As the golden glow of late summer begins to fade, many homeowners overlook one powerful tool in their arsenal when selling a home: light. Making good use of good light before winter sets in isn’t just poetic-it’s smart strategy. Especially in the picturesque Cotswolds, where changing seasons can dramatically affect how a home is perceived, lighting and timing play a vital role in attracting buyers.
At Harrison Hardie, we understand how important it is to show your property in its best possible light-literally and figuratively. Here’s how to show your home in the best light and present your property at its most appealing.
Timing is Everything: Use Daylight to Your Advantage
The days are getting shorter, which means that scheduling viewings during optimal daylight hours is crucial. Natural light highlights your home’s best features-from original wood floors to charming stone walls. Aim for late morning to early afternoon slots when the sun is high, and the home feels its most inviting.
Now is also the time to have professional photography done. Capturing your property with bright skies, green gardens, and golden-hour warmth will give your listing visual impact long after the seasons change.
Stage With Light in Mind
Before winter dulls the palette, embrace staging strategies that enhance brightness:
- Open curtains and blinds fully to let in as much natural light as possible.
- Clean windows inside and out to eliminate anything that blocks or diffuses light.
- Use mirrors to reflect sunlight and make rooms appear larger and airier.
- Choose warm lighting indoors with LED bulbs that mimic daylight, avoiding harsh or overly cool tones.
These simple touches can make a home feel warmer and more welcoming-something that becomes even more important as temperatures drop.
Maximise Outdoor Appeal Before Autumn Takes Over
Cotswold gardens are a big selling point, and they shine brightest in late summer. Tidy up lawns, trim hedges, and consider adding seasonal flowers for a pop of colour. Take advantage of the “good light” to showcase outdoor areas such as patios, conservatories, or garden rooms while they’re still bathed in sunshine.
Once winter sets in, outdoor photos often look bare or dreary. Now is your opportunity to show your home in its full glory.
Prepare for the Winter Market Early
Even if you’re planning to list in late autumn or winter, gathering marketing materials now ensures your home is shown at its best. At Harrison Hardie, we often recommend capturing professional images in summer or early autumn, then launching at the right time for the market.
Remember: people shop with their eyes. When light is limited, the images you present become even more critical.
Let Your Home Shine
Selling your home is all about making the right impression, and light is one of your greatest allies. By making good use of good light before winter sets in, you can highlight everything that makes your property special.
Need expert guidance on staging, timing, and marketing your Cotswold property? Get in touch with the Harrison Hardie team today. We’ll help you show your home in its best possible light before the days grow short and the market slows.
Contact us to learn more or to book your free property valuation.