When the days get shorter and sunlight is hard to come by, selling your home can feel a little trickier. Gray skies, early sunsets, and chilly weather don’t always show your home in its best light—but with the right touches, you can still make a bright impression.
At The Gresham Group, we know that first impressions matter. In fact, research shows that staged homes sell faster and often for more money—and it’s easy to see why. When a space feels warm, inviting, and easy to imagine living in, buyers connect instantly.
Here are a few tried-and-true tips to help your home stand out this season:
- Clear the clutter.
Less really is more. Clean off countertops, pare down decorations, and remove personal photos so buyers can picture themselves in your space. Even closets and storage areas should look neat and spacious—think half-full, not overflowing. - Light it up.
When daylight is limited, lighting makes all the difference. Use warm LED bulbs, open your curtains wide, and turn on lamps in every room before showings. A mix of overhead, table, and accent lights creates that cozy, welcoming glow buyers love. - Rearrange for warmth and flow.
Try pulling furniture away from walls and creating inviting seating areas that make each room feel purposeful. In bedrooms, use matching lamps or bedding for a calm, hotel-like look. It’s not about filling every corner—it’s about making the space feel open and comfortable. - Create a cozy atmosphere.
Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature, add a few fresh flowers or green plants, and choose subtle scents like vanilla or clean linen. If you have a fireplace, light it for showings—it instantly adds warmth and charm. - Don’t forget the outside.
Most buyers see your home first in the evening, so make sure the front of your home is well-lit and welcoming. Update porch lighting, add path lights, and keep the entryway tidy. A new welcome mat, seasonal wreath, or potted plant goes a long way.
With a few thoughtful updates, you can turn your home into a bright and inviting space, even on the darkest days of the year.
Staging your home properly doesn’t require massive investment, but it does demand attention to detail and willingness to see your home through buyers’ eyes.
Let the season work for you, along with the right staging strategy.
Tips of the Trade
It’s fireplace season! Before you light that first fire, take a moment to make sure everything’s safe and ready for cozy nights ahead. We caught up with Kobel Chimney for a quick Q&A to help homeowners stay confident and worry-free this winter.
- What are the signs that a chimney might be unsafe to use, even if everything “looks” fine from the outside? Crumbling or cracked bricks, deteriorating mortar, or a leaning structure are clear warning signs. But don’t ignore strange odors—unusual smells can indicate hidden moisture, creosote buildup, or even animal nests inside the flue.
- Do modern fireplaces still require the same level of chimney care as older homes? Absolutely. Whether your home is brand new or decades old, annual chimney inspections and cleanings are essential. Routine maintenance prevents dangerous buildup and ensures your system is venting properly.
- What are the most common chimney issues you see? In the fall and winter, we most often deal with creosote buildup, blockages from leaves or nesting animals, and moisture damage from cracked or deteriorating masonry.
- Any other tips for homeowners? Schedule a professional inspection before your first fire of the season, and keep your damper closed when not in use to prevent drafts. A little attention now goes a long way toward safety, efficiency, and peace of mind all winter long.
Contact Kobel Chimney
info@kobelchimneyrepair.com
(816) 356-5966
Celebrating 25 Years of Kansas City Real Estate
This year, The Gresham Group proudly celebrates 25 years of serving Kansas City real estate — a milestone built on trust, relationships, and a deep love for helping people find their place in this incredible city.
From our very first listings to the thousands of happy homeowners we’ve helped since, it’s been our privilege to be part of so many life chapters — first homes, dream homes, and everything in between.
”For 25 years it has been my honor and privilege to hire, train, and work with some of the very best Realtors the Kansas City area has ever seen. The Gresham Group has always maintained the highest standards of professionalism and commitment to our valued clients, and we will continue to do so.
Bob Gresham, Founder
Built on People, Fueled by Purpose
Real estate is more than contracts and closings — it’s about people.
Over the past 25 years, we’ve had the joy of walking alongside clients through every stage of life.
