Staging your home for Holiday buyers

Photo by Austin

Yes, it’s true, not all listings go dead in winter. In fact, I tend to ramp up during the season and while everyone is sleepily getting ready for the new year, I encourage those who want to buy with less competition and with more motivation, to buy during the winter months. I love the idea of a new home for the holidays!

If you want to sell during the holidays, then play into it. Buyers at this time are looking for homes that feel cozy and comfortable.You definitely don’t want to stage like Santa puked Christmas all over your house. The key is balance mixed with warmth. Here are a few suggestions:

Minimal is Best

• Pick a small tree that doesn’t take up a lot of room and decorate it minimally. You want to create the holiday spirit, but not so that it is distracting to the rest of the home.

• Choose cohesive themes: use colors like creams, greens, winter blues, and play into the colors of your home rather than clashing with them

• Don’t overcrowd your dining table. Choose an elegant runner and a small holiday/wintry centerpiece.

• Decorate mantles and shelves with hints of greenery or holiday decor

• Don’t mess with the flow of the home by obstructing walkways

Scents, Sounds, and the Feel of the Holidays

• If you have an open house and a fireplace that works, light ‘em up! Who doesn’t love a lite fireplace. Choose vanilla logs for added flair

• Lighting should be soft around the home, replace those bright bulbs

• Light some cookie scented candles before showings

• Stick to cedar, pine, and subtle vanilla scents throughout the house

• Replace bedding with soft blankets

• Have a bluetooth speaker set up in the living room that is playing holiday music softly

Curb Appeal

• Add a wreath to the door

• Put candles in the window to illuminate at night

• Avoid putting too much clutter in the yard, aka gigantic air filled characters or anything that would warrant a stop on the Tacky Light Tour

In summary, you want to create a warm and calm atmosphere with just enough inspiration that will give potential buyers a picture of what their holidays in the house will feel like. Even if your listing is vacant, consider staging a little by adding some warm holiday cheer. Your property will stand out and sell quicker.

If you are looking to sell during the holidays, I have just the elves to put the spirit in your listing.