The holidays bring twinkling lights, cozy nights, and festive cheer, but if your home is on the market, there’s a fine line between “beautifully decorated” and “buyer distraction.” Luckily, you can absolutely celebrate the season and keep your home show-ready. With a few simple tweaks, your décor can highlight your home’s best features while helping buyers imagine celebrating their own holidays there next year.
Exterior: Curb Appeal Comes First
Your front yard and entryway are the very first impressions buyers get (hello curb appeal!), think of them as your home’s holiday handshake. Keep the look classic and inviting rather than over-the-top. A wreath on the door, warm white lights, or a simple garland can create a timeless, welcoming vibe.
If you love outdoor decorations, lean toward elegant rather than animated. A few well-placed lanterns or topiaries look polished; a 12-foot inflatable snowman might steal the spotlight (and not in a good way). Remember, buyers are imagining their holiday gatherings. Your home should set the stage, not be the main act.
Interior: Cozy, Not Creepy
IInside, you want to showcase warmth and comfort — that “hot cocoa by the fire” feeling that makes buyers instantly relax. Soft throws, subtle seasonal colors, and a lightly scented candle (think pine or vanilla) work wonders.
When decorating, keep surfaces clear and décor proportional to the space. A beautifully trimmed tree is perfect, but skip excessive ornaments or blinking lights. Avoid too many personal touches like family holiday photos or monogrammed stockings as they make it harder for buyers to picture themselves in the space. The goal? Subtle sparkle and a sense of calm.
Temporary Décor: Easy to Tuck Away
For those of us who can’t resist adding a few festive favorites (looking at you, dancing Santa), just make sure they’re easy to pack away before showings. Portable décor like throw pillows, candles, or small figurines are great because you can quickly do a “five-minute sweep” before buyers arrive. Keep a storage tote handy so tidying up feels effortless. Buyers will appreciate seeing a neat, uncluttered space and you’ll still enjoy the magic of the season in between showings.
After the Holidays: Keep It Seasonal
If your home remains on the market into January, it’s easy to transition décor. Simply remove overtly holiday items (like stockings or colored lights) and keep neutral winter elements like evergreen garlands, cozy textures, and soft lighting. This creates a timeless, elegant atmosphere that still feels warm even after the festivities wind down.
Selling Can Still Be a Celebration
Selling your home during the holidays doesn’t mean giving up the fun of decorating. By keeping outdoor décor light and welcoming, interior décor warm and cozy, and having a quick-stow system for anything extra, you’ll strike the perfect balance. Buyers will see your home at its best and you’ll still get to enjoy the festive season.
Anytime between “now” and “right now” is a good time to take action on shaping your best life, and that includes where you live. Let’s get the ball rolling on your next steps.
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