Deck the halls with style: Holiday staging tips to showcase your listing’s best features

The holiday season can be the perfect opportunity to make a home feel warm and inviting to potential buyers. However, staging a home for the holidays requires careful consideration. Too much décor or overly personalized touches can take away from the home’s appeal.

Here are some decorating tips to pass along to your clients to ensure that subtle holiday charm enhances their listing and appeals to a wide range of buyers:

Keep decorations simple and elegant

When it comes to holiday décor in a listed property, less is more. A clean, cohesive aesthetic will highlight the home’s features while adding seasonal warmth. Understated touches like a wreath on the front door, a neutral garland on the mantel, or a bowl of pinecones on the dining table can add a subtle festive touch. Sticking to a colour palette of whites, golds, silvers or soft greens creates a timeless look that feels festive without being overwhelming.

For larger spaces, consider a small, tastefully decorated tree. Position it to complement the flow of the room, placing it near a window to highlight natural light or beside a fireplace to create a cozy atmosphere.

Let the home shine first

Holiday staging should enhance, not overshadow, a home’s best features. Instead of filling every nook with seasonal items, strategically place decorations to draw attention to standout elements.

Here are some examples:

• Use garland to accentuate a beautiful staircase.

• Add a centerpiece to highlight an elegant dining table.

• Place subtle lighting around a fireplace to make it the room’s focal point.

These touches make the space feel inviting while ensuring buyers still focus on the property itself.

Steer clear of over-personalization

Holiday décor that reflects the homeowner’s personal traditions, like family photos, heirloom ornaments, or religious symbols, may limit buyers’ ability to envision themselves in the space. It’s best to keep decorations neutral and universally appealing. Opt for classic seasonal elements like evergreen garlands, string lights or decorative lanterns. Removing personal items also reduces visual clutter, ensuring the home feels open and welcoming.

Enhance the home’s curb appeal

First impressions matter, and outdoor holiday décor is a chance to wow potential buyers. A simple wreath on the front door, soft string lights outlining windows, or a welcoming doormat can make a big difference. Keep outdoor displays tasteful and minimal to avoid overwhelming the home’s exterior. And don’t forget – clean, snow-free pathways are essential to maintaining both safety and visual appeal.

Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere

Holiday staging isn’t just about visuals; it’s also about creating a feeling. Subtle scents like cinnamon, pine or freshly baked cookies can make a home feel comforting, but be mindful to avoid anything too overpowering. Inside, consider using soft textures like throw blankets, plush rugs and accent pillows to make spaces feel warm and welcoming.

Lighting is another factor to consider. Replace harsh overhead lights with softer, warm-toned bulbs or add string lights for a touch of magic. If the home has a fireplace, stage it as the centerpiece of the living room with decorative logs or even a glowing fire.

Maintain clean and spacious rooms

While holiday decorations can add charm, they can also make rooms feel smaller if not carefully curated. Start with a decluttered space before adding seasonal elements. Store away personal items, clear countertops, and ensure walkways are open and functional. When adding decorations, choose a few impactful pieces rather than crowding the space with multiple items.

For larger holiday pieces, such as Christmas trees, scale is important. A smaller tree is often better suited for staging, as it highlights the space without making the room feel cramped.

Prioritize safety and practicality

Safety is often overlooked during holiday staging. Open houses or showings mean frequent foot traffic, so avoid tripping hazards like loose cords or delicate ornaments. Battery-operated candles and LED lights are excellent alternatives to traditional candles, offering ambiance without risk.

Snow and ice are other seasonal considerations. Make sure driveways and walkways are clear for buyers’ safety and convenience. Adding a simple winter welcome mat at the entrance can help manage wet shoes and maintain a tidy appearance.

Holiday staging is all about balance. By keeping décor tasteful and neutral, enhancing the home’s features, and creating a cozy atmosphere, you can make a listing stand out throughout the winter market. Thoughtful seasonal touches invite buyers to imagine themselves spending their own holidays in the home, which is the ultimate goal.