Chicago Winter Showings: 10 Ways to Make Your Home Look Clean, Cozy, and Spacious
Showing a home in Chicago winter has one big challenge: snow, slush, salt, and bulky coats can make even a beautiful home feel cramped or messy. The goal is simple—make it feel easy to walk in, comfortable to tour, and memorable in the best way. Here are my top 10 tips for snowy-month showings.
1) Clear the approach like a hotel would
Shovel early, salt responsibly, and make sure the front walk, steps, and entry landing are clean and safe. If there’s ice, handle it before showings—not “later.”
2) Make the front door look “ready”
Wipe down the door, shake out mats, and keep the exterior tidy. And yes—take down holiday decorations by February. Buyers notice.
3) Create a real “boot zone”
Skip the pile of boots at the front door. Add a bench for taking boots on/off, a pretty indoor rug, and a tray or low-profile mat that catches slush.
4) Provide a clean-up basket
Have a small, attractive basket near the entry with paper towels (and optionally a discreet microfiber cloth) for quick slush cleanup. It signals “this home is cared for.”
5) Keep the entry closet not stuffed
Winter gear is bulky. If your coat closet looks jammed, the home feels short on storage. Edit it down so it closes easily and looks roomy.
6) Give hats and gloves a “home”
Hooks, a small bin, or a basket inside the closet works great. Loose items look chaotic fast—especially in winter.
7) Don’t forget the back door
If buyers will step outside, make the back entry just as clean and safe as the front. Clear a path, shake out mats, and keep it easy to open the door without stepping into a snowbank.
8) Put the shovel away (nicely)
A shovel leaning against a wall screams “temporary.” Hang it on a hook in the garage, mudroom, or a tucked-away utility spot. Same for salt bags—out of sight.
9) Keep bedroom closets edited, too
Winter clothes take more space than summer. If closets are crammed, buyers assume storage is a problem. Thin and space clothing so it looks intentional.
10) Make it cozy on purpose
This is your advantage. If you have a fireplace, light it (safely) for showings. Add a soft throw, warm lighting, and subtle seasonal touches. Think “inviting,” not “over-decorated.”
Want a winter showing plan tailored to your home and neighborhood? I’m happy to help you prep strategically so your home shines—even in the snow.
