The festive season is officially here, and we’re filled with cheer and excitement as celebrations unfold across our global network. From the Caribbean to Canada and from California to the Carolinas, our team has staged and styled countless homes for all occasions, and every type of holiday gathering. Here, we compiled some their top holiday home tips.
Whether you’re looking to make your home extra cozy and inviting for guests, planning a move in the New Year, or simply hoping to capture beautiful and festive photos of your space—these tips from The Agency’s experts are sure to make your holiday season sparkle this year.
Danielle Yeretzian at The Agency Los Angeles
@danielleyeretzian on Instagram
An edited space is an inviting space—whether you’re hosting guests or showcasing your home to potential buyers. While it may feel like a pain to first pair-back your year-round home decor before adding your decorations, this step makes all the difference in letting your holiday decor really shine and become the focal point. I’ve found that leaning into a simple color scheme or pattern and carrying that element through really adds drama and ties your look together, while looking elevated and thoughtful. Happy decorating!
Keep your home décor cohesive with a refined color palette—it photographs beautifully, especially if you’re considering listing your home in 2026. I’ve found that layering soft neutrals with warm metallics—think champagne, ivory, and brushed gold—creates an effortlessly elevated look. It’s a subtle way to evoke luxury while ensuring every corner of your space feels polished and photo-ready
@theagency.kelowna on Instagram
Light the fireplace before wintertime showings—instant atmosphere, instant warmth. If you don’t have a fireplace, don’t fret! Instead, try scented candles like Thymes Frasier Fir or Indigo Scents Vanilla Cashmere for a cozy, inviting touch.
@fleur_coleman on Instagram
Buyers love cozy—layer textures with soft throws, knitted or cashmere pillows, and warm, inviting lighting. Even here in the Cayman Islands, where the weather is warm year-round, those subtle touches create a sense of comfort and belonging that buyers connect with. During the traditional winter months, adding a few cozy, textured accents helps a property feel more like a home. It’s less about temperature and more about creating that welcoming atmosphere people can picture themselves in.
One of my favorite easy holiday touches is setting out a bowl of pinecones mixed with clove-studded oranges. I started doing it before open houses and almost every visitor comments on how warm the home feels. It’s such a simple, natural way to add a little holiday charm and scent to your home.
If you live somewhere that truly gets all four seasons, like New Jersey, let your home shine year-round. Ask your Realtor to capture it in every stage: before you close the pool, when the leaves begin to glow, and especially when your home sparkles under a blanket of snow. When it’s time to sell, you’ll already have a gallery that shows your home’s best side, no matter the season.
@levingroupestates on Instagram
Set the stage for the holiday season. We recommend adding a few simple touches—a styled console, layered textures, or a fresh accent piece—to make your home feel welcoming and festive. If you’re local to Malibu, we have a few curated pieces at my store, Malibu Market & Design, perfect for adding a little holiday warmth.
Don’t overdo outdoor lights—simple and symmetrical always feels more high-end.
@theagency.costarica on Instagram
If you’re listing during the holidays, keep decorations elegant and minimal. Buyers should be able to picture their celebrations, not just yours. Even in the Costa Rica tropics, a touch of greenery is usually a smart choice. Soft warm lights and neutral tones keep things chic while letting your home’s best features take center stage.
Keep the thermostat comfortable during showings—no one lingers in a chilly home. Warm things up a little more with hot chocolate (or a seasonal beverage of your choice).
@luxelowcountry on Instagram
Staging for winter? Embrace that signature coastal charm. Mix lush greenery—magnolia leaves, palmetto fronds, or cedar garlands—with the soft flicker of candlelight for warmth and texture. Layer in oyster shells for a true sense of place—nestled among garlands, arranged in glass hurricanes, or scattered along a tablescape, they add organic coastal elegance. The result? A festive, welcoming space that captures the refined, natural beauty of the Lowcountry in winter.
@abigailxhinesmiller on Instagram
Schedule photos and key showings for true twilight—the 20–30 minutes after sunset—when windows glow and holiday lights feel magical. In my experience, this ‘holiday-card’ lighting makes exteriors pop and interiors feel welcoming. Pro tip: turn on every lamp, set the tree to a warm dim (not max brightness), and add a few porch candles or lanterns to guide the eye.
@anaruelas713 on Instagram
Keep holiday color schemes soft and cohesive—these will photograph best for your Instagram and listing photos, if you’re having them taken.
@kitandcoop on Instagram
Create a cozy vibe at home for the holidays. Examples include: A small pre-lit or tabletop Christmas tree (or a few strings of fairy lights). As for scents, holiday-scented candles or essential oils (cinnamon, pine, orange, clove). For the kids: cozy blanket and a Christmas movie or playlist, my favourite is Charlie Brown. Hot chocolate mix, marshmallows, and mugs. A tin of cookies or snacks for that ‘holiday welcome’ when entertaining.
@stefancohen on Instagram
I always encourage buyers to start their home search early in the New Year. Right after the holidays, many sellers list their homes, so you’ll get first access to fresh, high-quality listings before competition heats up. Plus, those who list in January or February are often highly motivated, which can open the door to better negotiations. Beginning your search early also gives you a clearer read on market trends and pricing before the spring rush. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or relocating, it’s the perfect time to take action.
@allisoncahillesq on Instagram
Most importantly—fill your home with laughter and light. That’s the energy buyers (and guests) feel the moment they walk through your front door.
@bernardo.a.m.koenig on Instagram
Sunset in Los Cabos makes the perfect backdrop. Schedule golden hour showings if you’re selling or holiday season dinners with family and friends to let your home’s elegance shine.
