Staging your home is crucial any time of year—but especially during winter, when weather and a slower market tend to get in the way. These staging tips are sure to put your home in the front of potential buyers’ minds this season.

Tastefully decorate

Use the wintery feel of these months to your advantage—even in warmer climates. Twinkly lights and elegant winter decor can instantly take your home up a notch. A pinecone wreath, seasonal flowers and greenery, and other small landscaping touches could make all the difference to a potential buyer pulling up to your home.

Make it welcoming

The great thing about winter is that no matter where you live, it automatically beckons a cozy feeling into your life. Blankets, the possibility of snow, and a warm fire make you that much more excited for the season. Drape a few throw blankets and pillows on your couches, and light an unscented candle or two to embrace the toasty winter ambience.

Use natural elements

Winter tends to get a bad rap for being dreary, dark, and cold. But there are ways to make the most of these months. Decorating is one way, but you can also bring light into your space by pulling back curtains and opening any blinds. Turn all the lights up and switch out darker lampshades for lighter colors as well!

Tidy up

Those wet gloves and muddy shoes lining the entryway won’t make the best first impression. Triple clean commonly used areas, especially places where debris from outside tends to get tracked in. Wipe down countertops, dust the trim, and vacuum rugs to freshen up. Place a shoe bin by the entrance and encourage visitors to take off their shoes before coming into your home.

Staging during the winter doesn’t have to be a dead end; instead, liven up your interior with these ideas.