The holiday season isn’t only about sipping cocoa by the fire. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for real estate agents to connect with interested buyers and make new connections that time of year.

In this article, we’ll explore why real estate holidays matter and present 28 creative real estate holiday marketing ideas for 2023.

If you want to stand out and build relationships during the winter holiday season, forget traditional marketing. Instead, add a few ideas from this comprehensive list to your real estate marketing calendar!

Why Real Estate Holidays Matter

So, should you care about real estate holiday marketing? YES!

The holiday season is a unique time when emotions run high. And while people are not always looking for new homes during winter, this is a great time to stand out from competitors and keep attracting leads.

With less competition on the market, consider holiday times as an opportunity to promote listings cheaper and better and nurture your relationships.

Unwrapping the Potential

Chrstimas Gift Unwrapped Source

Your real estate knowledge tells you to list houses during spring and summer. However, while the warm seasons have historically brought in prospective clients, the winter season is often overlooked.

Moreover, recent data shows that more serious buyers are looking for homes during the cold weather, as they’re either shopping for deals or avoiding the summer crowd.

From the consumer’s perspective, and more specifically, a house hunter’s POV, the winter months call for jolly times in a brand-new home.

28 Creative Real Estate Marketing Ideas

Now, let’s dive into 28 creative real estate marketing ideas for the 2023 holiday season. They’ll help you attract more leads, grow awareness, and close deals with warm leads.

1. Personalized Closing Gifts For Past Clients

Real Estate Gifts for Past Clients Source

Show your appreciation to your past clients with thoughtful closing gifts. Consider a custom-made holiday eCard or a postcard with their new address.

Personalize the gesture with their name to increase sentiment and show them that you value your relationship.

As a result, you will also boost word-of-mouth marketing, as former home buyers will advocate your brand to new prospects in your local market.

2. Open House Holiday Staging

Real Estate Holidays House Staging Source

Hosting open houses with holiday staging can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here’s how:

  • Festive Decor. Decorate the property with holiday ornaments and Christmas lights.
  • The Right Scents. Studies show that certain scents encourage open-house visitors to grow fond of a property.
  • Free treats. Apart from jolly decorations and the smell of freshly brewed coffee, there’s another way to help people fall in love with your property. Offer snacks and beverages to create a positive memory of the place.

3. Virtual Reality Holiday Events: Immersive Celebrations

Virtual Reality Holiday Events Source

Partner with VR experts like Mootup to create immersive virtual holiday events. They use 3D holiday environments and interactive elements to help you host virtual tours and live events.

The best part? Everyone can attend from the comfort of their own home.

This unique experience enhances client connections and showcases properties innovatively. It shows that your real estate business is up-to-date and meets marketing trends.

4. Host a Holiday Party to Grow Your Network

Real Estate Holiday Party Source

During the winter season, everyone is ready to take a well-deserved break and spend some time with their family and community. Thus, expanding your network during the holidays is a great idea.

Here’s how you can host a successful holiday networking event:

  • Define your party’s theme and set a budget.
  • Plan logistics (answer the “who, where, and how?” of your event.”
  • Choose a suitable venue.
  • Create your invitations with Xara’s free event templates.
  • Plan interactive activities related to your theme (a holiday contest, a quiz night, etc.).

5. Handwritten Holiday Cards: Personalized Direct Mail

Sending heartfelt holiday cards can go a long way. That’s especially true if you send each holiday card as direct mail straight into your lead’s inbox.

Here’s how to make it personal:

  • Handwritten Messages. Take the time to write holiday messages on each card personally. If you’ve got a handful of qualified leads that you wish to persuade, this is your chance to convert them into clients.
  • Choose a Stunning Design. Visuals go a long way. That’s why Xara took care of your holiday postcard designs with ready-to-go templates. Now, you can take care of the rest.
  • Direct Mail Service. Use professional services to send the cards to your past clients. Xara’s Xpress integration allows you to print and send customized templates to any zip code with just a click.

