The holidays are here, and your Omaha home is on the market. You want to keep that festive spirit alive, but you also don't want to send potential buyers running for the hills with an overload of tinsel and inflatables. Finding that sweet spot between "bah humbug" and "Clark Griswold's house" is easier than you think.

December buyers in Omaha are serious—they're motivated to close before the new year, often relocating for jobs or wanting to get settled before spring. They're imagining their own holidays in your space, not trying to navigate around your collection of ceramic Santa figurines. Here's how to strike the right balance.

DO: Keep It Classy and Neutral

Think tasteful over themed. A simple wreath on the front door, white lights on the staircase railing, or a classic garland along the mantel adds warmth without overwhelming the space. Nebraska winters can feel gray and harsh, so a little bit of that warm glow makes your home feel inviting—not like a staging ghost town.

DO: Let Natural Light Shine

Omaha's December days are short, and natural light is gold when you're selling. Keep window treatments open during showings and avoid blocking windows with large Christmas trees or heavy decorations. A well-lit home feels bigger and more welcoming, especially when buyers are touring multiple properties in the same afternoon.

DO: Add Subtle Seasonal Touches

A bowl of pinecones on the kitchen island, a few candles with cinnamon or pine scents (unlit during showings), or a small arrangement of winter greenery can create that cozy feeling without taking over. These touches say "home" without screaming "MY home."

DON'T: Block Traffic Flow

That 7-foot tree in the corner of your living room? If buyers have to squeeze past it to see the fireplace or walk through to the dining room, it's a problem. Keep pathways clear and furniture arrangements open. Buyers need to move freely through your space to envision themselves living there.

DON'T: Display Personal or Religious Décor

Your family's treasured nativity scene or Hanukkah menorah might mean the world to you, but personal and religious items can make it harder for buyers to see the home as theirs. Keep decorations neutral and universally appealing—this isn't about erasing your traditions, it's about marketing to the widest audience possible.

DON'T: Go Overboard Outside

Omaha buyers appreciate curb appeal, but inflatable snowmen, projection lights covering every surface, and rooftop displays can be distracting. Stick with simple exterior lighting—clean white lights along the roofline or walkway, and maybe a wreath on the door. You want buyers focused on the home's architecture and landscaping, not wondering how much your electric bill runs.

The Bottom Line

Selling during the holidays in Omaha doesn't mean sacrificing all the festive cheer. It just means being strategic. Keep it simple, keep it neutral, and keep the focus on your home's best features. Buyers are out there right now, ready to make moves before the year ends—don't let over-the-top decorations get in the way of their vision.

Thinking about listing your Omaha home this winter? The Heim-Berg Team knows the local market inside and out. Call us at 402-677-9024 to discuss your selling strategy today.