The weeks after the holidays are one of the best times to reset, declutter, and get your home market‑ready. Buyers coming out in January and February are typically serious, and a fresh, well‑prepared home can stand out against listings that still look like last month’s party.

Start by De‑Holidaying Your Home

Once the new year hits, remove almost all seasonal decor so buyers are not distracted by last month’s celebrations. Pack away trees, lights, oversized yard decorations, and personalized ornaments so rooms feel calm, neutral, and spacious. Light, simple touches like a winter wreath or a neutral throw blanket can stay if they look more “cozy winter” than “holiday.”

Declutter and Depersonalize

Holiday gifts, extra serving dishes, and guest bedding often leave surfaces and closets overstuffed. Go room by room and:

• Remove stacks of mail, toys, and décor from counters and tables.

• Thin out what’s in closets and cabinets so they look roomy, not crammed.

• Take down family photos, kids’ artwork, and anything strongly personal or religious.

The goal is for buyers to imagine their life in the home, not feel like they are walking through someone else’s memories.

Deep Clean After Holiday Traffic

Holiday guests and gatherings are tough on floors, kitchens, and bathrooms. Before listing:

• Do a top‑to‑bottom clean: dust ceiling fans, wash baseboards, clean windows, and wipe doors and light switches.

• Shampoo carpets or have them professionally cleaned; mop and polish hard floors.

• Pay extra attention to kitchens and baths: scrub grout, shine fixtures, clean appliances inside and out, and remove odors from trash and drains.

A spotless home photographs better and signals to buyers that the property has been well cared for.

Repair, Refresh, and Neutralize

January is the perfect time to tackle small repairs and cosmetic updates that holiday busyness delayed. Patch nail holes from seasonal décor, touch up scuffed trim, tighten loose handles, and replace burned‑out bulbs. If walls are bold or dated, repaint key spaces like the living room, kitchen, and primary bedroom in light, neutral tones to appeal to the widest range of buyers.

Re‑Stage Rooms for Space and Flow

Holiday gatherings often bring in extra chairs, tables, and décor that crowd rooms. Before photos or showings:

• Remove excess furniture so buyers can move easily and see the size of each room.

• Arrange seating to highlight focal points such as a fireplace, large window, or open floor plan.

• Use simple, coordinated textiles—like solid throw pillows and a folded blanket—to add warmth without visual clutter.

Think “model home”: functional, welcoming, but not overdone.

Refresh Curb Appeal in Winter

Even in the post‑holiday slump, your exterior sets the first impression. Take down outdoor lights and seasonal inflatables, then:

• Sweep walkways, porches, and driveways; remove any lingering decor that looks dated or tired.

• Add a clean, new doormat and a seasonal but neutral wreath.

• If weather allows, trim dead branches, tidy flower beds, and group a couple of healthy planters by the front door.

Buyers should feel like they are arriving at a well‑maintained home, not the tail end of a long party.

Create a Cozy, Non‑Holiday Winter Atmosphere

You can still lean into the season without screaming “holidays.” Focus on a cozy winter mood:

• Use soft lighting with warm‑white bulbs and a few table or floor lamps.

• Add texture with knit throws, neutral pillows, and a simple centerpiece of greenery or candles.

• Keep scents mild and universal—lightly fresh, clean, or subtle vanilla—rather than strong pine or food fragrances.

This makes the home feel inviting while staying timeless in listing photos.

Get Photo‑Ready and Showing‑Ready

Before listing photos, do a final sweep: hide cords and chargers, clear kitchen and bathroom counters, straighten bedding, and open blinds or curtains for natural light. For showings, keep a couple of “grab‑and‑go” bins or baskets ready so you can quickly toss last‑minute clutter inside and store it in your car or a closet.

Ready to Sell?

If you are thinking about listing soon and want a customized plan for your home, reach out today for a no-obligation walkthrough so you know exactly what to fix, stage, and prioritize before you go live!

Jessica Heredia | 650.667.0523