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Warm & Welcoming: Winter Staging Secrets for a Successful Sale

Key Facts:

  • Winter staging accentuates the cozy and inviting aspects of a home, enhancing its appeal.
  • Strategic lighting and warm color schemes create a comforting atmosphere for buyers.
  • Staged homes in winter can stand out in the market, attracting serious interest.

A Season of Opportunity for Sellers

Staging your home during the winter months presents a wonderful opportunity to showcase its cozy and inviting features. In this competitive real estate market, effective staging is key to not only enhancing your home’s appeal but also making it a standout choice for potential buyers.

Creating a Memorable First Impression & Enhancing Curb Appeal

The journey of captivating potential buyers begins the moment they approach your home. A well-lit path to a welcoming entrance, free of clutter, sets a positive tone. Curb appeal is crucial, even in winter. Maintain a neat exterior, touch up any peeling paint, and consider adding hardy plants for a touch of green. These small efforts can have a significant impact on a buyer’s first impression.

 

front door

Illuminating with Warm Lighting and Rich Colors

As winter days are shorter, the role of lighting in staging becomes pivotal. Utilize warm, soft lighting to create an inviting ambiance throughout the home. Incorporate table lamps, floor lamps, and dimmer switches to enhance the cozy feel, especially during evening viewings. In addition, complement this with a palette of warm, earthy tones and rich textures. Soft throw blankets, plush pillows, and tastefully chosen decor can transform a space into a haven of comfort and warmth.

winter staging in living room

Staging Living Areas for Comfort and Connection

Focus on staging living areas as spaces of comfort and relaxation. A well-presented fireplace, with neatly stacked logs and a clean hearth, can become the centerpiece of a living room. Even without a fireplace, arranging furniture to encourage conversation and social interaction can create a warm, inviting atmosphere. This is also an opportunity to weave a narrative through your home, with each room telling a part of the story, whether it’s a cozy reading nook or a dining room set for a family gathering.

winter staging for warmth and comfort

Appeal to the Senses and Incorporate Seasonal Touches

Engaging the senses is a subtle yet powerful staging technique. Introduce winter-friendly scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or pine to subtly enhance the home’s appeal. This sensory experience, combined with tasteful seasonal decor, can add charm without overwhelming the space. Remember, the goal is to complement the home’s natural ambiance, not overpower it.

dusting table

Understanding Real Estate Market Trends

The winter season often sees less competition among sellers, making it a strategic time to list your home. Buyers tend to have more urgency, and a well-staged property can stand out, attracting serious interest. Attention to detail, from ensuring light fixtures are dust-free and in working order to updating old fixtures, can create an impression of quality and care.

winter staging in kitchen with wreath hanging

Maximizing Your Home’s Winter Appeal with Staging

In a competitive market, every detail in staging your home counts. Therefore, by embracing the unique aspects of winter and presenting your home as a warm and welcoming space, you can captivate potential buyers. Contact us today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com to learn more about maximizing your home’s value, selling your property, and leveraging expert staging techniques for success. Let us guide you in navigating the winter real estate market with confidence.

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8737 Boxelder Ln., Inviting Colonial Home in Dexter!

8737 Boxelder Ln., Dexter, MI 48130

New Listing! Welcome to this inviting colonial home in the highly-sought-after Thornton Farms neighborhood in Dexter. Features include:

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  • One of the largest footprints in the community with 2,642 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, and 2.1 bathrooms.
  • Roomy formal dining space fit for larger holiday gatherings.
  • Eat-in kitchen boasts contemporary oak cabinetry with sleek granite coutnertops, stainless steel appliances, glass tiled backsplash, walk-in pantry, and center island.
  • Breakfast area offers sliders leading to outdoor patio.
  • Cozy living room with gas fireplace.
  • Primary suite complete with walk-in closet, convenient storage system, and ensuite bath.
  • 3 additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a fabulous loft area currently used as a library.
  • Private fenced-in backyard.
  • Recent upgrades include new hardwood flooring in the upstairs bedrooms, freshly painted walls, and doors, and new blinds throughout the home.
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $425,000

To request a private showing or more information for 8737 Boxelder Ln., contact the Dexter home specialists with The Bouma Group at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com. View photos and features of the Thornton Farms neighborhood here!

Ann Arbor Real Estate Market Update for November 2023

The Ann Arbor Real Estate Market is Looking Up for Home Buyers

As we enter the holiday season, the Ann Arbor Real Estate market is starting to look more promising for buyers. The main trends we’re seeing are:

  • Interest rates are slowly decreasing
  • Home and condo inventory is starting to increase
  • The list-to-sell ratio is leveling

What does this mean for buyers and sellers and what are the predictions for the 2024 market?
Get all of the details and stats in today’s video!

