Open House Season Starts Early: How to Stand Out in Winter

While spring is traditionally known as peak open house season, motivated buyers don’t stop searching when temperatures drop. In fact, winter showings can offer a unique advantage: with fewer homes on the market, well-prepared listings have a chance to shine early in the season. For sellers, creating a warm and welcoming environment during winter showings is essential to leaving a memorable impression.

Here’s how to make your home stand out when the weather turns cold.

Maximize Natural and Artificial Lighting

Winter days are shorter, and gloomy weather can make even bright homes feel dimmer. Lighting becomes one of the most important tools in showcasing your space.

Tips to brighten your home:

Open all blinds and curtains to let in as much natural light as possible
Turn on overhead lighting and lamps before buyers arrive
Replace any dim bulbs with warm, higher-wattage options
Add accent lighting in darker corners or hallways

A well-lit home feels larger, cleaner, and more inviting—exactly the impression buyers hope to experience during a showing.

Create a Warm, Comfortable Atmosphere

When buyers come in from chilly weather, the first thing they notice is how a home feels. Warmth sets the tone and makes buyers more at ease as they tour.

Small adjustments make a big difference:

Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature
Light the fireplace, if you have one, to create a cozy focal point
Use soft throws, textured pillows, or a neutral winter rug to add warmth
Avoid drafty areas—seal gaps around doors if needed

A home that feels warm emotionally reads as warm physically, helping buyers imagine themselves settling in.

Keep Entryways Clean and Welcoming

Winter weather can bring snow, mud, and salt—none of which make a great first impression. Your entryway sets the tone, so keep it spotless and functional.

Entryway staging ideas:

Ensure walkways and steps are shoveled, salted, and safe
Place a quality doormat outside and a clean rug inside
Provide a designated spot for wet boots or umbrellas
Clear away clutter like coats, bags, or excess furniture

A tidy entry shows buyers that the home is well-maintained, even in harsher conditions.

Use Fresh, Subtle Scents

In winter, homes are closed up tightly, which can lead to stale air or lingering smells. Fresh scents can instantly improve the showing experience—but keep them light and natural.

Scent suggestions for winter showings:

Fresh linen
Light vanilla
Soft pine or cedar
Neutral citrus

Avoid strong fragrances or anything overly seasonal. The goal is to create a clean, fresh backdrop that appeals to most buyers.

The Bottom Line

Winter open houses can be incredibly successful with the right preparation. By focusing on lighting, warmth, clean entryways, and subtle scents, sellers can ensure their home stands out even before the spring season arrives. With fewer competing listings, now is the time to make a strong, early impression on eager buyers.