Nadine Waterfield

Mid Month Market Update - February, 2018

Sales in the first two weeks of February were up over the same period in January in most Central Alberta markets. Sales were down slightly or about the same as the first two weeks of February 2017 in most markets. 

The number of active listings is up in every market compared to last month, which is normal for this time of year. Some of the listing activity is old listings that didn’t sell last year coming on in time for spring. 

Is winter curb appeal really possible on the snowy prairies? It most definitely is! Here are five tips to help you achieve maximum curb appeal in the dead of winter:

#1 - Shovel. I know it seems like a no brainer but it really is so important. If you can’t get home before a showing when the snow has fallen, consider paying someone to remove the snow. It’s also a good idea to make sure you sand or salt any icy patches. 

#2 - Let there be light! Put bright bulbs in your outdoor lights. If your light fixtures are looking drab you may want to consider updating them to add some extra bling. If you have an evening showing during the winter, make sure that you leave all the outdoor lights on when you leave. It makes the approach to the house so much more welcoming.

#3 - What’s your number? House numbers are easy to update even during winter. Make a statement with bold numbers that will add some rich character to the house. 

#4 - The mailbox. I know that most of us don’t get much more than flyers in the mailbox these days but your mailbox can really be a great decorative piece. Consider updating your mailbox or giving the existing mailbox a DIY makeover. Since winter is not the time to paint your front door, you could add a pop of colour to the mailbox or give it that classic look with a flat black paint. 

#5 - The front door. Okay, so we’ve established that you can’t paint your front door in the dead of winter but you can make sure that it’s clean. Dress up the front door with a seasonal wreath to add colour.