5 ways to beat the British weather and sell your home in autumn and winter

Selling your home can be challenging at the best of times, but autumn and winter in Britain bring a unique set of challenges. As the run-up to Christmas looms and the days grow shorter, the colder seasons often seem like the least appealing time to put your property on the market. From gloomy skies and wet weather to the constant battle with mud, rain, and icy temperatures, it can feel like the British weather is working against you.

But fear not! While it may seem daunting to make your home stand out during this period, there are ways to turn these seasonal obstacles into selling points. With a few strategic adjustments, you can make your property look warm, inviting, and even cosy to prospective buyers, no matter the conditions outside. Below, we’ve compiled a list of common autumn and winter challenges along with our top tips on how to tackle them to present your home at its best.

1. Combatting gloomy lighting

As the days get shorter and overcast skies take over, one of the biggest concerns is the lack of natural light. Dim lighting can make your home appear less inviting during viewings and in marketing photos, but with the right approach, you can turn this to your advantage.

• Use artificial light effectively: If natural light is scarce, switch on the lights throughout your home during viewings. Opt for warmer-toned bulbs instead of harsh, bright white ones, which can feel cold and clinical.
• Create a cosy atmosphere: Consider layering your lighting with table lamps, floor lamps, and even fairy lights to add a soft, ambient hue. This not only makes your home feel warmer but also appeals to buyers looking for a snug retreat from the cold weather outside.
• Plan your marketing photos wisely: If you’re worried about poor lighting, schedule your property photos and video tours on days when the light is better. For an extra touch, try capturing some images during the golden hour—a time of day when the light is softer and particularly flattering in autumn.

2. Preventing mud, rain, and ice from entering your home

The soggy British weather often brings mud, rain, and even snow into homes during viewings, which can make keeping your property clean and tidy feel like an endless battle. But you can easily mitigate this issue with a well-organised entryway or cloakroom area.

• Create a functional, welcoming entrance: Equip your entryway with a coat rack or hooks for jackets and scarves, along with a shoe rack or bench for boots and wellies. This not only keeps your home tidy during viewings but also adds a practical, lived-in feel that buyers will appreciate.
• Don’t forget the doormat: A quality doormat is essential. Opt for something both practical and decorative, ensuring it looks neat while keeping dirt at bay. You can even consider an outdoor silicone doormat or a mud scraper to stop mess before it enters the house.

3. Keeping the cold at bay

There’s nothing worse than stepping into a chilly house during a winter viewing. While most homeowners naturally limit heating use to save on energy costs, it’s well worth warming your home ahead of viewings to ensure buyers feel comfortable as soon as they walk in.

• Turn the heating on before viewings: Make sure your home is pleasantly warm during viewing times—it gives an immediate sense of comfort and homeliness. You can also use soft furnishings like rugs to retain warmth and add to the cosy atmosphere.

4. Overcoming washed-out exteriors

The grey skies and leafless trees of winter can make exteriors look bleak, but with some thoughtful interior styling, you can bring warmth and life into your home, even in the dullest weather.

• Layering is key: Incorporate throw blankets, cushions, and rugs in rich, inviting colours to create a warm, layered look. These simple additions can transform your living spaces, making them feel more luxurious and comforting.
• Add seasonal touches: Small details like candles, autumnal centrepieces, or fresh seasonal flowers can elevate dining tables and coffee tables, creating a stylish, seasonal ambiance that buyers will love.

5. Battling damp and condensation

Damp is a common issue in British homes during the colder months, and it can be a real deal-breaker for prospective buyers. However, with the right preventative measures, you can keep moisture under control and ensure your home remains warm and dry.

• Ventilate your home: Regularly open windows, even on cold days, to allow fresh air to circulate and prevent moisture build-up. Proper ventilation can help avoid condensation and reduce the risk of mould.
• Wipe away condensation: Keep on top of condensation by wiping down windows as needed, particularly after cooking or bathing. This simple action can prevent long-term issues with damp or black mould.
• Invest in a dehumidifier: If your home is particularly prone to damp, a dehumidifier is a sound investment. It can help reduce moisture levels in rooms like kitchens, bathrooms, or any area where you typically dry clothes indoors.
• Use extractor fans: In bathrooms and kitchens, make sure extractor fans are used frequently to reduce humidity, especially after baths, showers, or cooking.

The key takeaway here is that a home that feels warm, dry, and well-ventilated will not only appeal to buyers but also provide them with peace of mind, knowing that they’re investing in a comfortable and well-maintained property.

Selling a home during autumn and winter doesn’t have to be an uphill battle against the elements. By addressing seasonal challenges and turning them into opportunities to showcase your home’s comfort and style, you can make your property a hot commodity, even in the chilliest months. With the right approach, British weather won’t stand a chance against your home’s appeal!

If you’re ready to get started, book a free valuation with Hawes & Co today and let us take care of the process so you can focus on the upcoming festive season stress-free.