“We LOVE our clients! Kansas City area homebuyers and sellers are AMAZING! We find so much joy and fulfillment in being a small part of so many people’s lives. Our clients are much more than just names and addresses. Over 25 years, many have become true friends. We’ve watched people get married, grow their families, make great investments, retire, and downsize — all through market highs and lows. Life may be difficult at times, but our clients know they can ALWAYS count on The Gresham Group to be in their corner.”
— Bob Gresham
Memories That Make It Meaningful
We’ve built more than a business — we’ve built a community. Along the way, we’ve shared countless memories and traditions that remind us why we do what we do:
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Helped thousands of Kansas City families find their perfect home
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Enjoyed annual team retreats, lake trips, and holiday celebrations
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Supported local organizations and charities, including Ronald McDonald House Charities
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Welcomed new team members who have become lifelong friends
“The 25 years of great times with the team members that have become as much a family as any I have ever known — the trips, events, and gatherings — are some of the most fond memories in my life. Honestly, working with such fantastic, hardworking professionals who truly love serving their clients, year in and year out, has been a life well lived. I could not ask for more.”
— Bob Gresham
Thank You, Kansas City
As we celebrate this milestone, our hearts are full of gratitude — for the clients who trusted us, the team members who built with us, and the community that continues to inspire us.
Here’s to the next 25 years of helping Kansas City move forward, one home at a time.
Sips of the Season
The leaves are falling, the sweaters are layering, and the coffee? It’s officially at its coziest.
A great local coffee shop can make all the difference with your home buying or selling journey. We rounded up a few neighborhood spots across the KC area, perfect for working, unwinding, or sipping your way through a fall afternoon.
Each one has its own charm, flavor, and vibe, just like your dream home.
Cafe Equinox
7036 Nieman Road
Shawnee, KS 66203
Sip your latte in a literal greenhouse. This dreamy coffee spot inside Family Tree Nursery is a full sensory reset.
Random’s Coffee
414 Main Street
Belton, MO 64012
A quirky, community-driven coffee shop where every visit feels like hanging out in your cool friend’s living room.
Bear Necessities
9609 West 87th Street
Overland Park, KS 66212
Lattes, cappuccinos, americanos, OH MY! A cozy little corner of OP with killer coffee, and the warmth that makes you want to stay a while.
Protect Your Home This Fall
Outdoor Must-Do’s Before KC Winter Hits
Kansas City’s weather can turn quickly in November — sunny one week, snow the next. Taking care of a few key outdoor tasks now can save you thousands later and keep your home safe and winter-ready.
Here are high-impact maintenance jobs to tackle this month before cold weather locks them in:
Gutters & Downspouts
All those beautiful fall leaves? They’re clogging your gutters. Blocked gutters cause water overflow, roof leaks, and even foundation damage when temperatures drop and ice builds up.
Quick Tip: After clearing out debris, flush downspouts with a hose to make sure water flows freely.
Roof
Your roof takes the brunt of winter weather. Do a visual inspection from the ground (binoculars help!) and look for missing shingles, damaged flashing, or debris buildup in roof valleys.
Selling soon? Take photos of any issues or hire a roofer for a quick inspection. Buyers will ask — be prepared.
Overhanging & Dead Branches
Kansas City is no stranger to ice storms. Snow and ice can weigh down weak branches, causing them to snap and damage your roof, siding, or power lines.
Safety First: Trim branches away from the house and walkways. Call a pro for anything too high or close to power lines.
Lawn Tools
Once your yard is cleaned up, don’t forget to winterize your tools. Rinse off dirt, oil metal parts, and store everything in a dry place. Add fuel stabilizer to gas-powered tools like leaf blowers or mowers before storing.
Bonus Tip: This is also a great time to organize your garage or shed before winter makes it miserable.
Navigating the Homebuying Process Over the Holidays
The holiday season might not seem like the ideal time to buy a home, but it can actually present some surprising advantages. With fewer buyers searching and many sellers motivated to close before the new year, late fall and winter can offer opportunities for those willing to stay active in the market.
Here’s what to keep in mind if you’re navigating the homebuying process during the holidays:
- Market activity slows—but opportunities remain.
Many buyers step back during November and December, which means less competition. Homes that stay on the market longer may be more negotiable, and showings are often less crowded. While inventory may be smaller, serious buyers and sellers tend to find each other more easily this time of year. - Sellers are often more motivated.
