Staging for the Holidays: Do or Don’t? Your Smart Approach for Tacoma & the Greater Puget Sound

Staging is a powerful tool when listing your home, it’s about setting the emotional stage for the buyer. As we approach the holiday season, the urge to infuse festive décor can be irresistible. After all, a beautifully dressed space feels fresh. But what looks charming during the holidays may feel outdated after. Let’s explore how to strike the right balance, especially for sellers in Tacoma and across the Greater Puget Sound, so your home remains appealing, timeless, and sellable.

Why Holiday-Specific Staging Can Backfire

Photos don’t update.
Professional listing photos are typically taken before your listing goes live, and rarely refreshed. That jack-o’-lantern or Thanksgiving garland might charm at first, but by December? It feels dated.

You want to appeal to every buyer.
Not every potential buyer celebrates the same way, or at all. A winter wonderland might delight some and deter others. Neutral, seasonally elegant décor creates broad appeal.

Staged homes sell faster and for more.
According to the 2025 Profile of Home Staging by NAR, 83% of buyers' agents say staging helps buyers envision the home as their future space. Staging also boosted offers by 1%–5% for 17% of homes and helped 30% of staged listings sell more quickly. NAR

Smart Tips for Seasonal yet Timeless Staging

Stage by season—not holiday. Think cozy autumnal throws, soft winter greenery, and warm, inviting lighting, not specifically themed décor. This subtle shift ensures your space remains relevant through the changing of the seasons.

Capture timeless photos before festive décor appears. Always schedule your professional photos after staging, but before adding holiday touches. That way, your listing remains fresh, no matter how long it stays live.

Embrace minimal holiday touches—thoughtfully. If you want to nod to the season, go subtle: a simple wreath or a natural centerpiece using greenery, pinecones, or elegant ribbon can feel warm without alienating buyers.

Maintain curb appeal. In shorter daylight hours, make your home shine. Well lit sidewalks and entries, or tastefully clustered planters with neutral greenery can make a big first impression.

The Bigger Picture: Why It Matters in Tacoma & Beyond

Photos win online. Most buyers begin their home search online. A clean, neutrally styled listing stands out among dated, overly themed images.

Cost-effective staging still delivers ROI. Although professional staging median costs have risen to around $1,500 as of 2025, the upside includes faster sales and higher offer values, even modest investments matter.

Emotion drives decisions. Buyers are looking for space where they feel at home. Subtle accents, intentional flow, and uncluttered presentation create that “yes, this is home” moment.

Ready to Stage with Strategy (Rather Than Seasonality)?

At Refined Roots Real Estate & Real Estate 55+, we specialize in smart, strategic staging. Whether occupied or vacant, our experts will make your home shine in our local Tacoma and Greater Puget Sound markets. 

Let us help you:

Stage for viewing and photos, without risking a dated listing.

Showcase your home’s best features, without holiday clutter.

Maximize visual appeal and emotional connection, so your home shines no matter the season.

Get in touch today for a free consultation—let’s create a staging plan that’s beautiful and timeless no matter the season.