How to Host an Open House During the Holidays: A Seller’s Complete Guide

Amanda George
Jan 7
3 min read

By: Amanda George, Realtor | George Group Boston, powered by Lamacchia Realty — How to Host an Open House During the Holidays

Hosting an open house between Thanksgiving and the New Year can feel like a lot—but when it’s done correctly, it can be one of the smartest ways to attract serious buyers. If you’re searching how to host an open house during the holidays, the trick is simple: make it warm, easy to tour, and marketed beyond just MLS.

Below is my holiday-ready plan (and open house checklist for sellers) that helps homes show beautifully—even in winter.

Why Holiday Open Houses Still Work

Holiday buyers don’t disappear—they get more intentional. Many are relocating, working with year-end timelines, or ready to move fast when the right home hits the market. With fewer open houses happening, a well-executed event can stand out more than it would in spring.

1. Decorate With Restraint (Holiday-Ready, Not Holiday-Overload)

Holiday decor should enhance the home’s best features—not distract from them.

Holiday open house tips that work every time:

Stick to neutral greenery, wreaths, or simple garland
Use warm white lights (avoid flashing or multicolor)
Choose one focal point (tree or mantel, not both)
Minimize personal or highly specific decor

Buyers should see the home, not the holiday theme.

2. Create a Warm First Impression (Light + Temperature + Scent)

Winter open houses are all about comfort. Buyers notice immediately if the home feels dark or chilly.

Quick wins:

Turn on lamps and soft lighting throughout
Set the thermostat to a comfortable temp
Keep scent subtle (vanilla, pine, cinnamon—lightly)
Add low background music (instrumental/acoustic)

This makes buyers linger—and longer tours often lead to stronger interest.

3. Choose the Best Timing During the Holidays

If you want to master how to host an open house during the holidays, timing is half the strategy.

Best time windows:

Late morning to early afternoon
Avoid major travel days and holiday mornings
Consider Saturday opens if Sundays are packed
Keep it tight: 60–90 minutes is ideal

Shorter, well-attended opens beat long, slow ones every time.

4. Market the Open House Beyond MLS

MLS is necessary—but it’s not enough anymore. Holiday buyers are scrolling on social media and searching on Google in real time.

High-performing promotion plan:

Social posts that sell lifestyle (not just features)
Email blast to your agent network + active buyer lists
Open house signage that’s clean and directional
A simple “Open House” story + reminder post the day-of

The goal is visibility + repetition.

5. Stage for Lifestyle (Not Perfection)

Holiday open houses are emotional. Buyers imagine hosting, cozy nights, and family traditions.

Simple staging moves that help buyers feel it:

Set the dining table with minimal, neutral place settings
Add a throw blanket and a clean, cozy reading corner
Highlight fireplaces, built-ins, natural light, and flow
Remove clutter from entryways and countertops

This is winter open house staging that sells without feeling “staged.”

6. Make It Easy to Attend (Access = Offers)

Accessibility matters more than ever during the holidays.

Open house checklist for sellers:

Shovel and salt walkways and steps
Clear the porch, entry, and mudroom areas
Secure pets and remove pet items
Keep doors unlocked (where safe) and paths easy to flow through
Ensure bathrooms are spotless and stocked

The easier the tour feels, the more likely buyers are to return for a second showing.

7. Offer Simple Refreshments (Keep It Clean + Allergy-Friendly)

Skip messy snacks. Keep it neat, warm, and subtle.

Best options:

Bottled water
Individually wrapped treats
Coffee station with cups/lids
Light seasonal touch like mini peppermint candies

You want welcoming—not “party.”

Final Thoughts

If you’re trying to figure out how to host an open house during the holidays, remember this: holiday buyers are serious, and a warm, well-marketed open house can create the urgency you want—without waiting for spring. I'm Amanda George with George Group Boston, brokered by Lamacchia, and with over 13 years of experience you won't want to go with anyone else.

📞 Want a holiday listing plan customized to your home and neighborhood?

Let’s connect: georgegroupboston@gmail.com | www.georgegroupboston.com