Is your house ready for Christmas viewings?

Getting your home looking and feeling inviting enough to attract a sale can be a bit of a chore, but at this time of year you’re at a distinct advantage. All the colours, sparkle and smells of Christmas can be a real winner when it comes to making your home look pretty and cosy, and with just a few tips you could be signing on the dotted line before you’re singing Auld Lang Syne.

Bake some gingerbread. We’ve all heard that old tip about the smell of freshly cooked bread wafting through a home when potential viewers arrive, and this takes things one step further. “Gingerbread is one of the warmest, spiciest and most tempting smells out there, and now’s the perfect time to use it to your advantage” says Kubie Gold estate agent.

Hang some orange and clove pomanders. Not only do these add a lovely homely touch to your interior, they smell fantastically festive too. There are lots of tutorials online, but if you don’t have the time or inclination to make them yourself you should be able to find plenty in gift shops and artisan delicatessens at this time of year. Finish with a red velvet ribbon for a really Christmassy touch.

Deck the halls with boughs of holly. “Hanging bundles of holly and mistletoe give a really tasteful designer touch to the home as well as adding a splash of holiday colour. Arrange around fireplaces and hang from kitchen ceilings for a real wow factor” suggests LDG estate agent.

Hang a wreath on your front door. First impressions count, so it’s especially important to make good use of your exterior during December. Buyers will be looking for something a little bit special, so if you can, choose a fancy garland with opulent berries, pine cones and a touch of sparkle rather than opting for the first one you see at the supermarket.

Let it sparkle. This is the one time of the year when you can have as many fairy lights as you like, and that also starts from the outside. If your trees are twinkling you’ll turn your front garden into a magical Christmas fairy tale fit for Santa and his elves, and buyers will love it.

Offer some mulled wine. “We wouldn’t normally suggest plying viewers with alcohol, but this is a great time of year for offering some festive cheer and making people feel at home” says Belgravia estate agent, Best Gapp. If you’re not keen on the idea, non-alcoholic versions or hot chocolate are just as inviting. And a few mince pies might just help to seal the deal.

If you’re selling up, now’s a great time to do it. People are generally in a good mood at this time of year, so if you can knock them off your feet with some stunning Christmas decorations and designer touches you’ve got a great chance of ticking their boxes.