5 Tips for Selling the Cottage

Wondering about selling the cottage? As difficult of a choice as it may seem, sometimes it’s the best decision to make. And, with more buyers moving from the GTA to cottage country, there’s a demand for three-season cottages and year-round getaways. Whatever the case may be for your family, consider these tips to get your cottage ready to list. When you’re ready to sell or if you have any questions about the process, reach out any time. Our team of Southern Georgian Bay experts is available to provide accurate information. We even have cottage specialists who would be happy to chat. Let’s get to it -- keep reading to discover 6 tips for selling the cottage. 

1. Make the Exterior Shine

Let’s start with the outside. Right when a potential buyer arrives, the first thing that they see is the exterior of your cottage and all that the property offers. Make a lasting impression by cleaning up the grounds. Removing any fallen branches, dead trees and raking up last year’s leaves are good tasks to tackle first. It’s also best to make any exterior repairs to the cottage, wash the windows and repaint the front door if needed. 

2. Freshen up the Landscaping

Once the larger jobs are finished, it’s time to enhance the property’s natural beauty. Consider laying fresh grass seed, planting bright, colourful flowers in the flowerbeds and adding planters around the front door to invite potential buyers in. For some cottage buyers, taking in the natural beauty of the property may even be enough to sell them before heading inside! If your cottage is on the water, it’s ideal to freshen up the shoreline by removing any debris that has accumulated over the winter.

3. Get the Garage in Tip Top Shape

Time to organize the tools! Does your cottage have a garage or shed? Take a peek inside and give the garage some love. Organize your belongings and make as much floor space available as possible. This way, buyers can envision their belongings in the space. If you no longer need some of the tools, it’s the perfect time to find a new home for them. Consider selling them on Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace or donating them to a nearby charity. 

4. Clear Out Personal Items

Start packing up your belongings. When you know it’s time to sell, it’s a good idea to make a plan for moving out your belongings. We recommend packing up photos and sentimental items to create a neutral space. By creating a neutral space, potential buyers can picture themselves spending time at the cottage.

5. Show Off the View

Let the view sell itself. Open all window coverings and let buyers take in all that the view has to offer. Whether your cottage is on the water or just a short distance away, the feeling of cottage country is one that buyers are sure to fall in love with. Not only will the view be enjoyed in person, but it’ll also be seen by those looking online at photos and videos. With online exposure becoming increasingly important, it’s best to keep the window coverings open for photos, too.

6. Work with a Local Real Estate Agent

Local experience matters. Real estate agents who live and work in cottage country are likely to know the local market best. Not only do they know the area inside and out, but they’re also just a short drive away should they need to be available for a last minute showing or an urgent visit. Cottage country experts take pride in helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals. We’re lucky enough to have a few on our team – meet them here. 

When you’re ready to sell, we’d be happy to partner with you and walk you through the process. Even if you’re just curious about where the market is headed, reach out to chat with a professional. Click here to get started.