When it comes to selling a home, spring is often considered the prime season. However, if you’re selling a lake home, fall can actually offer unique advantages. At Okoboji Realty, we specialize in lake real estate year-round, and selling in the fall presents a distinct set of opportunities. Here are some tips and insights to help you maximize your lake home’s appeal and ensure a successful sale during the fall season.
Use Spring Photos in Marketing
While you’re selling in the fall, prospective buyers may be imagining themselves at your property during warmer months. Good-quality photos are key to making an excellent first impression. Statistics show that homes with professional photography sell 32% faster. If possible, use photos from spring or summer to showcase your property’s best features—lush green landscapes, shimmering waters, and vibrant outdoor spaces. These images help buyers envision the lake lifestyle they’re looking for, even if they’re purchasing in the cooler months.
Prioritize Curb Appeal
Fall leaves may be beautiful, but piles of them can detract from your home’s curb appeal. Ensure your yard is neat and the shoreline is well-maintained. In lake real estate, curb appeal extends beyond the house itself to the waterline and any docks or outdoor spaces you have. Clean up any debris, make sure the shoreline is landscaped, and consult your real estate agent about any enhancements that might boost your home’s appeal.
Go Easy on the Home Decor
While fall decorations can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, avoid going overboard. Buyers need to imagine themselves in the space, so stick to neutral decor with subtle seasonal touches like a few pumpkins or autumn flowers. Excessive or overly personal decorations can be distracting and may turn off potential buyers.
Price It Correctly
Even in a high-demand market like lakefront properties, pricing your home right is essential. While COVID-19 has sparked an interest in lake homes as perfect social-distancing retreats, buyers are still price-conscious. Set a fair price with the help of a local, lake-focused agent who knows the market trends and how seasonal factors may affect the value of your property. Listing your home at an attractive price point can generate serious interest and lead to a quicker sale.
Highlight Seasonal Features
Fall is the perfect time to highlight cozy features like fireplaces, wood stoves, or outdoor fire pits. Make sure these amenities are showcased during showings or in your home’s listing photos. Buyers looking to purchase in the fall are often attracted to the idea of cozying up in front of a fire while enjoying the crisp autumn air. Staging your outdoor areas, like patios or decks, can also help buyers visualize themselves living in the space year-round.
Find a Lake-Focused Agent
Lake real estate is unique, and selling a lake home requires specialized knowledge. Buyers are often looking for a second home or a vacation property, so their priorities may differ from those of primary homebuyers. A lake-focused real estate agent understands the local market, knows what buyers want, and can guide you on everything from staging to pricing. At Okoboji Realty, we pride ourselves on being experts in the Iowa Great Lakes Region, offering insight into what makes your lake home stand out in the fall market.
Take Advantage of Fall’s Natural Beauty
Fall is a season that showcases the natural beauty of the Iowa Great Lakes Region. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn foliage can create a picturesque backdrop for your property. Be sure to keep outdoor spaces tidy and allow potential buyers to experience the full beauty of your home’s surroundings. If your home offers lake views or sits on a wooded lot, fall is the time to emphasize these features.
Less Competition, More Serious Buyers
Most sellers list their homes in the spring or summer, meaning the fall market often has fewer properties for sale. With reduced competition, your home has a better chance of standing out. Additionally, fall buyers tend to be more serious and motivated, often driven by work relocations or the desire to settle before the holiday season. As a seller, you benefit from the urgency and focus of these buyers, potentially leading to quicker offers.
Consideration for Winterization
If your lake home is a second property or seasonal residence, it’s important to prepare for winter. Buyers will appreciate knowing that the home is winter-ready, especially if they plan to use it during the colder months. Ensure that docks, patios, and outdoor areas are in good condition and consider scheduling any necessary repairs before listing your property.
Seize the Fall Real Estate Opportunity
In the Iowa Great Lakes Region, fall offers a unique opportunity to sell your lake home. The combination of fewer competing listings, beautiful fall scenery, and serious buyers creates the perfect environment for a successful sale. By working with a lake-focused real estate agent and showcasing your home’s seasonal appeal, you can turn fall into the ideal time to sell.
Ready to Sell?
At Okoboji Realty, we’re here to guide you through the process of selling your lake home, no matter the season. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you make the most of the fall market and sell your home for its true value.
