Selling a Sacramento house during the winter months? The holidays are on everybody’s minds, so you may as well lean into the spirit of the season. Why not incorporate a few festive touches into your open house? Many people wait to list their houses until after the holiday season, however, when done correctly, winter can actually be a great time to sell your Sacramento house — trust us.
Many people are looking to buy before year-end or relocate during winter break. Reaching these people is key to selling at the price you want. And by offering a warm and welcoming open house, your property will stand out to these prospective buyers. As with any open house or home showing, it is important to engage the prospective buyer’s senses. The holiday season is a wonderful time to incorporate elements that will do just that!
We have put together some creative holiday themed open house ideas to help you sell your Sacramento house fast! You’re welcome, and have fun.
How to Host a Holiday Themed Open House in Sacramento
Think Warm and Cozy
Your house should feel warm and welcoming. It may not snow here in NorCal, but your house’s interior can still embrace the coziness of the season. Stage the house to include warm blankets, fluffy pillows, and items that will make your prospective buyer want to curl up with cocoa and a good book. If you have a fireplace, now is the time to light it. Electric fireplaces can also give the comfy vibe and can be used without the heat.
Put Effort Into the Lighting
Sometimes the natural light isn’t enough. Your house should be well lit, but avoid the feeling of a doctor’s office. Keep lighting soft and warm. Choose LED bulbs that are specifically designed for a warm glow as opposed to a bright light. It sounds simple, but creating a comfy ambiance through lighting can make a big difference when it comes to selling your Sacramento home fast this winter.
Incorporate Seasonal Smells
There aren’t many people who dislike the scent of freshly baked cookies, make use of your oven to make some sweet confections (or light a candle that makes it smell like you did). Vanilla and pine are also popular scents and available in candle or oil form. No matter how you choose to incorporate smell, keep it mild. Some people are more sensitive to scents, and you don’t want your efforts to be off-putting.
Offer Comfort Food
There are certain snacks you can serve that will conjure up warm holiday memories (or just be delicious). Get creative and offer pumpkin pie bites, gourmet cookies, or biscotti and apple cider. Keep food light and don’t serve anything that will be too messy. As far as refreshments, you can serve tea, cocoa or finally put your fancy coffee machine to use.
Incorporate Familiar Sounds
Be careful playing holiday hits on repeat. While some people absolutely love Christmas music, others avoid it at all costs — or they’re just sick of hearing it at Old Navy. Keep things low-key, instead, turning to instrumental versions of classic winter songs. Or you could choose light classical music to play in the background. Keep the volume low, so it’s friendly but not overwhelming.
Depersonalize The Decorations
Think of classic design aesthetic you might find gracing the pages of catalog ads. Traditional, winter-themed and clean is a safe bet. When you have people viewing your house, take down personal items such as stockings with names, decorations made by the kids and the “Baby’s First Christmas” ornament. Religious items shouldn’t feature too prominently, because you want to create a warm and welcoming environment for as many people as possible. You can always put your personal items back after the showing.
Hold Off On a Tree
A traditional tree can be large and cumbersome. Usually, furniture is moved around and rearranged, making spaces look cluttered and not as welcoming. Unless you have a wide open room with plenty of EXTRA space for a tree, you might want to consider a small, tabletop version instead.