Winter Staging: How to Make Your Home Look Beautiful when It's Miserable Outside

When the weather outside is frightful, you may feel anything but delightful if you're hoping to attract potential homebuyers. When you're staging a home for sale, you want to make it as appealing as possible - especially during the winter months. Even if the outdoors aren't exactly in your favor, you can still create an unforgettable interior that will leave everyone impressed and longing for a second look.

Embrace The Season

Winter has an allure all its own, so take advantage of that when deciding on your staged decor. Catch the seasonal spirit and place festive accents throughout the home like Christmas trees, ornaments and holiday vignettes. This evokes a pleasing "home for the holidays" feel and will delight anyone who steps foot into your house.

Although there are many possibilities for wintertime decorations, be sure your choices are tasteful, but not overdone. Too many blinking lights or faux wreaths can look tacky, so use your best judgment as you decorate. The age-old adage, "less is more" rings quite true in this scenario.

Keep It Clean

In the colder months, it's all too easy to drag the outdoors in. If you live in an area prone to snow, you're no stranger to the inevitable mess brought on by a winter storm. Keep entryways clean and clutter-free, and provide a sturdy mat on which visitors can wipe their shoes. Vacuum up any dirt or residue and give the area a quick tidying-up with a sweeper-mop before showings.

Warm It Up

Few things are more welcoming than a warm, cozy home. Just as you layer your clothing in the winter, try applying the same concept to your furniture with extra throw pillows and blankets. Create an inviting mood with scented candles placed tastefully around the home. Choose rich scents like cinnamon and vanilla that fill the air without being overpowering.

If you have a fireplace, take the opportunity to fire it up and enjoy the crackling ambiance. Visitors will be sure to envision themselves huddled around the blaze on a cold winter's night - and that's just what you want them to do.

If you need additional tips for staging a home during the winter, an experienced real estate agent can make an excellent resource. Many will be happy to come to your home and offer suggestions to ensure you get the best possible results.