The festive time of year brings happiness and joy, but it can also make home staging tricky. Still, with some smart tweaks and careful planning, you can help your home catch the eye of possible buyers even in the year's busiest months. If you're thinking about a festive open house or getting ready for viewings, here's how to set up your home to draw in buyers during the holiday season.

• Make Sure Decorations Look Good and Don't Stand Out Too Much
  Going all out with flashy lights, bright decorations, and personal holiday knick-knacks can take buyers' eyes off what matters - your home's best features. Instead, try for a more low-key, elegant look that makes your property shine. For instance, put a natural garland on the mantel, hang a simple wreath on the front door, and use ornaments in neutral shades. A toned-down holiday theme lets buyers picture their own decorations and traditions in the space.
  
  
• Boost Curb Appeal with Seasonal Elements
  First impressions count, and staging your home's exterior holds as much importance as the interior during the holidays. Think about adding tasteful seasonal elements to improve curb appeal, like a festive wreath, classy lights, and a few potted winter plants. Don't clutter your front yard with too many inflatables or decorations, as these can make the space seem smaller and messy. Instead, try to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages buyers to enter and explore your home.

• Emphasize Warmth and Coziness
  When it's cold outside, house hunters want a warm, welcoming feel. As you set up your home, try to make it cozy. This helps buyers picture themselves enjoying the holidays there. Soft blankets, plump pillows, and a fire in the hearth can set the mood. If you have a fireplace, make sure to show it off. It can be a big plus for buyers in winter. You can also use warm lights to brighten up the house. This matters more in Tulsa, where winter days are short and nights are long. Think about adding candles, lamps, or soft lights to give the space a comfy, relaxed vibe.

• Showcase the Dining and Living Areas
  Holiday events often revolve around get-togethers, so it's crucial to highlight areas like the dining room and living space where buyers might picture themselves entertaining family and friends. Set up your dining room with a basic, classy table arrangement that suggests festive dinners. A focal point of candles, greenery, or neutral-colored decorations can boost the area without going overboard. In the same way, in the living room, set up seating to seem welcoming and good for conversation. 

• Don't Overlook the Kitchen
  The kitchen often serves as the center of holiday celebrations, so ensure it's set up to dazzle. Tidy and clear off counter space, add basic holiday touches like a bowl of seasonal fruit or a small arrangement of winter greenery, and ensure the kitchen looks roomy and practical. If you can, bake some cookies or heat up a pot of cider before showings to create a nice, cozy smell that will stick in buyers' minds.

• Pay Attention to Smell
  While you might want to go overboard with holiday candles and air fresheners, it's better to keep scents mild. A bunch of strong smells can be too much for people looking to buy. Pick natural scents like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla to create a warm holiday feel without making the space smell too strong.
  
  
• Keep It Clean
  During the holidays, homes can get messy with gift wrap, extra decorations, or winter clothes. But it's key to keep the space tidy and clutter-free while your home is up for sale. Make sure to vacuum, dust, and clean surfaces often so your home stays fresh and ready for buyers to view at any time.

Our real estate agents know how to stage homes during the holidays and can show off your property's best features.

If you plan to sell your home this holiday season, we encourage you to check out the Tulsa homes for sale or contact us now to get personalized guidance and help with selling your home. The right staging could turn your home into the perfect holiday gift for a new buyer.