Do’s and Don’ts When Trying to Sell a House During the Holidays

Do’s and Don’ts When Trying to Sell a House During the Holidays

The holiday season is lurking around the corner and if you have your house on the market you probably have some unanswered questions about how to move forward.  Historically speaking, there are fewer buyers actively looking at homes online between Thanksgiving and Christmas.  And regardless of your personal religious convictions, chances are you will be busier than usual for the next few months.  So what does this mean for the sale of your house?  Should you take your home off the market?  Should you put your holiday decorations on display?  Here are some tips to help you successfully sell your home during the holidays:

DO…

Keep Your House on the Market

Don’t let statistical data discourage you.  Although it’s true that there are fewer active buyers during the holidays, there ARE still buyers in the market.  In fact, those who are looking at houses during this slow time are generally more motivated to buy.  They too are busy during the holiday season and if they have chosen to remain active in the market, it probably means they are a serious buyer.  If you take your home off the market you may miss out on a great opportunity.

Pay Special Attention to Lighting

Lighting is always a crucial component when showing your home, but it takes on extra importance during the holidays.  Days are typically shorter during the fall and winter months.  This means there is a much higher likelihood that it will be dark when they buyers are viewing your home for sale.  Make sure to have ample outdoor lighting that illuminates your house.  And of course, have all the interior lights turned on; a light and bright atmosphere is important.

Use the Fireplace

If your home has a fireplace, you should utilize it when showing your home.  A rolling fire emits warmth and coziness that helps to make your property feel like “home.” 

DON’T…

Overdo the Decorations

Regardless of the season, “less is more” when it comes to home décor.  And while most agents agree that putting out some holiday decorations is acceptable, you should still use this mantra.  Neatly strung holiday lights can be attractive and festive, but keep those giant inflatable characters in their box.  If you have a Christmas tree, don’t let it control a room.  Stick to subtle decorations and don’t ever allow your holiday trimmings to cover up the selling features of your property; items such as windows, stairwells, and fireplaces.  Don’t block walkways with holiday clutter.  You do not want to distract your potential buyers with excessive decorations.  Remember, they should only add to the beauty of your place.

Forget to Use Your Senses

Engage your buyer’s sense of smell by filling your home that you have for sale with the scents of the season.  It is as simple as warming some cider on the oven, baking some fresh cookies, or burning a subtle candle.  And don’t forget to complete the experience with soft seasonal music playing in the background.

Having a home for sale during the holidays can be tough.  Just remember that by keeping your home on the market, you are seizing an opportunity to target very serious buyers precisely when many of your competitors are removing their listings from the market.