Holiday decor often possesses a warm and nostalgic feel, but when selling, you will want to leave the bulk of the decor in its boxes.
“Holiday décor is a big no-no in staging. You’re trying to appeal to the most people — and not everyone celebrates Christmas or Hanukkah,” said Beverly Parkinson, an interior designer and stager based in Los Angeles and owner of Bungalow Bluejay.
Depersonalize the season
Holidays are personal, and when selling, you want to make your home impersonal.
Common mistake: “Decorating extensively for the holidays while the home is on the market does not appeal to the largest audience,” said Barbara Brock, a home stager and professional organizer based in New York City. “Potential buyers come in all types, and the most neutral visual presentation appeals to a wider buyer pool.”
Not decorating can be extremely hard and emotional for sellers but keeping your home neutral is important for welcoming all buyers, regardless of their faith.
“Here in the S.F. Bay Area, our buyer pool is very diverse. Decorations for the holidays should be minimal, as we have large populations that celebrate Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, other celebrations, or don’t celebrate at all,” said Tia Hunnicutt, broker and founder of Proxima Realty Group, in an email.
Neutral nods to winter
If you feel like you must have some holiday decor, then keep it neutral, Hunnicutt said. Stick to a simple winter theme and avoid specific holidays.
Pro tip: “Do things that are small, tasteful and just a little hint of the season,” Parkinson said. “But I would never recommend actual holiday décor.”
Whites, silvers or golds could keep hints of festiveness while being neutral to holidays.
Pro tip: “Accent pillows, greenery and white decor can go a long way to bring a holiday color into a home,” Brock said.
Take away the tree
The classic Christmas tree is a traditional hallmark of the season for many, but this element could be a turnoff to buyers.
Common mistake: “Even a beautiful Christmas tree can alienate buyers who don’t celebrate. It’s not personal — it just doesn’t help them imagine themselves living there,” Parkinson said.
Christmas trees don’t always look as beautiful in photos. The tree might make the room feel and look cluttered.
Pro tip: “I suggest a floral arrangement or a bowl of greenery, but I do not suggest a wreath or Christmas tree,” Brock said. “Think seasonal colors, such as cranberries, gold acorns, but not overly excessive.”