Home staging is about optimally designing a space so potential buyers can visualize themselves in that house. It’s the best way to showcase the highlights of the home and establish that personal connection buyers need to want to put down an offer. Now that we’re at the height of the holidays, it’s time for many to pull out the holiday decorations and fully immerse themselves in the proper spirit. Selling your home? What if we told you that you could also participate in the festivities and use them to your advantage? That’s right. The holiday season is a special time when home sellers can stage their homes and have the opportunity to create an ideal atmosphere full of welcome and warmth.

Here are a few holiday details you can include that will make the ultimate difference.

The Front Door

Setting up holiday decorations at the front door sets the tone for the rest of the home. A classic wreath or a simple “Happy Holidays” sign adds color, personality, and, most importantly, curb appeal. You can even add a themed doormat or red ribbon to accent the front of the home. These decorative accents photograph well and make great first impressions.

Stay Simple

Don’t forget the essential staging rule when preparing decorations: less is more. Don’t get too wrapped up in decorating that you take away from emphasizing a home’s best qualities and turn into more of a distraction. Staging is all about taking a space and helping buyers see a property’s potential. Continue with the neutral aesthetic of a home that can appeal to everyone. For example, try single strands of lights on the exterior, a green wreath with a single red ribbon on the door, and a Christmas tree with monochromatic ornaments to avoid overshadowing the space.

Extra Tip: Avoid personal holiday decor like personalized stockings, family Christmas cards, or homemade ornaments. This can create clutter and disconnection.

Decorating is fun, but don’t forget about the normal staging process. Deep clean and declutter your space. Even the best design touches can’t cover up messy and unorganized rooms. Stagers see decor as an additional touch-up, not the main event.

Factor in Other Senses

Even in times not during the holiday season, stagers and agents have loved to appeal to the sense of smell as a classic marketing technique. Whether baking cookies or spraying a scented room spray, pleasant smells can trigger positive memories, a fact emphasized during the holidays. People have particular smells they associate with this time of year, and it’s wise to incorporate them into your home. Scents like pine, vanilla, and cinnamon are subtle without being too overwhelming. Don’t go too overboard because these smells can be strong and overpowering. A modest aroma will do enough to accentuate that homely feel.

BUT REMEMBER, if your listing photos get taken with holiday decorations, it can age the listing if it’s on the market for more than a few weeks. You will want to set up additional listing photos after the holidays to keep your listing fresh for those searching. 

For further tips on the best staging strategy for your home, contact one of our agents through our website or on the phone at 210-801-9115. They have the experience to give you the proper guidance and can even connect you with some of our top stagers to get the job done.

Happy Holidays from your LRG Team!