The holiday season can be a magical time, but for real estate agents, property stylists, and homeowners looking to sell, it comes with unique challenges. Buyers are often distracted by events, end-of-year planning, and, of course, celebrations. This is why clever home staging during the Christmas season is pivotal—it sets the stage for buyers by showcasing your property’s full potential while keeping it relatable and appealing to all.
Here are some essential do’s and don’ts for staging real estate during the holiday season.
The Do’s of Staging During Christmas
1. Showcase the Home’s Entertaining Potential
One of the biggest draws during this time of year is the ability to host gatherings. Highlight areas that lend themselves to entertaining. For example:
- Dining Space Appeal: Set the dining table elegantly with simple, neutral holiday elements like candles or white napkins to evoke the idea of holiday dinners without overpowering the space.
- Cozy Living Spaces: Make living rooms feel warm and inviting with neutral-coloured throws, pillows, and perhaps a carefully placed tray with mugs and for hot cocoa on the coffee table.
- Outdoor Spaces: If the property has a patio or backyard, string lights or simple lanterns can create a festive yet subtle vibe. Show buyers it’s a space they’ll want to use year-round.
2. Keep Décor Subtle and Neutral
Holiday décor can add charm, but it mustn’t overshadow the home itself. Keep decorations minimal and neutral so that they work for all buyers—regardless of holiday traditions or beliefs. Stick to natural elements like greenery, pinecones, or candles, and avoid overly bold, specific seasonal pieces that dominate the space.
3. Add Seasonal Scents and Sounds
Appeal to all the buyer’s senses when showing your property. Use seasonal scents like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla sparingly—think a lightly scented candle or a simmering pot of cinnamon and apples. Soft instrumental holiday music can also enhance the experience without overwhelming the showing.
4. Maximize Natural Light
Winter can bring shorter days and darker afternoons, but staging with light in mind can brighten the home. Open curtains to welcome as much daylight as possible and place mirrors strategically to reflect light and make rooms feel larger. Use warm light bulbs in lamps and fixtures to create a cozy glow.
5. Use the Christmas Tree Strategically
If you’re including a Christmas tree, opt for a slim, space-saving option that complements rather than overwhelms the room. Choose neutral or metallic ornaments over personalized or themed decorations to keep it classy and universal. A tree can help buyers envision spending holidays in the home—but it shouldn’t be the only thing they remember about the living room.
The Don’ts of Staging During Christmas
1. Don’t Go Overboard with Decorations
While holiday cheer is important, excessive or overly personal decorations can alienate potential buyers. Avoid anything too bold, like inflatable Santas, multicoloured flashing lights, or religious symbols. Instead, focus on neutral, widely appealing elements that make the buyer feel welcome in the space.
2. Don’t Block Key Features
It’s tempting to fill the home with decorations, but never compromise the property’s main selling points. For example, don’t put a large wreath on a fireplace, as it can hide its charm, or place a bulky Christmas tree where it disrupts the flow of the room. Buyers want to see the home, not just the décor.
3. Don’t Forget the Curb Appeal
Overloading the exterior with holiday décor can be just as distracting as overdoing it indoors. Steer clear of lawn ornaments or excessive lights. Instead, consider a simple wreath on the front door, a potted plant with seasonal greenery, or elegant lighting around the entryway. First impressions matter!
4. Don’t Neglect Decluttering
Clutter can make any space seem smaller and less appealing. This holds true during the holiday season. Ensure that all spaces remain tidy and organized as usual, with just a hint of holiday décor to enhance the home’s charm.
5. Don’t Limit Your Buyer’s Imagination
Your goal when staging is always to appeal to the widest audience possible. Avoid décor or themes that might feel too specific to your personal traditions or leave buyers struggling to imagine themselves in the space. Keep the mood festive yet universally appealing.
That’s a Wrap on Staging During Christmas!
During the Christmas season, real estate staging becomes a balancing act between creating a festive atmosphere and ensuring the home remains the star of the show. When done thoughtfully, a well-staged home during the holidays can demonstrate warmth, functionality, and entertaining potential—all encouraging buyers to envision their own celebrations in the space.
Ready to make your listing irresistible this holiday season? Start by incorporating these tips into your approach—and watch buyers fall in love with their next home.
Experience the Lux Difference
At Lux Furniture Rentals, we don’t believe in sacrificing quality. Lux rental items are selected by designers, for designers. Established by an agent and stager duo, Lux meticulously curates luxurious furniture and decor. Using luxurious high-end furniture allows potential buyers to immerse themselves in your perfectly designed space. Cost cutting and using discounted furniture and decor ensures a room looks inviting, whereas renting from Lux captures buyers minds and turns your staged space into their next home. So, before starting your next staging job, connect with Lux Furniture Rentals and discover the Lux difference.
Happy staging!