Dear Dave,
We have had our home on the market since the beginning of October. Now that the holidays are upon us, we would really like to decorate—but we don’t want to scare away potential buyers. We usually set up a few blow-up decorations in the yard, hang lights on the house, and really go all out inside for our kids. Do you think that’s too much? What do you recommend for sellers during the holiday season?
– Jack and Linda, Fruita, CO
Dear Jack and Linda,
Great question—and one that comes up every year around this time. My honest answer? Yes, you should absolutely decorate and enjoy the holiday season! A home never feels more like home than it does during Thanksgiving and Christmas, and that warm, cozy feeling is actually something buyers love to experience.
Now, that doesn’t mean you have to go full Griswold with a light show synced to music and half a dozen blow-up reindeer dancing in the front yard. When you’re selling your home during the holidays, the key is to keep things festive but tasteful—with an emphasis on highlighting your home’s best features, not covering them up.
Here’s What I Recommend:
- Keep the exterior simple and inviting. White lights, a seasonal wreath, and a touch of greenery on the porch can go a long way. If the yard blow-ups are a tradition your kids love, consider just one or two instead of the full collection. A little holiday cheer is great—just don’t let it overwhelm your curb appeal.
- Stage the interior with warmth and purpose. A nicely decorated tree, stockings hung with care, and a few subtle, seasonal touches can really help buyers feel at home. Just make sure decorations don’t block walkways, windows, or architectural features. Keep things neutral and cozy—let the holiday magic support the showing experience, not distract from it.
- Appeal to the senses. This is one of the best times of year to use scent and sound to your advantage. Cinnamon pinecones, freshly baked cookies, or a simmering pot of cider can work wonders. Add some soft instrumental Christmas music playing in the background during showings and you’ve created a warm, inviting atmosphere that buyers remember.
The truth is, buyers are emotional, and they often make decisions based on how a home feels. If your house feels like the kind of place where special memories are made—especially during the holidays—that could give you a real edge. I’ve seen it happen time and again: the spirit of the season helps buyers imagine their own traditions taking root there.
So go ahead—decorate, enjoy your family, and make your house feel like home. Just aim for balance, keep it tidy, and embrace the season. You might be surprised how far a little Christmas charm can go.
Merry Christmas and best of luck!
– Dave Kimbrough
The Kimbrough Team – RE/MAX 4000
Have a question? Ask Dave!
