By Damien Marks — Realtor®, Stonehaus Realty
Selling your home during the holidays can actually be a huge advantage — buyers are motivated, homes feel cozier, and the season adds a natural warmth to your space. But the key is striking the right balance: festive, not overwhelming… inviting, not distracting.
Here’s how to make your home feel amazing during holiday showings, while still showing off its best features and floor plan.
Staging tips video
1. Keep Your Holiday Decorating Simple
A little decorating goes a long way. The goal is to create a warm, seasonal feel without making the home feel crowded or overly themed. Think:
Soft whites, golds, greens
Minimal ornaments
Clean, elegant décor
You want buyers to remember the space, not the decorations.
2. Let Your Home’s Features Shine
Before you decorate, take a moment to look around your home. Does it have gorgeous windows? A great fireplace? Beautiful built-in shelving?
Use those features as the anchor.
If you have a fireplace, add simple garland or a few candles.
If you have big windows, don’t cover them — highlight the natural light.
If your kitchen is the star, keep counters clear and add one subtle holiday touch.
Buyers fall in love with features, not accessories. Decor should support, not overpower.
3. Appeal to the Senses
A home that feels good sticks in buyers’ minds.
Try:
A lightly scented candle (vanilla, pine, “clean linen”)
Soft background music
A tidy, cozy throw blanket
Something freshly baked before showings
The key is subtlety — pleasant, not overpowering. You want buyers to feel relaxed and welcome the moment they walk in.
4. Boost Your Curb Appeal
First impressions are everything, especially in winter. A clean, inviting exterior helps buyers walk through the door with a positive mindset.
Easy wins:
A simple wreath
Seasonal planters
Clear pathways (salt if needed)
Warm-toned outdoor lighting
A tidy front door and entryway
Buyers decide within seconds whether a home “feels right.” Make that moment count.
5. Keep Things Bright and Cheerful
We don’t get long daylight hours this time of year, so lighting becomes extra important. A well-lit home feels bigger, warmer, and more inviting.
Use:
Table lamps
Soft white string lights
Candles
Bright, clean windows
Open blinds and curtains during the day
Avoid harsh lighting — warm lights create a more welcoming vibe.
🍽6. Set the Scene With a Holiday Table
This is your chance to help buyers imagine their life in your home.
A thoughtfully decorated table suggests hosting family dinners, game nights, or holiday celebrations.
Keep it simple:
A clean table setting
Neutral plates or chargers
A tasteful centerpiece
Linen napkins for a polished look
You’re not decorating — you’re creating an emotional connection.
7. Depersonalize and Declutter
I know this one can be tough, especially during the holidays, but it’s incredibly important. Buyers should focus on their future in the home, not your family photos, collections, or personalized décor.
Before showings:
Remove personal photos
Put away kids’ artwork
Store extra jackets and shoes
Clear countertops and surfaces
Keep décor minimal
It opens up the home and helps buyers picture themselves living there.
8. Clean, Clean, Clean — Especially Kitchens & Bathrooms
A home that shows beautifully doesn’t just look good — it feels cared for.
The cleanest homes always make the strongest impressions.
Focus especially on:
Kitchen counters
Appliances
Sinks and faucets
Bathrooms and showers
Mirrors
Floors and baseboards
Entryways
Buyers will absolutely notice the details, and a clean home signals that it’s been well maintained.
Selling This Holiday Season? I’d Love to Help.
If you’re planning a move or considering putting your home on the market over the holidays, I’d be happy to give you personalized staging advice based on your layout, neighbourhood, and goals.
Reach out anytime:
📱 778-984-6166
📧 [email protected]
📍 Serving Coquitlam, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam & Greater Vancouver