home feel extra welcoming – think soft textures, warm tones, or a simple wreath on the door. If you’re marketing in December, keep any decorations tasteful and understated so they enhance, rather than detract from your home’s best features.

7. Keep it tidy and accessible

With wet leaves, muddy shoes and darker evenings, it’s easy for hallways to look less than their best. Keep entrance areas clean and clutter-free, and make sure driveways, steps and paths are safe and well-lit for viewings.

In summary

Selling in the cooler months offers real opportunity. With the right preparation, your home can look and feel more appealing than ever. By focusing on warmth, light, and comfort, you can help buyers imagine themselves spending their next Christmas right where you are now.

If you’re thinking about selling this autumn or winter, we’d be delighted to help you plan your next move. Get in touch with the Fearnall’s team for friendly, professional advice and a free, no-obligation market appraisal.