6. Winterization Tips: Email Newsletter Series

Real Estate Property during winter Source

Helping your clients prepare for winter is a valuable service. So, why not make it part of your real estate newsletter?

Here’s how to share winterization tips effectively:

  • Content Creation First. Create a series of informative articles and helpful tips on proofing homes for the winter season. If you lack inspiration, don’t forget that AI for the real estate industry is a gem. You can turn any blank page into a dozen ideas with the right prompt.
  • Email Campaign. Use email marketing platforms to send out regular winterization tips.
  • Email Design. Use Xara’s email newsletter templates to design your content materials. With our Share to Web option, you can update your content in one click, sharing the latest version every time. Then, monitor your campaigns’ performance using our document analytics feature.

7. Share Success Stories That Inspire People

Inspiring success stories can build social proof and engagement. Here’s how to share them:

  • Client Interviews. Reach out to satisfied clients and conduct video interviews about their success stories.
  • Feedback Forms. Ask past clients to leave an honest review about what it’s like working with you.
  • Content Production. Edit these interviews into inspiring real estate video content to share on social media, email, and your website.

8. Organize a Recipe Exchange to Boost Social Media Engagement

Christmas Cookies Source

Engaging your audience with a Thanksgiving or Christmas recipe exchange is fun and interactive. Here’s how to do it:

  • Share holiday recipes on your social media profiles.
  • Encourage followers to share their favorite holiday recipes and use a branded real estate hashtag (e.g., #ThanksgivingwithXagency).

9. Create a Social Media Campaign for a Local Charity

Supporting a local charity is a noble cause. If you have a charity in mind, contact them and plan the campaign together.

You can either:

  • Offer financial support.
  • Offer to create compelling social media content to promote their cause.
  • Offer your time and commitment by volunteering. For example, you can join the food drive on certain days and feed the less fortunate.

As you contribute to your community’s well-being, you can create social posts that encourage your network to offer a helping hand too.

10. Festive Social Media Campaigns

Social Media Campaigns Ideas for Real Estate Holidays Source

Engaging your audience with social media campaigns is a great marketing strategy. Here’s how to make it work:

  • Interactive Posts. Use social media features like polls and quizzes to engage your audience on Facebook or Instagram.
  • Content Calendar. Plan and schedule interactive posts to maintain consistency.
  • Impeccable Visuals. Use real estate templates to create winter-inspired content and build momentum.

You can also advertise on social media platforms if you have a bigger marketing budget. This allows you to send personalized advertising content to specific demographics or areas. For example, during the holidays, you can attract home buyers in California by using festive tailored content.

11. X Days of Homebuying Tips: Email Marketing Series

Real Estate Email Marketing Source

This is one of those real estate marketing ideas that really educate consumers and build trust. Here’s how to execute it:

  • Idea Creation. Develop informative homebuying tips for each day of the series.
  • Content Design. Create your emails in Xara using customizable templates. If you lack inspiration for the writing part, use our AI generator to populate the templates with engaging copy.
  • Email Automation. Set up an email automation sequence to send daily tips to your subscribers. You can do it in MailChimp or Hubspot.

12. Create a Holiday Social Media Giveaway or Contest

Everyone loves free stuff. While giveaways are great marketing tactics for all year round, they’re the king of all holiday content.

Here’s how to do it right as a realtor:

  • Prize Selection. Choose attractive prizes related to real estate or the holiday season.
  • Contest Rules. Clearly define contest rules, entry methods, and timelines. That could be the best outdoor Christmas house decor.
  • Giveaway Design. Use our free templates of Xara to create your winter contest design like a pro.
  • Promotion. Post your holiday giveaway on your social media channels. Invest in real estate ads to make it pop where it matters most.

13. Joint Holiday Promotions: Collaborative Marketing

Real Estate Agents Handshake Source

Collaborating with local businesses can yield great results. Plus, it helps you get the most out of your real estate farming efforts.

