How to Handle Snow and Ice During Winter Open Houses

Winter can be a challenging season for sellers hosting open houses. While snow-dusted streets and cozy interiors can be charming to a property, snow and ice hazards can quickly turn a winter open house into a logistical challenge. Creating a safe, welcoming environment during winter open houses is essential for buyers and sellers alike. There are practical strategies to keep in mind to handle snow and ice while hosting open houses, ensuring safety, accessibility, and appeal throughout the colder months.

Why Winter Open Houses Require Special Attention

Winter weather presents unique challenges for hosting open houses. Slick driveways, icy stairs, and cold interiors can deter potential buyers or even cause accidents. Proactively addressing these issues demonstrates professionalism and creates a positive first impression. The goal is to showcase the property and make buyers feel comfortable and secure despite the winter elements.

Preparation Before the Open House

1. Ask your Seller if They Have Prepared the Home for Winter

Their efforts will keep out the cold and keep the home running efficiently throughout the selling process.

2. Monitor Weather Conditions

Keep a close eye on the weather forecast in the days leading up to the event. Snowstorms or sudden temperature drops can complicate plans. Stay in touch with your real estate agent about potential weather-related changes and plan to have backup dates or flexible schedules.

3. Snow Removal and De-Icing

Ensure all outdoor areas are cleared of snow and ice well before the open house begins. Key areas to focus on include:

• Driveways and Walkways: These should be thoroughly shovelled and treated with salt or sand to prevent slipping.
• Stairs and Entryways: Use de-icer and ensure that railings are sturdy and snow-free.
• Parking Areas: If there’s a designated parking space, ensure it’s plowed and accessible.

Hire professional snow removal providers, especially for properties with large outdoor areas or steep driveways.

4. Create a Warm Welcome

Walking into a warm, inviting space from the cold is a great way to create an emotional connection with potential buyers during the open house. Check that the heating system is properly functioning and set the thermostat to a comfortable level. Turn on the fireplace if you have one for a cozy ambience.

Other ways to make the property feel inviting during a winter open house include:

• Offering a coat rack or designated area for boots and shoes.
• Laying down absorbent mats to prevent wet floors.
• Placing throw blankets and warm lighting in key areas to enhance coziness.

5. Provide Safety Signage During the Open House

Clear signage can help guide visitors safely through the property. For instance, signs should mark icy patches, direct foot traffic away from hazardous areas, or highlight alternate entrances if needed.

6. Stock Up on Supplies

Keep extra winter supplies on hand, such as:

• Ice melt or salt for touch-ups.
• Shovels for clearing sudden snow accumulation during the open house.
• Towels or mats to clean up slush from inside entryways.

Day-of Strategies for Managing Snow and Ice

1. Prepare Early

Prepare well before the open house, which allows time to address last-minute weather-related issues. Walk through the property’s exterior and interior with the real estate agent to ensure all safety measures are in place and everything is clean and dry.

2. Greet Visitors with Clear Instructions

As visitors arrive to your winter open house, politely guide them on how to navigate the property safely. For instance:

• Point out where they can park without getting stuck in the snow.
• Indicate where to leave wet footwear.
• Mention any areas to avoid due to snow or ice.

3. Keep Entryways Clean and Dry

Continuously monitor the entrance area during the event. Wet floors can become slippery and dangerous. Use heavy-duty mats and towels to absorb water, and mop up frequently to keep the space safe.

4. Offer Winter Comforts

Small touches can make a big difference at winter open houses. Provide warm beverages like coffee, tea, or hot cocoa to help visitors feel at ease. Doing so combats the cold and encourages buyers to linger longer and thoroughly explore the property.

5. Stay Vigilant

Throughout the open house, periodically check outdoor pathways, parking areas, and entry points to ensure they remain clear of snow and ice. Unexpected snowfall or temperature changes can create new hazards.

Prepare the Yard for Exploration During the Open House

By carefully preparing the yard and other outdoor spaces, you can help buyers navigate the outside of the property safely and see its full potential, even in the heart of winter. Here’s how to get your yard ready for an open house:

1. Create a Clear and Safe Path to the Backyard

Shovel and de-ice all walkways of the home from the front to the back of the house. If the garage sits at the back of the property, ensure a safe and well-marked path leads to it. Use sand or salt to reduce the risk of slipping and falling.

2. Declutter Outdoor Spaces

Move outdoor items like barbecues, covered patio furniture, or yard maintenance tools away from walking paths. Doing so will ensure no one accidentally bumps into them when exploring the yard, back garage, or storage sheds.

3. Clear Snow from Decks and Patios

Remove snow from decks, patios, and outdoor stairs before the open house. Highlighting the size and condition of the deck or patio allows buyers to envision how they might use the area for entertaining or relaxing when the weather warms or warn them if wooden structures need replacing.

4. Keep Windows Clear

Snow and frost on windows can obstruct views and make the property feel unkempt. Ensure windows are clean and free of condensation to let in as much natural light as possible and allow buyers to appreciate the surroundings fully during the open house.

Safety First: Mitigating Liability Risks

Safety is paramount during winter open houses—not just for visitors but also to protect yourself from liability issues.

1. Secure Insurance Coverage

Verify that your insurance covers potential accidents during the event. Consider obtaining additional liability coverage if needed.

2. Document Preparations

Keep a record of all safety precautions taken, such as shoveling walkways, applying salt, and setting up safety signs. This documentation can be valuable in case of any incidents during the open house.

3. Stay Accessible

Provide your contact information to address any immediate concerns or emergencies.

Virtual Options for Winter Open Houses

Given the unpredictability of winter weather, offering virtual open house options can be a smart alternative or supplement. Virtual tours allow buyers to explore the property from home while avoiding travel risks. Platforms like Zoom or Matterport make it easy to host interactive virtual showings.

Post-Event Follow-Up

After the open house, follow up with attendees promptly. Thank them for braving the weather and express your willingness to address any questions they may have.

Winter can be a lucrative time for selling your home, and handling snow and ice during open houses requires extra effort. Still, ensuring the event is safe, successful, and inviting is well worth it. By preparing ahead and maintaining a safe environment, you can create an open house experience that stands out—even in the coldest months. With thoughtful planning and attention to detail, winter open houses can be just as effective as those held during warmer seasons.

If you’re ready to sell your home, reach out to one of our experienced, local REALTORS® for a free home valuation as well as tips on selling your home, moving, and strategies for energy savings in your new home during the winter months.

If you’re looking to attend an open house, view our list of upcoming open houses here.