The holidays are here, and you’ve decided to put your house on the market. Now your worried about surviving the holidays when your house is for sale.
While it might seem like an unconventional time to sell, it’s not impossible. With the right approach and a bit of holiday spirit, you can make your property stand out and attract potential buyers. In fact, you may just be able to turn listing during the holiday season into your competitive advantage.
Here are 5 simple tips to help you survive the holidays when your house is for sale.
Keep the Decorations Cozy, Not Overwhelming
It’s tempting to go all out with holiday decorations, but when your house is on the market, less is often more. While a tasteful wreath on the front door and some subtle, warm lighting can create a welcoming atmosphere, try to avoid excessive and extravagant decorations.
A minimalistic approach will allow buyers to see your home’s potential more clearly and envision it as a blank canvas for their own holiday traditions.
Plan Showings Wisely
The holiday season is known for its busy schedule, but that doesn’t mean you have to accommodate every showing request. Work with your real estate agent to create a schedule that allows for convenient showings without disrupting your family’s celebrations.
Consider setting specific viewing hours or blocking off certain days for showings. This way, you can enjoy the festivities without the constant interruption of potential buyers.
Keep Your Home Warm and Inviting
Cold weather outside makes a cozy, warm home even more appealing to buyers. Ensure your home is comfortably heated during showings, so visitors feel at ease and can imagine themselves settling in during the winter months. A well-heated home also conveys that your property is well-maintained and energy-efficient.
Highlight Holiday Features
If your home has unique holiday features, don’t hesitate to show them off. Maybe you have a stunning fireplace perfect for hanging stockings, or a spacious kitchen that’s ideal for holiday cooking. Ask your agent to mention these features in your listing and consider staging rooms to showcase their potential for holiday gatherings. Buyers who love the holidays will appreciate these special touches.
Decorating for the holidays can seem overwhelming, particularly when you’re also trying to sell your house. We’ve got a great resource that can help! Our Holiday Decorating Guide offers quick and easy holiday decorating tips that will make you look like a pro.
Prepare for Quick Getaways
Sometimes, holiday showings can be a bit unexpected. Be ready to make a quick exit, so potential buyers can explore your home without feeling rushed. Have a plan in place to head to a nearby cafe, park, or family member’s house during showings. This ensures that buyers can thoroughly explore your property and envision themselves celebrating future holidays there.
Some of our favorite quick trip getaways in Saskatoon include:
- Tobogganing at one of Saskatoon’s best sledding hills
- Saskatoon’s Cat Cafe The Purrfect Cup
- Darkside Donuts
- The nearest hockey rink (to play or watch)
- Clip n’ Climb
- Stoked Center
Bonus Tip – Be Flexible
Sometimes selling through the holidays means having to be extra patient and more flexible than normal. Your house may not be as perfect as it would be at another time of year. You will likely be a little more overwhelmed by the process than usual. Expect it – and remember, you’ve got this!
Selling your house during the holiday season is entirely possible with the right approach. Embrace the spirit of the season, keep your decor understated, and work with your real estate agent to accommodate showings without disrupting your celebrations.
By following these friendly tips, you’ll increase your chances of finding the perfect buyer and making your own holiday season a merry one. Good luck!