Here’s how to go about it:

  • Partner Selection. Identify local businesses that complement your real estate services (e.g., home improvements).
  • Promotional Materials. Create marketing materials to promote joint holiday promotions. For example, you can offer free home inspections once they buy a house with you.
  • Promote Your Collaborations. Make sure everyone knows about your great deals. Post them on your social media feed stories and send them with each newsletter. You can also grow exposure with local flyers, print ads sent with direct mail, and by leaving business cards in local shops.

14. Host Holiday Webinars for Other Real Estate Agents

Real Estate Agent during a webinar for the holidays Source

Sharing knowledge with fellow real estate agents is valuable. It also positions you as a thought leader and top expert.

Ensure your local market knows all about your mentoring efforts to build authority. You can even allow the non-agents to access your webinars if they’re interested in your speech.

Here’s how to host informative webinars:

  • Webinar Content: Prepare presentations on topics relevant to real estate agents.
  • Research. Make sure to deliver accurate and relevant information. Use studies from NAR, Zillow, and other reputable sources to carry out your research. Deliver top-tier market research that’s also visually engaging using these templates.
  • Webinar Platforms. Use platforms like Zoom to host and promote the webinars through your professional network. LinkedIn and email platforms are great grounds for promotion.

15. Present Hot Trends for 2024 Before the New Year

As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to look ahead and explore the hot trends that will shape the real estate market in 2024.

By staying ahead of the curve, you position yourself as an industry leader and provide valuable insights to clients and fellow agents.

Present your ideas in a social media carousel format, creating an interactive and attention-grabbing experience for your followers.

16. Local Business Spotlights

Real Estate Local Businesses Source

You can promote the community and establish yourself as a good neighbor and knowledgeable and trustworthy guide.

Highlight the unique selling points of the neighborhood while advertising partners. Use encouraging posts and captivating visuals of your local area. It will definitely attract potential buyers and renters.

Not only does this strategy help you build a strong online presence, but it also facilitates positive relationships with small businesses. And who knows, they might be willing to do the same for your estate services—creating a mutually beneficial network.

So, start incorporating local business posts on social media into your marketing arsenal to make a meaningful impact.

17. Send Personalized Video Messages

Another powerful tactic to consider is sending personalized video messages.

  • Nurture your client’s relationships: Show appreciation for their loyalty and encourage them to refer friends and family who might be interested in buying or selling properties.
  • Lead-generation efforts: Introduce yourself to prospects. Showcase your local expertise. Capture their interest during this festive time of the year.

You can create meaningful connections and attract more business by tapping into the holiday spirit.

18. Create Holiday-Themed Neighborhood Guides

Real Estate Neighborhood During Winter Season Source

Just like you could have done it for Halloween, Labor Day, or Memorial Day, you can also focus your content on holiday themes like Christmas and New Year’s.

Share what you can do in your neighborhood during that time: “10 Must-Do during Christmas in Nashville!” This will help establish yourself as an expert and guide of your neighborhood.

19. Host DIY Home Decor Workshops

DIY Home Decor Workshops for Real Estate Holidays Ideas Source

Attract (future) homeowners by hosting DIY decor workshops in your local area. Here are some ideas:

  • Make a Christmas door wreath.
  • How to wrap up a gift in an eco-friendly way.
  • Make Christmas cookies and cupcakes.

20. Storytelling Through Instagram Stories: Behind-the-Scenes Engagement

Real Estate Brokerage Behind The Scenes Source

Sharing behind-the-scenes content on Instagram Stories can humanize your brand. Here’s how to connect with your audience:

  • Authentic Content. Share daily routines related to holiday preparations, moments of joy, quizzes, and office tree decorations.
  • Engagement. Encourage users to participate by choosing between different decorations or answering polls.

Use Instagram Stories for behind-the-scenes storytelling. People find inspiration in live and organic content. It makes them feel like they’re part of your journey.

