Decorating a home while it’s listed can be a double-edged sword, so it’s important to consider the specific circumstances and the type of buyers you are targeting. Here is a breakdown of when it can be advisable and when it might be better to skip the decorations:
When It’s Advisable to Decorate:
Seasonal Appeal: If it’s the holiday season, tasteful decorations can add warmth, coziness, and a sense of home. Holiday decor can help potential buyers visualize themselves celebrating the season in the home, which can be a selling point.
Showcasing the Home’s Best Features: If done subtly, decorations can enhance the appeal of the home, highlighting certain features (like a grand fireplace or spacious living room) without detracting from the home’s overall aesthetic.
Creating an Inviting Atmosphere: A well-decorated home during the holidays can evoke positive emotions, making buyers feel more at home and comfortable. The right ambiance can set the mood and make the space feel more welcoming.
When It’s Better to Avoid Decorating:
Overcrowding the Space: If the home is already on the market and space is limited, adding too many decorations can make it feel cluttered. It’s important to make sure the home still feels spacious and not overstuffed.
Personalization: Excessively personal or overly themed decorations can make it hard for potential buyers to envision themselves in the space. You’ll want to avoid anything too specific to the seller’s personal taste that could distract from the home’s features.
Buyers’ Preferences: Not all buyers celebrate the holidays, so some may feel alienated or distracted by religious or culturally specific decorations. It’s best to keep the decor neutral to appeal to the widest range of buyers.
Timing: If the listing is expected to be on the market for several months, decorations may lose their appeal after the holidays are over. You don’t want decorations to feel outdated or out of season when potential buyers come to see the home in January or February.
Decorating can be effective if it’s done thoughtfully. Keep it minimal and neutral, highlighting the home’s best features without overwhelming the space. If the decorations enhance the feeling of the home and aren’t overly personal or distracting, it can work in the seller’s favor. But if it risks making the home feel cluttered or overly seasonal, it may be best to keep things simple or wait until the home is under contract.
Scarlet Cirio, Your Winnipeg REALTOR®
431-335-4285
info@scarletcirio.com
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