Selling in Barrie this winter and dreading showings in the snow? You are not alone. Short days, icy walkways, and parking rules can make even simple visits feel complicated. This guide shows you how to keep access safe, your home inviting, and your schedule calm so you can focus on results, not stress. Let’s dive in.
Why winter showings in Barrie are different
Barrie sits in a lake‑effect snowbelt, and the city notes frequent lake‑effect snow and ongoing removal operations. With shorter daylight from late fall to early spring, curb appeal and access need extra attention.
The City runs a winter maintenance program and Plow Tracker, but it does not clear the windrows left at your driveway. That is on the property owner, which matters when buyers arrive after a plow pass.
Barrie also enforces overnight parking restrictions and Winter Maintenance Events from December 1 to March 31. Give visitors clear parking guidance to avoid tickets or towing.
Seasonally, local data from BDAR monthly market stats show winter brings fewer listings than spring. That can mean less competition. A well‑presented home can stand out.
Make access safe and simple
Clear paths and windrows
Keep the driveway, front steps, and a wide walkway cleared and treated. Revisit after plows pass so windrows do not block access. The city states residents are responsible for driveway windrows. Store salt and a shovel near the entry and consider a contractor for storm days.
Light the way
Use bright porch lighting and path lights on timers. Good exterior illumination helps evening drive‑bys and late‑day showings feel welcoming and safe.
Create warm first impressions indoors
Set the entry for winter
Place a wide, absorbent doormat, a boot tray, and a small bin for wet gloves or umbrellas. Keep a towel on hand to dry the floor between visits. A tidy entry signals a well‑kept home.
Temperature and lighting
Set the thermostat to a comfortable 20 to 22°C about 30 minutes before showings. Turn on layered, warm lighting and open blinds for natural light. Keep scents neutral and windows clean.
Smooth showing logistics
Smart scheduling and parking
When you can, book showings in daylight, roughly 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. If evening showings are necessary, turn on all exterior and interior lights, and re‑salt the path. Share a quick note on driveway parking to help visitors avoid overnight parking restrictions.
Safety and security
Follow RECO guidance on protecting property during showings. Secure valuables, prescription meds, and personal documents. For open houses and busy days, use check‑in and check‑out routines and finish with a quick exit sweep. NAR offers practical safety tips that are easy to adopt.
Reduce stress with digital tools
High‑quality photos and a 3D tour help buyers qualify themselves before visiting. Industry reports show virtual tours often reduce unnecessary in‑person traffic, which is especially helpful during storms or busy weekends.
Day‑of showing checklist
- Clear and treat the driveway, steps, and a 1.2 to 1.5 m path to the door.
- Turn on all lights, inside and out.
- Set the thermostat to 20 to 22°C and open blinds.
- Place boot tray, fresh mat, and a towel at the entry; secure pets.
- Hide valuables and medications; remove personal mail or IDs from view.
- Confirm parking instructions and any timing notes with the buyer’s agent.
If your property is downtown
Owners or occupants on specified streets must follow the Downtown Snow Clearing By‑law. Sidewalks must be cleared by 10:00 a.m. daily. Plan morning clearing so buyers have safe, legal access and you avoid city enforcement.
Keep momentum between showings
- Shake out mats, swap in a dry towel, and sweep away slush.
- Re‑salt any spots that refreeze.
- Do a quick light and heat check before the next arrival.
A winter listing in Barrie can be calm, safe, and effective with the right plan. If you want a tailored snow and showing strategy, premium visuals, and smart scheduling that respects your time, connect with The JRB Group for a streamlined winter sale.
FAQs
Do I have to shovel before every showing in Barrie winters?
- Ideally yes, for safety and curb appeal. Arrange a contractor or neighbor backup during storms, since the city does not clear driveway windrows.
What should buyers know about Barrie winter parking during showings?
- Barrie restricts on‑street parking overnight from Dec 1 to Mar 31 and may declare Winter Maintenance Events, so guide visitors to driveway or off‑street options.
Is it safe to use the fireplace during showings in winter?
- A lit fireplace can add ambience if it is serviced and supervised; avoid leaving a real fire unattended, and consider gas or electric options for lower risk.
Can virtual tours replace in‑person showings for my Barrie listing?
- Virtual tours help buyers pre‑screen and reduce unnecessary visits, but serious buyers usually still want at least one in‑person showing.
Who is responsible if someone slips on my walkway during a showing?
- Owners are expected to take reasonable steps to keep the property safe. Keep walkways cleared and treated, and document your efforts.
