While the holiday season is often considered a slower time for real estate, serious buyers who continue their search through the holidays are motivated and ready to make decisions. For homeowners looking to sell, this time of year can be ideal, as fewer properties on the market mean less competition, and buyers often seek out cozy, well-decorated spaces. Here’s what holiday home buyers are looking for and how to attract them.

1. Warm and Welcoming Ambiance

Holiday buyers are drawn to homes that evoke warmth and comfort. Setting up your home with seasonal decor can help achieve this effect, but less is often more. A festive wreath on the door, warm lighting, and subtle holiday decorations inside the home can create an inviting atmosphere without overwhelming buyers. Avoid excessive or highly personal decorations, as these can make it hard for potential buyers to envision themselves in the space.

2. Seasonal Scents and Cozy Spaces

The sensory experience plays a big role in how buyers perceive a home. Scents like pine, cinnamon, and clove are associated with the holidays and can make a house feel like home. Baking cookies or simmering a pot of seasonal spices before showings can create a welcoming aroma. Cozy spaces—such as a fireside nook with a comfortable chair or a well-arranged living room—help potential buyers imagine themselves spending the holidays in the home.

3. Energy Efficiency and Winter-Readiness

Buyers viewing homes in colder months are often focused on how well a property can handle winter. They’re looking for homes with good insulation, energy-efficient windows, and updated heating systems. Features like programmable thermostats and sealed doors and windows that prevent drafts can also be selling points. Additionally, consider offering information about average heating costs to reassure buyers about winter energy expenses.

4. Functional Outdoor Spaces

While summer amenities like pools might not be top of mind, functional outdoor spaces that work well in colder weather can appeal to holiday buyers. A fire pit, a cozy outdoor seating area, or even a well-decorated porch with twinkling lights can help buyers see the year-round potential of the outdoor space. Highlight features like covered walkways, a well-maintained driveway, or a sturdy front porch, as buyers often appreciate elements that make winter living easier.

Read more: Backyard Improvements That Add Value to Any Home

5. Ample Storage Space

During the holidays, buyers are thinking about where they’ll store their seasonal items. Highlight the home’s storage potential by organizing closets, attics, and garages to show they’re ready for storage needs. Walk-in closets, kitchen pantries, and even under-stair storage areas can stand out. Make sure to emphasize space that could hold holiday decorations, winter gear, or other bulky items.

6. Flexible, Family-Friendly Layouts

Holiday buyers are often thinking about hosting friends and family, so they look for layouts that make entertaining easy. Open floor plans, spacious dining areas, and an accommodating kitchen are high priorities. If the home has a finished basement or extra bedroom, point out the potential for guest accommodations or holiday hosting options.

7. Well-Maintained Condition

In winter months, buyers pay close attention to how well a property is maintained. Simple maintenance like clearing gutters, fixing any drafty windows, and ensuring paths are clear of ice or snow can make a good impression. Buyers appreciate homes that are move-in ready, especially during a season when they may not have time or resources for significant repairs.

Discover: 10 Ways to Save Money on Home Maintenance

Final Thoughts

By creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere and showcasing a home’s winter-readiness, sellers can appeal to serious buyers during the holidays. With these features in mind, sellers can make their homes stand out and give potential buyers a festive experience to remember.