THE VOICE OF PROPERTY

CONTRARY to popular opinion, the property market does not grind to a halt in the run up to Christmas. While it may not be an ideal time, sometimes circumstances dictate that the house must be sold. According to valuer Daniel Cohen at Nicol Estate Agents in Newton Mearns and Clarkston, there are steps you can take to lessen the seasonal fallout.

“Presentation and good maintenance are a pre-requisite to selling at any time of year but particularly winter,” he says. “Tidy the garden, invest in some winter-flowering plants in planters to frame the front door, and take advantage of external lighting. A porch light always looks welcoming. And use the season to full advantage. A few twinkling lights on an outdoor shrub or fir tree can be pretty, as can a winter wreath.

“Indoors, the mantra has to be ‘warm and cosy’. Welcome viewers into a warm home with a lit fire if you have one as the main feature and heat bedrooms or spare rooms to maintain an even temperature with no sudden cold spots. A warm house

may encourage them to stay longer – and the longer they stay the more they look at the house. Lighting follows the same rule,” he adds. “After dark switch on all the lights and avoiding harsh overhead lights in preference for softer mood lighting.”

Finally, regardless of the season, clutter of any kind – even Christmas presents – are anathema. Estate agents recommend keeping furniture and accessories to a minimum to make your home look as airy and spacious.

COSY: Ensure your house is welcoming in winter.