Deck the Halls

Staging for Winter Buyers

By Katrina McDowell on Dec 19, 2024 in Marketing, News

The holiday season can be an excellent time for selling property as buyers are more serious and motivated to close by the end of the year. Let’s explore how to strike the right balance with holiday décor so it enhances cozy appeal without distractions.

Keep it minimal

Too much decoration can overwhelm buyers, making it hard for them to envision themselves there. Opt for a simple, elegant theme to avoid overwhelming space. Use a neutral color palette like whites, golds and silvers that complement the interior. Avoid personalized or themed decorations.

Highlight key features

Use decorations to draw attention to the property’s best aspects. For example, frame a fireplace with a simple garland or neutral stockings to emphasize their warmth and charm. Use string lights or wreaths to accentuate large windows or outdoor spaces. Add greenery or lights to a staircase railing for an elegant touch.

Create a cozy atmosphere

Use subtle scents like cinnamon, pine or vanilla to evoke warmth without overpowering the senses. Add cozy touches like warm blankets, a crackling fire or candles for an inviting ambiance. Avoid overly bright fluorescent lighting during the showing. Bonus tip: include soft holiday music for a sensory boost.

Do not overdo outdoor décor Keep yard decorations tasteful—avoid inflatables or overly busy setups. These can distract from the property’s features and may not appeal to all buyers. A classic wreath, well-placed string lights and a tidy entrance with poinsettias can create excellent curb appeal. Ensure walkways and driveways are clear of snow, ice and debris for safety and accessibility.

Avoid decorations that create a cluttered or cramped feeling in rooms

Consider downsizing the tree to fit the space while adding a festive touch. Temporarily remove any furniture or items that could make the space feel crowded. This ensures potential buyers can fully appreciate the property’s features without distractions.

When staging for the holidays, it’s essential to consider diversity

Stick to universally appealing themes rather than holiday-specific religious decorations. For example, use subtle seasonal accents like a bowl of pinecones or holiday greenery with holly berries on the dining table. Faux snow accents and twinkling lights in clear or soft white hues will give a more winter feel. These are themes that a wide range of potential buyers can appreciate.

Maintain the basics

It’s not just about keeping the property clean and decluttered. It’s about providing hope to potential buyers. Freshen up high-traffic areas, keep holiday storage out of sight, and schedule regular cleanings. Store holiday wrapping supplies, extra decorations and personal holiday collections out of sight. Keep kitchens and bathrooms exceptionally tidy and fresh. This attention to detail will reassure potential buyers about the upkeep of the property.

Professional holiday photos for listings

It’s worth investing in high-quality photos showcasing the property’s best features and tasteful holiday décor. Highlight curb appeal with evening shots of well-lit exteriors. This professional presentation will not just showcase your property. It will encourage potential buyers to have confidence in the property’s appeal.

Many individuals are relocating as the year draws closer due to job opportunities. Selling during the holiday season can be advantageous for sellers, as the market is less saturated, reducing competition and potential bidding wars. Also, with year-end tax breaks, buyers can deduct the mortgage interest, property taxes and interest costs if the loan closes before December 31. Win, win!

Happy Selling!