As longtime residents of the Minneapolis Lakes area, Sarah Balestri and Kate Buckley know firsthand what makes this vibrant and walkable part of the city so special. Living near the shores of Lake Harriet and working from their Coldwell Banker Realty office on Bde Maka Ska, these two seasoned realtors bring over 30 years of combined experience to every transaction. They’re deeply thankful to call this community home and feel honored to help others do the same.
Whether you're looking to buy or sell in the lakes area or the surrounding neighborhoods, Sarah and Kate have the local expertise to help you navigate the market – especially during the often-overlooked fall and winter seasons.
Why Selling in the Fall and Winter Makes Sense
Many homeowners wait until spring to list their properties, but Sarah and Kate encourage sellers to consider the strategic advantages of listing during the colder months. Here's why:
1. Less Competition
With fewer homes on the market, your listing is more likely to stand out. Buyers have fewer choices, which can translate into more focused attention on your property and, potentially, quicker offers.
2. More Motivated Buyers
Fall and winter buyers tend to be more serious. Whether due to job relocations, end-of-year tax considerations, or a desire to be settled in a new home before the holidays, these buyers are ready to move.
3. Faster Transactions
Because real estate activity tends to slow down in colder months, mortgage lenders, inspectors, and appraisers often have more availability. That means fewer delays and potentially quicker closings.
4. A Cozy & Inviting Home
Shorter days and cooler weather offer the perfect backdrop for showcasing your home's warmth. Seasonal decorations, cozy textiles, and soft lighting can create an inviting ambiance that resonates emotionally with buyers.
5. End-of-Year Tax and Job Incentives
Buyers looking to take advantage of tax deductions or gearing up for a job change in the new year may be especially eager to close before December 31.
6. A Strategic Head Start
Listing in late fall or early winter means you'll beat the spring rush. Your home can attract attention before the flood of new listings hits the market—and you’ll be well-positioned to buy in the spring when inventory opens up.
7. Improved Curb Appeal
Without dense summer foliage, a home’s true architectural features become more visible. That charming gable or custom trim work might be completely hidden by a leafy tree in June—but beautifully showcased in November.
Tips for Prepping Your Home for a Cold-Season Sale
Sarah and Kate offer practical, proven strategies for preparing your home to impress during the cooler months:
- Spruce up your landscaping with seasonal plants or evergreen arrangements in pots or window boxes.
- Use seasonal décor to appeal to the widest range of buyers.
- Stay on top of raking and snow removal to ensure a safe and clean entry.
- Address exterior paint touch-ups before temperatures drop too low.
- Showcase unique winter features, like an ice rink if you're on a pond.
- Create a warm interior with layered throws, pillows, and flameless candles.
- Schedule exterior photos now to capture your home’s landscaping in full fall color.
- Keep exterior lights on so agents can access lockboxes and buyers feel welcome.
- Use a large, attractive entryway rug to manage snow and mud from boots during showings.
- Set a lamp on a timer near the front door for early evening showings.
- Maintain a comfortable temperature – around 70°F – to keep the home cozy during visits.
- Use subtle seasonal scents via diffusers or unlit candles (no plug-ins or overpowering fragrances).
Thinking About Selling This Fall or Winter?
If you're considering listing your home during the cooler months – or even planning ahead for an early spring sale – now is the time to prepare. With Sarah and Kate’s deep knowledge of the Minneapolis Lakes neighborhoods and their personalized, strategic approach, you'll be in expert hands from listing to closing.
For a consultation or to learn more about how to position your home for success, contact:
Sarah Balestri – 612-590-7703
Kate Buckley – 612-817-7554