For a more in-depth analysis of your particular neighborhood, complex, school district, city, or area, give us a call today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com. We love to talk about real estate and give our clients the service and attention they deserve!

3737 Bradford Square Dr., Custom Cedar Home in Ann Arbor

3737 Bradford Square Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 41803

New Listing! Enjoy ultimate privacy and solitude at this stunning custom cedar home located in the desirable Scio Hills neighborhood.

  • Energy efficient home surrounded by lush verdant views filled with mature evergreen and fruit-bearing trees.
  • Cathedral ceilings, hardwood flooring, and floor-to-ceiling Pella casement windows bathing every room in natural light.
  • Large eat-in kitchen boasts granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and walk-in pantry.
  • Inviting brick fireplaces in both the living and family rooms.
  • Primary suite offers a sitting area, cathedral ceiling, private balcony, dual walk-in closets, and attached ensuite bath.
  • Finished lower level is a versatile space and includes 2 Tesla Powerwalls.
  • Expanisve 2-tier, shaded deck off the kitchen.
  • Oversized 3-car garage with workshop.
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $719,000

To request a private showing or more information for 3737 Bradford Square Dr., contact the Ann Arbor specialists with The Bouma Group today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com. View photos and features for the Scio Hills subdivision here!

Seize the Season: Opportunities in Holiday Home Buying

Key Takeaways:

  • Reduced Competition: The holiday season sees fewer active buyers, giving you a distinct advantage in terms of choice and negotiation power.
  • Motivated Sellers: People listing their homes during the holidays are often keen to close quickly, offering you leverage for better deals and terms.
  • Seasonal Goodwill: The holiday spirit often leads to smoother negotiations and a more enjoyable home-buying experience, benefiting both buyers and sellers.

The holiday season is just a few weeks away, and while your thoughts may be on gifts and gatherings, don’t overlook the prime homebuying opportunities that this season offers. Here’s a sneak peek into why buying a home during the holidays could be the smartest move you make all year.

Searching for a home during the holidays

Limited Competition

Pro: During the holiday season, many prospective buyers are busy with celebrations and travel, giving you less competition and a greater selection of homes.

Opportunity: With fewer buyers on the hunt, you have a better chance to negotiate favorable terms, prices, and even added perks like included upgrades or closing cost assistance.

man moving homes during the holidays

Sellers Eager to Close

Pro: Homeowners who list during the holiday season typically have a compelling reason to sell quickly, be it for tax advantages or an upcoming move.

Opportunity: A seemingly fast-paced timeline actually benefits you. Motivated sellers are more willing to negotiate terms and prices, making for a win-win scenario.

 

 

 

 

What About Mortgage Rates?

Pro: Many financial institutions typically offer special mortgage rates leading up to the holidays to stimulate what’s generally considered a slower business period.

Opportunity: Though you might fear delays due to the holidays, the reality is that fewer loan applications usually result in quicker approvals and a smoother transaction.

happy family during thanksgiving

Seasonal Goodwill

Pro: The holiday season tends to bring out the spirit of goodwill and generosity, which can positively influence real estate transactions.

Opportunity: This festive atmosphere often leads to smoother negotiations, a quicker process, and a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

family giving hanukkah gift

Unwrap the Gift of Homeownership This Holiday Season

The holidays will be here before you know it, and with them comes a unique set of circumstances that make this season an ideal time for home buying. From the reduced competition to the availability of motivated sellers and mortgage rates, the stage is set for you to make a highly advantageous move.

Ready to seize the opportunity? Contact our team of Ann Arbor Real Estate experts today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com to learn more about how to capitalize on the unique benefits of holiday home buying, or to commence your home search. We know the uniqueness of this market better than anyone!

Don’t let the holiday bustle distract you from this golden opportunity. Start your new year in a new home—it’s the gift that keeps on giving.

210 Elm St., Charming Ypsilanti Bungalow

210 Elm St., Ypsilanti, MI 48197

New Listing! Welcome home to this charming bungalow in the heart of the sought-after Normal Park neighborhood in Ypsilanti. Features include:

  • 1,452 sq. ft., 3 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom home.
  • Cozy living room, complete with a natural wood-burning fireplace and classic brick surround.
  • The eat-in kitchen offers plenty of room, newer cabinets and counters, farm-style sink, subway tile, and stainless steel appliances.
  • A formal dining room with built-ins provides the perfect space for entertaining.
  • The main floor bedroom can easily double as an office.
  • Upstairs, find the spacious primary bedroom with the potential for an attached walk-in closet, nursery or exercise space.
  • Deep backyard and detached garage comes with a bonus storage loft.
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $340,000

To request a private showing or more information for 210 Elm St., contact the Ypsilanti home specialists with The Bouma Group today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com. View photos and features for the Normal Park neighborhood here!

