As the holidays approach, your home can be more than a place for festive gatherings; it can be a powerful asset if you’re preparing to sell. At Set the Stage-Bluff City East, we help Memphis-area homeowners and real estate agents refresh spaces so homes feel warm, inviting, and ready for both guests and buyers. A cozy home also serves as a perfect backdrop for new and special holiday memories. Follow these five easy tips to prepare for the season.
1. Declutter and reset
Start by creating open, inviting spaces that feel calm and ready for guests or buyers. Remove excess items, clear pathways, and neutralize décor so your home appeals to both holiday visitors and prospective buyers. A clean, uncluttered palette allows buyers to imagine themselves in the space. You don’t have to set aside hours for this; set a timer for 10 minutes and go through your home with a large bin. Pack your clutter away in the bin.
2. Add seasonal touches
You don’t have to completely redecorate. Incorporate subtle seasonal décor with a fall or holiday wreath, a seasonal centerpiece, or a cozy throw. You want your home to feel timely and warm, not dated or overly themed. Use seasonal touches that enhance your home’s positive aspects and distract from its less appealing features.
3. Update lighting
Warm, layered lighting instantly elevates the mood and highlights your home’s best elements, both for holiday entertaining and for listing photos. Think table lamps, floor lamps, and accent lighting that showcase architectural features and cozy zones.
4. Swap key pieces
To spruce up your space for the holidays, use statement furniture and décor items that elevate the look without requiring a full redesign. Our Set the Stage inventory offers a quick and easy way to upgrade for guests or potential buyers. Whether you’re expecting holiday guests or prepping for showings, swapping out outdated or mismatched pieces can make a big difference in first impressions.
5. Stage for comfort
Highlight cozy textures, inviting seating arrangements, and usable spaces. Show off how your living room, dining area, or guest room can comfortably host friends, family, or buyers imagining their own lifestyle. Staged homes help people feel at home instantly.
Why staging matters, even during the holidays
The data are clear: Staging is about more than looking pretty; it gives real return on investment. According to the latest National Association of Realtors 2025 “Profile of Home Staging” report, 29% of agents said homes that were staged received a 1-10% increase in the dollar value offered. Almost half of sellers’ agents also observed that staging reduced time on market. Staged homes sold at about 109% of listing price in the third quarter of 2025, according to Real Estate Staging Association data. With the Memphis Area Association of REALTORS reporting that there are ample homes for sale in the market, staging your home this holiday season can help it stand out, sell faster, and fetch a stronger offer.
Why choose Set the Stage for a professional staging consultation?
Set the Stage-Bluff City East is local to Memphis. We know what buyers here expect, and we bring warm, professional expertise with holiday-ready flair. Whether you’re prepping for guests or listing your home, our “Love Your Space Consultation” can help you create a setting that feels fresh, inviting, and sale-savvy.
Ready to prepare your home for holiday guests and potential buyers? Contact us to schedule your consult, and let’s stage it with intention.
