Most people assume the holidays are the worst time to sell. Spoiler: they’re not. Sure, spring and fall bring more buyers, but they also bring way more competition. Over the holidays, the inventory drops — and serious buyers pop up. Anyone braving the cold to view homes in December? They mean business.
Plus, people take time off work, they’re in a better mood (usually!), and your home naturally feels cozier this time of year. Lean into that. If you’re thinking of selling during the holiday season, here’s how to make it work for you instead of against you.
Keep the Holiday Décor in Check
I love a good festive vibe as much as anyone, but when your house starts looking like the North Pole gift-wrapping department, buyers get distracted, or worse, overwhelmed.
A few tasteful touches are perfect:
A wreath
Soft white lights
A simple tree
Cozy throws and warm textures
Buyers expect décor, just not your entire life story displayed in ornaments. Keep personal items tucked away so they can imagine their own holidays in the home. The goal: cozy, not cluttered.
Make the Weather Work for You
Let’s be real, nobody enjoys bundling up and trudging through slush to look at houses. So when they walk into yours, it should feel like the warmest, most inviting haven they’ve stepped into all day. And on that note, please make sure you have an oversized rug inside the front door for wet boots.
Think:
A little extra warmth in the thermostat (even more important in vacant homes)
Fireplace on (if you’ve got one, show it off - huge selling point!)
Soft lighting
Maybe a subtle scented candle (vanilla or pine, not “Grandma’s Fruitcake Explosion”)
Warm drinks such as coffee, cider, or hot chocolate at an open house
When buyers feel comfortable, they linger. And the longer they stay, the more time they spend picturing themselves living there.
Boost Your Curb Appeal (Snow and All)
Winter curb appeal matters more than you think and most sellers ignore it. Big opportunity.
A few must-dos:
Keep the driveway, sidewalk, and walkways shoveled and salted
Clear snow off railings and steps
Make sure the entrance is well-lit
Add simple white string lights or one or two tasteful holiday pieces
Show off those permanent lights if you’ve got them- buyers love them
Buyers form opinions before they even get out of the car. If your home looks neglected, they might not bother coming inside.
Price Strategically: This is Not the Time to Experiment
Pricing is everything, no matter the season, but during the holidays it’s especially important. Some buyers will wait for spring, which means the ones shopping now expect value. Price too high, and they'll scroll right past.
Your pricing sweet spot should reflect:
Current market comparables
Your neighbourhood trends
Condition, upgrades, and buyer demand
Work with your realtor (hi 👋) to hit the right price from day one. And yes, please make sure the lockbox is in a spot humans can actually reach in winter. This is not the season to have it frozen onto the back gate behind a snow drift.
Bonus Tip: Highlight Winter-Friendly Features
If your home has:
A heated garage
Triple-pane windows
A newer furnace
In-floor heat
Gas fireplace
Great mudroom
…bring those front and center in your marketing. Winter buyers appreciate practical upgrades even more.
Bottom Line
Selling during the holidays isn’t just possible, it can be surprisingly effective when you play it right. With low competition, motivated buyers, and a home that feels warm and magical, you might just find this is the perfect season to make your move.
