October is the perfect month for an exterior refresh. Vibrant leaves, a chill in the air, and seasonal events make it easy to create a warm, welcoming look that appeals to your neighbours and a potential buyer. Whether you’re preparing to list or simply looking to get in the spirit, these tips are for you!
Start with a Seasonal Clean Up:
Before you start decorating, it’s important to have a clean canvas to make your work stand out. Take some time to rake leaves and trim bushes, and wash any porches, walkways and walls for a () look. Seasonal flowers can be swapped for like mums, dahlias, or celosia.
Embrace the Season
October is the season of warm colours and cozy hues. Seasonal plants like pumpkins and gourds can be added in shades of orange, burgundy and green.
For Sellers: Don’t Go Overboard
If you’re looking to sell, keep the overall look neutral. White pumpkins, lanterns, or seasonal plants help elevate your home. Overly scary or distracting decorations, such as skeletons, flashing lights, or spooky soundtracks, can distract or potentially scare away potential buyers.
Highlight Features
Seasonal decor can be used to draw attention to your home’s best features. Lining walkways with lanterns or seasonal lights is a great addition that provides both function and aesthetic appeal. A cozy porch is an attractive look for sellers and homeowners alike; little touches like planter boxes and porch chairs make your space feel inviting to guests.
For Sellers: Halloween Flair
If you love Halloween, you don’t have to skip it, just keep it tasteful and not overwhelming. A few carved pumpkins or a fun seasonal wreath can provide a festive feel without overwhelming your curb appeal. However, if you're not looking to buy, then do whatever makes you happy; one of the joys of owning your home is the freedom to decorate however you like!
Final Thoughts
October offers the perfect opportunity to blend seasonal charm with market-ready style. By keeping decorations tasteful, tidy, and complementary to your home’s exterior, you’ll create a space that attracts buyers and delights neighbours and trick-or-treaters all month long.
When people think of buying or selling a home, spring is often the season that comes to mind. Warmer weather, blooming gardens, and longer days can create a natural rush of activity in the housing market. But if you’re considering a move, waiting until spring isn’t always the smartest strategy. Late September through November can offer unique benefits that both buyers and sellers shouldn’t overlook.
Less Competition Means More Opportunity
Spring is famous for crowded open houses and bidding wars. By contrast, the fall market typically brings fewer competing buyers and sellers, which can work in your favour. Buyers may find that homes linger on the market a bit longer, giving them room to negotiate. Sellers, on the other hand, benefit from more serious buyers; those who are shopping in autumn are often looking to move in before the holiday season.
Motivated Sellers
Many homeowners who list in the fall are doing so because they need to. Whether it’s for a job relocation, downsizing, or preparing for next year, this can mean faster negotiations and better deals for buyers. Sellers who price strategically can still attract strong offers, especially from buyers eager to settle before the holiday season.
Quicker Transactions
With fewer listings and less market congestion, fall transactions often move more smoothly and quickly. Lenders, inspectors, and movers usually have more availability, reducing the stress of tight deadlines. For sellers, that can mean closing before the holidays and starting the new year with a clean slate.
Seasonal Curb Appeal Still Works in Your Favour
Spring may have flowers, but fall can offer its own charm. Golden leaves, cozy décor, and crisp air create a warm, inviting atmosphere for showings. A well-staged home with autumn accents can stand out and make buyers feel at home the moment they walk in.
Planning Ahead for the New Year
For buyers, purchasing in the fall allows you to settle in before the new year, giving you time to decorate, host holidays, and start fresh in January. Sellers can also use this timing to their advantage, freeing them to focus on new opportunities without the pressure of peak-season chaos.
While spring may be the traditional “hot” season, fall can offer unique advantages that can lead to better deals, smoother transactions, and less stress. If you’re ready to move, don’t assume you have to wait for the right moment. The right time to buy or sell is when it fits your life. Right now, that might mean making your move before the first snowflake falls.
