Selling your home over the holidays doesn’t need to turn you into Mr. Scrooge. In fact, the holiday season can be a wonderful time to sell. Holiday decorating makes a home feel cozy and can create a welcoming vibe that buyers will love. That is, as long as you don’t go full-on Clark Griswold. If you’re planning to sell your home over the holidays, then follow these staging tips.
Clean and declutter
We always recommend that you clean and declutter your home before staging no matter the season. Removing unwanted items will make your home feel more spacious. And taking out personal items like family photos is a must. Create a neutral environment where buyers can imagine themselves living. Once you’ve decluttered, clean your home until it’s sparkling.
Create a welcoming entrance
The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers will see. Create a welcoming entrance that will make buyers want to see more. You can add a bit of holiday festivity to your front door with a pretty wreath. Evergreen arrangements flanking the door are also a nice touch. Opt for holiday elements that have a winter theme as opposed to items with a religious theme, as these might not appeal to all buyers.
Dress up your mantel
Are you lucky enough to have a fireplace mantel in your home? Then you’ll definitely want to make this a focal point. You don’t have to go overboard here. A simple evergreen garland with a few candles or ornaments can make your fireplace pop. You can also hang stockings to really set the holiday mood.
Put up a tree
Some people may be on the fence about putting up a tree when they’re selling during the holidays. But as long as your tree is tasteful and is the right size for the room, it can really make your home feel cozy. Opt for tree decorations that match the style of your room, and avoid lights that blink.
Stage your dining room table
Want a tip that will really entice your buyers? Then set your dining room table for a holiday feast. Show buyers how wonderful it will be to host holiday parties in your home by busting out your best formal tableware.
Add poinsettias
Nothing says “holiday spirit” quite like poinsettias do. If you do nothing else then place a few poinsettias around your home, you will still create a wonderful holiday vibe. Choose poinsettias in colors that match your decor or opt for the bright red variety that really pops. Best of all, poinsettias are available everywhere this time of year and are very affordable.
Use lights tastefully
We don’t think you should decorate the outside of your home like the Griswolds, but you can add some tasteful holiday lights to your home’s exterior. Simple white or multi-color strand lights in a favorite tree or around the windows can make your home look especially cheerful this time of year. If your neighbors decorate their homes too, then that’s even better. Remember to turn on the outside lights if you are showing your home after dark.
