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Autumn in Central Illinois brings gorgeous scenery, pumpkin patches, football, and cool breezes — but it also brings some easy-to-make mistakes that can spook potential buyers if your home is on the market.
If you’re selling this fall in Peoria, Tazewell, or Woodford counties, it’s important to put your best foot forward. The crisp weather and changing leaves may draw more attention to homes for sale, but certain seasonal missteps could cost you offers. Here are some of the most common fall real estate mistakes that sellers should avoid — and what you should do instead to keep buyers saying “yes” instead of “boo.”
1. Going Overboard with Holiday Decor
Don’t turn your showing into a haunted house. A little seasonal flair goes a long way, but avoid excessive Halloween decorations, spooky sounds, or anything too polarizing. The goal is to highlight your home, not your enthusiasm for horror movies. A simple fall wreath, a few tasteful pumpkins on the porch, and warm-toned mums can strike the perfect balance.
Pro Tip: If you love decorating, shift focus to cozy accents like warm blankets, fall-scented candles, or a stylish table centerpiece.
2. Poor Lighting Inside the Home
With days getting shorter, homes can feel darker, especially during late afternoon showings. A dim interior can make your home feel smaller, colder, and less welcoming.
Replace burnt-out bulbs, add brighter bulbs in key areas (like kitchens and bathrooms), and open curtains or blinds fully before each showing. A well-lit home gives buyers a better impression, especially in rooms that already lack natural light.
3. Neglecting the Yard and Gutters
Falling leaves are beautiful — until they clog your gutters and blanket your lawn. First impressions start at the curb, and a messy yard in fall sends the wrong message to buyers. Keep the lawn mowed, leaves raked, and gutters cleaned out. Buyers will see a well-maintained home that feels move-in ready.
Bonus Tip: Trim back bushes and clear walkways so your home’s exterior feels open and inviting.
4. Ignoring That Musty Fall Smell
Fall can bring moisture, and with it, that musty “closed-up” smell, especially in basements. That’s a major red flag to buyers, even if your home is in perfect shape.
Before each showing, air out the house or use a dehumidifier in damp spaces. You can also simmer cinnamon sticks and cloves on the stove or bake a quick batch of cookies to give your home a warm, inviting scent.
5. Skipping the Cozy Factor
This is one time of year where cozy wins. Buyers want to walk into a home that makes them feel comfortable and warm.
Add soft textures like throw pillows, a warm rug, or a flannel blanket across the couch. Stage the fireplace if you have one, even if it’s not in use. These small touches create an emotional connection and help buyers picture themselves spending fall evenings in your space.
Final Thoughts
Fall is a fantastic time to sell, especially in Central Illinois where we see serious buyers even into November. But seasonal mistakes — even well-meaning ones — can turn people off and hurt your bottom line.
With a little awareness, the right prep, and a REALTOR® who understands how to highlight your home’s seasonal strengths, you’ll be in great shape.
If you want advice tailored to your specific home or want to see what your property could sell for this fall, reach out today. I’ve helped over 1,000 buyers and sellers across our region — and I’d love to help you, too.
