It's a common misconception that selling your home in winter is a waste of time. The good news about this unfounded belief, however, is that there are fewer listings on the market, resulting in less competition for you and more competition for home buyers - the stakes are higher for buyers and they're more likely to loosen their criteria for finding their perfect home. If you're considering a winter sale, here are 5 things to get sorted before taking your home to market:

1. It's Gutter Happen 

It's a dirty job, but somebody's gotta do it, so give your gutters a much-needed clean out before the open house. Not only are leaf-laden gutters unsightly, but you don't want buyers having to dodge cascading waterfalls on the way to the front door due to clogged gutters in the event of rain. Before you reach for the rusty step ladder, consider some safety precautions, including how sturdy the ladder is and whether the old knees are up to the job. Too risky? Hire a specialist who knows what they're doing that can also clear away any roof-top debris and install downpipes if required.

2. Curtain Care 

A good sturdy curtain can provide added insulation for keeping the winter chills out and the warm heating in. Being winter, buyers will want to know what your windows are packing, so make sure when they reach for a curtain inspection, your drapes are both clean and functional. If you can't remember the last time your curtains had a wash, take them down and pop them in the machine. Not sure if they are machine washable? Meet Dr Drapes, who'll pick up, dry clean AND re-hang your curtains, so you don't have to lift a finger or try to decipher cryptic care instructions.

3. Pack'n'Save

Storage space is high on buyers' list of prerequisites, so create some room in your cupboards by vac-packing all your summer clothes and beach towels. You can pick up a set of 4 vacuum seal storage bags from Kmart for only $12. Overdoor hooks are another secret to creating more shelving space and are ideal for wardrobes or even behind bedroom and bathroom doors to conceal night gowns, towels, scarves, beanies, belts and winter jackets.

4. Chimney Checkup

If you're lucky enough to have a fireplace, use it to your advantage and set the mood for an open home. Before you do though, make sure it's in peak condition ahead of time to avoid smoking out prospective buyers and risking fire hazards. If not properly maintained, a substance called creosote can build up on the chimney walls, which can prevent smoke from exiting the chimney top, and even catch fire, potentially causing structural damage to your home - not a good look for an open home! Depending on how often you use it, Melbourne Chimney Sweeping recommend giving it a sweep once a year to keep it safe and clean. If it's a non-functioning fireplace, don't let it disappoint - instead, celebrate the space with these decorative disused fireplace ideas.

5. But first, coffee!

Who's going to say no to a warm hot choc, aromatic coffee or relaxing chamomile on a cold winter's day? This little touch will encourage people to linger for longer and relax into the home, as they would if it were their own. Invest in a reusable coffee menu chalkboard and let buyers know what's on the menu, and consider some homemade accompaniments to complete the experience. 

Thinking about selling your home this winter? Take the first step today - get in touch with a Pennisi Sales Agent who can answer any questions you have regarding the sales process and prepare a free home appraisal of your property based on recent sales and auctions in your area. Call (03) 9379 5616 to get started.