Fall is just around the corner, which means that home sellers need to be on the lookout for ways to enhance their home’s appeal for the autumn season. From decor tips for making spaces more warm and comforting, to quick fixes that make an outstanding first impression with fall and winter buyers, today’s guide aims to help you properly stage your home for the gathering and holiday seasons.

Warmth & Comfort

The primary feeling that cold-weather buyers are looking for in a home is coziness. Whether it be a warm, crackling fireplace, an inviting color scheme, or extra-comfortable throw blankets and pillows, there are a myriad of ways to prepare your home for winter in ways that buyers will instantly recognize. Prioritize areas of gathering and fellowship and make small changes to add fall colors to the space, be it through a new wall color, candles and other decor objects, or fall florals. Add to seating areas with plush textiles and consider strategically placing rugs over cold hardwood floors.

Inviting Light

The home will receive fewer average hours of sunlight during the fall and winter months, so compensate for this by making sure that your home’s indoor lighting creates an inviting atmosphere for buyers. Floor and table lamps, wall sconces, and floor spot lights are all easy additions to layer in more light. Consider replacing any cool-toned bulbs with warm ones to mimic warm sunlight or gentle lantern light.

Seasonal Scents

A fall-ready home wouldn’t be complete without the scents of the gathering and holiday seasons. Be careful not to overwhelm guests who attend showings of the home with scents that are too strong or that compete with each other throughout the home. Additionally, be sure to place scents in areas of the home that match or evoke the proper feeling— for instance, a sweet dessert scent like cranberry or cinnamon pumpkin in the dining area, an oaky or moody scent like sandalwood or cedar in a living area or master bedroom, and a gentle, clean scent in the bathroom such as honeycrisp apple or fall leaves.

Colorful Curb Appeal

For the outside of your home, maxing out fall foliage is a must. For homes with autumn trees, pruning and raking leaves regularly will help the colors of your home’s landscape stand out. Homes without autumn foliage can substitute by planting new foliage and touching up existing landscaping, adding potted plants, and sprucing up the front door with a maple wreath or similar decor. Want to add a pop of color to the outside of your home? Consider repainting your window trim, porch, or decking in a bright neutral or warm autumn color.

Want more staging inspiration? Check out our other guides on staging your home to sell like a pro.