Christmas is fast approaching and Richard Gray, CEO of Harcourts South Africa, has given a host of strategies for homeowners looking to make a successful sale over the holidays.

“While some may perceive the holiday season as a challenging time to sell, it can actually be a strategic advantage for sellers who approach it with the right strategies,” Gray said.

With this in mind, Gray provided a list of tips for South Africans looking to sell their properties over the holidays:

• Festive Decor and Ambiance: Sellers should embrace the holiday spirit by decorating your home tastefully, as this can create an emotional connection with potential buyers.

• Flexible Showings: As buyers may have limited availability during the festive period, sellers should be accommodating with showing schedules, which can help attract serious buyers.

• Warm and Inviting Atmosphere: Guarantee their home is warm and inviting. The air conditioner should be set at a comfortable temperature, whilst a soft holiday can create a pleasant ambience during showings.

• Highlight Festive Features: Sellers should also highlight features that are especially appealing during the holidays, including a spacious dining area or outdoor entertaining spaces.

• Professional Photography: Professional real estate photography can also help boost a holiday charms in online listings and marketing materials.

• Marketing Strategy: Sellers should also engage with their real estate agent to craft a holiday-themed marketing strategy that emphasises the advantages of buying a home during this time, including potential tax advantages.

Read: The top holiday home hotspots in South Africa