Second only to the always crazy spring market, fall is busy time for real estate and a great season to sell. As the cooler weather approaches, now is the time to start preparing if you are planning to list your home before the holiday season. It has been a great year for real estate in Ottawa and these trends are expected to continue through the fall season; take advantage of the seller’s market and the beautiful fall scenery to showcase your home to its full potential. Here’s why selling your home in the fall is a great idea and how to do it right.

A time for new beginnings

There is something about fall that triggers an emotional response in people. This response is likely rooted back to being kids and starting school. After summer vacations, it’s time to get focused and for this reason, fall is a great time sell. It may not be the frenzy of the spring market but fall consistently brings out many serious buyers.

Take Advantage of the Season

Each season brings its own set of advantages and challenges when it comes to real estate and fall is no different. With careful planning you will be able to optimize these advantages and manage the challenges that come with listing your home this time of year. Here are 5 things to consider as you prepare your home for the real estate market.

1) Create fall curb appeal

Fall is all about warm colours so ensure that you take advantage. The trees will be bursting with reds, yellows, and oranges and this can showcase a home beautifully. To add to this, try incorporating some fall décor around your home. Mums are available everywhere this time of year so as your summer blooms fade, replace them with these hearty and long blooming flowers. You can also incorporate pumpkins and other types of squash for an added effect.

2) Keep the yard clean

To keep your yard looking top notch, make sure to keep it clean and clutter free. Make sure to rake dead leaves and other debris regularly and take care of any unsightly garbage. Clean out your gardens as the summer plants begin to fade and now is great time to trim back bushes and trees (this will not only improve the curb appeal but will also allow more light to come in as the days get shorter).

3) Bring the fall indoors

In terms of décor, summer is all about bright vibrant colours but in the fall you will want to showcase your home as warm and inviting on a cool day. Incorporate fall colours in your décor. Small pumpkins and gourds make a great centerpiece for any table and don’t forget to incorporate throws and other heavier décor items around your home. If you regularly decorate for Thanksgiving, pull out those items early as they are perfect for the entire season.

4) Make it bright

As the days get shorter and cooler, a home can seem dim and dark. Make sure that your home is bright for all showings and open houses. Open all the curtains and clean all the windows (inside and out) to ensure optimal natural light. Make sure that all the lights are on and all lightbulbs are working. If you are short on lights, lamps are an affordable accent piece that can brighten up any room.

5) Keep it warm and comfortable

Fall weather can vary dramatically and you will want ensure that your home is always the perfect temperature. On warmer days, open the windows to allow the cool fall breeze to flow through your home. As it gets chillier, make sure that your furnace is set to a warm and comfortable temperature.

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