As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, the Manitoba real estate market takes on a cozy charm of its own. Fall is actually a fantastic time to sell your home — buyers are serious, the lighting is flattering, and homes just feel more inviting. But to truly make your listing stand out this season, a few thoughtful steps can go a long way.
Here are some unexpected but effective ways to prep your home for fall showings — straight from our Coldwell Banker Preferred Real Estate experts.
1. Turn Up the Hygge (Without Overdoing It)
Buyers want to feel at home, and fall is the perfect season to make that emotional connection. A few strategically placed touches like a chunky knit throw, a lit (unscented or lightly scented) candle, or a cozy reading nook can do wonders.
Pro Tip: Set a mood — not a theme. Avoid going overboard with pumpkins and scarecrows. Aim for warmth, not Halloween.
2. Showcase That Entryway
With Manitoba's fall weather comes boots, coats, and sometimes a bit of mud. Make sure your front entry is both functional and attractive:
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Add a bench or boot tray
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Include hooks for jackets
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Lay down a seasonal (but neutral) doormat
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Use soft lighting or a fall wreath to enhance curb appeal
This reminds buyers that your home handles the seasons gracefully — and that matters in a province like ours.
3. Embrace Manitoba's Natural Beauty
Fall is short in Manitoba, but it’s gorgeous. If you’ve got mature trees, a view of the fields, or even just a backyard with some colour, make sure buyers see it.
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Clean up leaves but leave some colour for charm
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Take your listing photos early while the trees are still vibrant
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Set up outdoor seating with plaid throws or lanterns
This time of year sells the lifestyle, not just the structure.
4. Let There Be (More) Light
As our daylight hours get shorter, you’ll want to maximize light indoors:
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Wash windows (inside and out — it makes a HUGE difference)
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Replace dim bulbs with warm LEDs
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Add accent lighting like lamps or sconces in darker corners
Bonus: a well-lit home also feels cleaner and more spacious.
5. Handle the Senses (Subtly!)
The smell of apple pie might sound appealing, but artificial scents can be overpowering. Instead:
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Simmer apple slices and cinnamon sticks before a showing
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Use fresh-baked cookies or muffins (bonus: offer them!)
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Keep pet odours, mustiness, and cooking smells in check with open windows and neutral cleaners
You want buyers to remember your home, not a mystery smell.
6. Highlight Cold-Weather Features
Is your home well insulated? Do you have new windows, a high-efficiency furnace, or heated floors? Don’t assume buyers will notice — show them!
🔹 Leave utility bills out to demonstrate energy efficiency
🔹 Set the thermostat to a cozy but comfortable temperature
🔹 Highlight fireplaces, attached garages, or mudrooms
These are real perks during a chilly Manitoba winter.
7. Tidy the Yard (But Keep It Inviting)
By September, many yards start to look a little tired. Spruce things up with:
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A fall planter (mums, ornamental cabbage, grasses)
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Clean and store garden tools, hoses, and toys
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Rake regularly — it shows pride of ownership
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Turn off and drain outdoor taps (bonus points for safety!)
If the backyard feels forgotten, buyers may assume the house is too.
8. Think Like a Buyer, Not a Seller
Before each showing, do a quick walkthrough from the front door — as if you’ve never been there before.
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How does it smell?
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Is there clutter?
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Is the lighting warm and welcoming?
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Would you want to sit down and stay awhile?
Ask a friend to do the same — fresh eyes catch things you might miss.
Whether it's September or January, buyers are buying a feeling as much as they are buying a property. A welcoming, thoughtfully staged home in fall can feel like the ultimate warm hug — and that emotional connection can make all the difference.
Thinking of listing your home this fall?
We're here to guide you every step of the way — from staging tips to negotiating offers. Let’s make sure buyers fall in love with your home at first sight. 🍂
📞 Contact us today to book a free home evaluation or staging consultation.
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