2798 Colony Rd., Impeccably Maintained Ann Arbor Home Stunner

2798 Colony Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48104

New Listing! Fall in love with this impeccably maintained Ann Arbor Woods stunner with quality workmanship from every corner. Features include:

  • 5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home with custom-designer Arts & Crafts interior.
  • Gorgeous slate entry with oak hardwood flooring and trim throughout.
  • Formal living, dining, and family rooms on main level.
  • Formal living boasts a stunning Pewabig tiled fireplace, flanked by charming built-ins.
  • Eat-in kitchen impresses with granite counters, tiled backsplash, oak cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances.
  • Primary suite offers a sitting room, custom walk-in closet, and ensuite bath with a dual sink vanity, soaking tub, and separate tiled shower.
  • Finished, heated basement.
  • Outside paver patio with seating walls, custom fountain, and backs to Mallet Creek Park.
  • Additional features included a full house generator, custom California closets, laundry chute, and tiled front porch.
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $650,000

To request a private showing or more information for 2798 Colony Rd., contact the Ann Arbor specialists with The Bouma Group today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com. View photos and features of the Ann Arbor Woods community here!

805 Kewanee St., Picturesque Quad-Style Ypsilanti Home

805 Kewanee St., Ypsilanti, MI, 48197

New Listing! Welcome to this highly desirable College Heights quad-style home nestled in a gorgeous, picturesque setting.

  • Over 2,680 sq. ft. of living space with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms.
  • Upon entry, you are greeted by the formal dining and expansive living room with gas fireplace and built-in bookshelves.
  • Fully remodeled eat-in kitchen boasting white shaker cabinetry, Corian counters, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, and overlooks the gorgeous backyard.
  • Find the primary suite on the upper level complete with an ensuite bath and walk-in closet
  • 4 seasons room on the lower level featuring a second fireplace and lovely backyard view.
  • Tranquil outdoor oasis with gunite inground pool, shed with electricity, and paver patio beneath a canopy of mature trees.
  • Tons of storage and near shopping, restaurants, Eastern Michigan University and highways.
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $450,000

To request a private showing or more information for 805 Kewanee St., contact the Ypsilanti neighborhood specialists with The Bouma Group today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com. View photos and features of the College Heights neighborhood here!

Relocating? Areas We Service in Washtenaw County and Beyond

Relocating can be stressful and overwhelming and The Bouma Group is here to make your transition into Washtenaw County and the Ann Arbor area as smooth as possible. We provide personalized assistance to ensure that your relocation needs are met. Our team has in-depth expertise on the sales and marketing side of buying and selling real estate in the Ann Arbor area, creating a well-rounded approach to help you identify the best possible home for your needs. Here are the areas we service in greater Washtenaw County.

Washtenaw County & Areas We Service

Areas We Service

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1212 Washtenaw Ave., Renovated Ypsilanti Classic Colonial

1212 Washtenaw Ave., Ypsilanti, MI 48197

New Listing! Welcome to this classic colonial home in the desirable College Heights neighborhood that has been meticulously redone from top to bottom.

  • Spacious room complete with gas brick fireplaces.
  • Easy-car LVP flooring spans the entire home providing a seamless and stylish look.
  • Gallery-style kitchen boasts white shaker cabinets adorned with crown molding, quartz counters, and stainless steel appliances.
  • The attached dining room provides ample space for hosting memorable dinners.
  • The home is bathed in natural light streaming through all brand-new windows.
  • Find all 3 bedrooms and refinished full bath with shower/tub combo upstairs.
  • An expansive deck outside wraps around the side of the house and is perfect for entertaining.
  • Fully finished, walkout, daylight basement with half bath offers a great family/recreation room.
  • 2 car detached garage.
  • Close proximity to Eastern Michigan University, shopping, and restaurants.
  • More photos and features
  • Listed for $299,000

To request a private showing or more information for 1212 Washtenaw Ave., contact the Ypsilanti specialists with The Bouma Group today at 724-761-3060 or info@bouma.com. View photos and features for the sought-after College Heights neighborhood here!