Classified Selling Ideas

Real estate in the cool months is heating up. "For those who hold prime properties, any time of the year is the right time to sell—including the dark winter months," says Joan McLellan Tayler, a real estate author and former realty company owner. While it is tempting for many to postpone listing their house until spring, the costs of upkeep are often not worth holding off. With the right ideas and proper technique, winter can be a niche time to capture buyers. This means more sales and ad opportunities for your publication.

December is also a great time to spruce up the house if it’s going on the market soon—readers can sell off unnecessary home possessions before the hustle and bustle of the holidays hits. For buyers, your publication’s listings can make great Christmas gifts. Have you considered running a special classifieds promotion for winter real estate and/or household items?

Ad/Promotion Ideas:
• In your real estate section, feature sponsored strategies and information on selling a home during the winter. Business ads can be interspersed where relevant.
• Feature special categories in your listings for items that home buyers or sellers would be interested in. Tools, woodwork, decorations, furniture, etc.
• Mix in real estate and home classifieds with retail news where relevant to draw readers to the classifieds.
• Try a special section targeting home owners/buyers in the upcoming months. Include classifieds for real estate and for household items.

Share your experiences!
Have you tried running a winter real estate promotion? Was it successful? Post your experiences as a comment and let’s increase ad sales together.