Here are some ideas for holiday-inspired content to post:

  • Share your daily routines related to holiday preparations.
  • Compile moments of joy during the season and make a short video.
  • Create quizzes and ask about their favorite holiday meals (“this vs. that”, polls, etc.)
  • Engage users in your office tree decorations (ask them to choose between different decorations and share the final result).

21. Organize Personalized Property Tours

Real Estate Property Tour Source

It’s the perfect time of the year to showcase the unique features of each property and emphasize how it can make their holidays even more special. Create a warm and inviting atmosphere during the tours, highlighting the cozy aspects of the homes. By providing personalized attention and showcasing the properties in a festive light, you can help potential buyers envision themselves celebrating the holidays in their dream home.

22. Host Holiday-Themed Pop-Up Events with Local Collaborators

Collaborate with local businesses and organize holiday-themed pop-up events in your area. Partner with a local bakery to offer holiday treats, team up with a local decorator to create a festive atmosphere, and invite local musicians to provide live entertainment. These events can attract potential buyers and community members who are interested in the holiday festivities. By hosting these events, you can showcase your properties while creating a memorable and joyful experience for attendees.

23. Offer Mystery Holiday Discounts

Offer your clients exclusive deals and incentives during the holiday season. Whether it’s a special discount on closing costs or a complimentary home staging service, these mystery offers will create a sense of excitement and urgency among potential buyers.

24. Share a Holiday Homebuyer’s Guide

Provide valuable information to potential homebuyers during the holiday season by sharing a holiday homebuyer’s guide. Include tips on navigating the real estate market during this time, advice on finding the perfect home for the holidays, and insights on financing options. By positioning yourself as a knowledgeable resource, you can build trust with potential buyers and establish yourself as an expert in the industry. The guide can be shared on your website, email newsletters, and social media platforms.

25. Organize a Secret Santa Within Your Brokerage

Real Estate Brokerage Secret Santa Source

A Secret Santa can be a simple but effective way to enhance the culture of your brokerage company. It promotes a favorable atmosphere, strengthens agent relationships, and creates a positive work environment.

Moreover, it can help improve the retention of your top talents and boost morale.

26. Offer Holiday Home Improvement Tips

Help homeowners prepare their homes for the holiday season by offering holiday home improvement tips. Share ideas on decorating their homes, creating a cozy ambiance, and making their spaces more inviting for holiday gatherings. Provide practical advice on DIY projects, affordable decorations, and easy ways to transform their homes.

27. Compile Holiday Mortgage Tips and Local Bank Offers

Share information on how to secure the best interest rates, understand mortgage options and take advantage of special holiday promotions from local banks. By providing this valuable information, you demonstrate your commitment to helping buyers make informed decisions and showcase your expertise in the real estate market.

28. Create a Local Holiday Neighborhood Guide

Neighborhood Update Real Estate Postcard Template from Xara-min Source

Create a local holiday neighborhood guide highlighting your area’s best holiday attractions, events, and traditions. Include information about local light displays, holiday markets, and community celebrations. This guide can be shared on your website, social media, and email newsletters. By showcasing the festive spirit of your neighborhoods, you can attract potential buyers looking for a community with a strong holiday presence.

You can also send the neighborhood’s latest listings.

Conclusion

The holiday season offers a golden opportunity for real estate agents to connect with old and new clients.

Use our creative marketing ideas to make 2023 a year to remember in your real estate career. From personalized gestures to immersive experiences, these real estate holidays marketing strategies will help you stand out.

Let us help you out. Sign up for Xara Cloud, take advantage of our free 14-day trial, and enjoy all our exclusive premium features. Find, customize, and distribute your next lead-generation marketing materials.

Try Our Marketing Center for Real Estate Agents Today!

PS: Happy holidays!

Xara Cloud Customer Review Real Estate Century 21 Mark Dijohn