As the leaves change and the weather cools, fall provides the perfect backdrop for big changes and fresh starts—like selling your home. If you’ve been thinking of selling, now is a great time to do it, and hosting a fall open house will help you kick it off right. Open houses generate excitement about a property, attract potential buyers, and give you an opportunity to showcase everything that makes your house unique and lovable. This autumn, use these 10 tips to make your fall open house extra-cozy and bring the offers rolling in.

1. Start with repairs, maintenance, and fall projects

Before you dive into the cozy decor and autumn-themed treats, make sure your property is in top shape. Address any necessary repairs and perform seasonal maintenance tasks, like cleaning the gutters and checking the heating system. If you have fall landscaping projects to finish up, now is the time. Rake the leaves, clean up any debris, and make sure everything is neat and in good repair. A well-maintained home not only enhances curb appeal but also demonstrates care and attention to potential buyers.

2. Boost fall curb appeal

Once your home is clean and repaired, it’s time to think about the aesthetics. A buyer’s first in-person impression of your home starts as they’re walking up to it—so it’s important that your curb appeal is dialed in. If you have deciduous trees on your property, you already have a beautiful fall color show to help you out. Add to that inviting exterior by cleaning your siding and giving your home a fresh coat of paint. Don’t go wild with the fall-themed decorations, but consider using seasonal details like pumpkins or gourds, potted mums, and colorful wreaths to decorate your front entrance. Add a clean welcome mat if you don’t already have one, and make sure the paint on your front door looks new.

3. Bring out the autumn decor

The wonderful thing about a fall-themed open house is that cozy decor makes your house feel more like home to potential buyers. How do you take advantage of this? Instead of leaning into obvious fall motifs like scarecrows and falling leaves everywhere, incorporate more subtle touches. Embrace fall color palettes with rich reds, deep oranges, and earthy browns, or go with more trendy fall colors like soft peaches and warm honey tones. If you’d rather not paint the walls, bring these hues into your pillows, table settings, and wall art. A tasteful fall centerpiece on the dining table can also add a cozy touch.

4. Offer warm beverages

Nothing says "cozy" like a hot cup of cider, cocoa, or spiced tea. Set up a beverage station at your open house with a variety of warm drink options, along with cups, stirring sticks, and creamers. The comforting aroma of these beverages can create an instant feeling of warmth and hospitality.

5. Don’t forget the snacks

Complement the warm beverages with a selection of fall-themed snacks. Mini apple pies, pumpkin cookies, and rustic charcuterie boards are just a few ideas that can satisfy guests' cravings and add to the overall cozy atmosphere. Just be sure to avoid common allergens like nuts, which are prevalent in fall-themed recipes.

6. Crank up that fireplace

If your home has a fireplace, make sure it's operational and light it up during the open house. You don’t want to overheat the place, but the flickering flames and crackling sounds of a working fireplace provide a soothing ambiance that's hard to resist—especially on a crisp fall day.

7. Break out the fuzzy blankets

For maximum coziness, consider draping fuzzy blankets over couches and chairs. Not only do they add texture and warmth to the decor, but they also encourage potential buyers to settle in and envision themselves living in the space.

8. Hang curtains—or switch them out

Updating or adding curtains with heavier fabrics in fall colors can make the interior of your home feel cozier. Fall is a time for warmth and nostalgia—and dressing your windows with on-theme curtains provides insulation and also enhances the overall aesthetic of the room.

9. Get textured

Incorporate textures like wool, faux fur, and knitted fabrics into your decor. Throw pillows and area rugs with these materials can make a room feel more inviting and comfortable.

10. Consider the lighting

Good lighting is a number one must-have on many buyer wish lists, and as the days get shorter, it becomes increasingly important. At your open house, make sure to optimize the natural light you have to let the sunlight pour in. Clean the windows, open the blinds and curtains, and make your space feel open. For a cozy fall feeling in your artificial lighting, opt for soft options like table and floor lamps with warm-toned bulbs. You can also use string lights in strategic places to make your home feel a little bit magical.

Incorporating these ten cozy touches into your fall open house can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the property and make a strong emotional connection. By creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, you'll increase the chances of leaving a lasting impression and ultimately closing the deal. Happy selling!