Home Staging Mistakes to Avoid During Winter

PorchLyte • November 9, 2022
Are you looking to sell your home this winter? You’ve come to the right place! People who look to buy properties during winter are usually serious buyers. They have a sense of urgency and want to close on a property before the year ends. Don’t miss the opportunity to impress winter home buyers by avoiding these home staging mistakes!

Mistake # 1: Having too many holiday decorations

We get it, you’re excited to decorate for Christmas. But there’s a fine line between stylish and unpleasant. Holiday decor can definitely add a feeling of warmth and festivity, it can also highlight the beauty of your home. However, you need to remember that you don’t know the preferences of potential home buyers and too much decor might turn some of them off.

Mistake # 2: Turning off the heat

Having a cold home during winter can definitely deter prospective buyers. The cold can distract them from seeing the best features of your house. If you turn off your heater when you leave the house, you need to be aware of your open house and private showing schedules so that you can prepare ahead of time. A warm home is an inviting home, especially during winter. It would be plus points for buyers if they feel warm and cozy when they tour your house.

Mistake # 3: Not clearing the entryway

If you live in a snowy area, chances are your driveway will be full of snow and ice. Your entryway might also be snowy and icy with traces of muck from boots and shoes that enter the house. Your driveway and entryway are the first two things that buyers see, so it’s so important to keep them clean for a good first impression.

Mistake # 4: Having pets wander around

Winter is a time when pets stay longer inside the house. That only means that they’ll wander the house more, leave their toys on the floor, and leave pet hair all over the place. This is a big no-no when you’re expecting prospective buyers to tour your home. It can be unpleasant for some to sense the presence of a pet when touring a house.

Instead, you can have your pets stay only in one area of your home when they’re inside or have a friend or relative pet-sit them while the showings are ongoing.

Mistake # 5: Not bringing in enough light

It can get pretty dark during winter months so make sure to bring in enough light to your home. Open the blinds and turn on all the lights even during the day. Show potential buyers that your home is a bright and welcoming place rather than a dark and uninviting space. Turn on the fireplace to add an extra cozy atmosphere at home. Instead, you can have your pets stay only in one area of your home when they’re inside or have a friend or relative pet-sit them while the showings are ongoing.

Mistake # 6: Not going above and beyond

Go above and beyond to make sure that your home is welcoming, cozy, and just what buyers are looking for. Add extra throw pillows and blankets in your living room, turn on the fireplace, light up scented candles, put away personal items, and always ensure that your house is clean and organized.

Home staging is definitely complicated, but it can be easier if you avoid these mistakes! Of course, your real estate agent should be able to help you overcome these challenges and give you more guidance on how to stage your home better.

If you’re looking to sell your home this winter, I’m the agent for you! Let’s connect at [phone number] and [email address].

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