Homeowners who list during the holidays usually have a reason to move—relocation, downsizing, or tax timing. This motivation can translate to more flexibility on price, repairs, or closing dates. - Planning and timing matter more.
With lenders, inspectors, and title companies operating on limited holiday schedules, organization is key. It helps to start the pre-approval process early, have documentation ready, and be proactive in scheduling showings and appointments. - Seasonal conditions reveal a lot.
Winter weather can highlight details you might not notice in spring—like how well a home is insulated, whether windows seal properly, or how efficient the heating system is. It’s also a chance to see how the neighborhood feels during quieter months. - Stay focused on long-term goals.
It can be tempting to rush a purchase to “be in by the holidays,” but patience pays off. Take time to review each home carefully and think beyond the season—consider commute times, maintenance needs, and how the space will fit your lifestyle year-round.
Buying a home during the holidays requires a bit more coordination and attention to detail, but it can be a rewarding experience. With realistic expectations, a clear plan, and a steady pace, you can navigate the process confidently and take advantage of the quieter winter market.
Question of the Month
As we move deeper into fall and the days continue to shorten, one of the biggest challenges our sellers face is showcasing their homes in the best possible light—literally. With sunset now arriving before many potential buyers even leave work, most showings are happening during those dimmer hours when natural light is scarce or completely absent. We know from experience that lighting can make or break a buyer’s first impression, affecting everything from how spacious rooms appear to the overall emotional connection buyers feel with a property. Dark corners, shadowy hallways, and poorly lit spaces can cause buyers to overlook a home’s best features or, worse, create concerns about the property that don’t actually exist. This month, we’re addressing this seasonal challenge head-on with our realtors. Whether it’s creative lighting solutions, staging techniques, or timing strategies that have worked for listings, these insights will help better serve sellers during these darker months.
How do you recommend sellers compensate for limited natural light during showings?
- Lisa Ferguson: I feel the best way to brighten a room with limited natural light is to paint with light colors, add sufficient overhead lighting, and place mirrors where possible to reflect the bright walls.
- Afton Kateusz: For showings and photos of your home, sellers should have all lamps turned on or buy extra lamps. Open the shades to let in as much natural light. Change out light bulbs to bright white.
Creating Seasonal Curb Appeal
As the vibrant hues of autumn fade into the quiet beauty of winter, many homeowners assume it’s time to take a break from exterior maintenance and curb appeal. But in reality, the cooler months offer a wonderful opportunity to refresh your home’s look and embrace the season in style.
From festive porch touches to smart landscape prep, there are plenty of ways to keep your home welcoming and well-cared for all season long. Before you settle in for cozy weekends and holiday fun, check out these simple ideas for maintaining charm and curb appeal through fall and winter.
One of the biggest transitions this time of year happens in your landscaping. As plants shed their leaves and your yard settles into dormancy, it’s important to understand how your specific trees, shrubs, and groundcover respond to colder temperatures. If you’re unsure how certain plants will behave, consider reaching out to a local nursery or landscape professional — they can offer insight into seasonal care, pruning, and replacement options to keep your home looking its best.
Fall Accents
- Pumpkins: Place pumpkins and gourds of differing sizes on porch steps. If you’re not into orange, spray paint pumpkins in shades that compliment your home’s exterior. In warmer climates, consider using artificial pumpkins to avoid rot.
- Straw bales: Use rectangle bales to add tiers to front door decor. Place decorative lanterns, baskets, or harvest items on top.
- Wreaths: Grapevine and burlap wreaths are a hardy and easily-stored option for subtle fall charm. Change the greenery or florals as you see fit throughout the season.
- Garlands: Drape a garland over front porch windows; this buffalo plaid option would transition nicely from Halloween to Christmas.
- Planters: Galvanized tin planters provide lightweight durability and an extra bit of shine. Fill with marigolds or cut sunflowers for a cheery fall look.
Winter Decor
- Wreaths: A eucalyptus wreath adds a consistent basis of greenery that can be enhanced with colorful ribbon during the holidays. Add natural sprigs to treat guests to a pleasant aroma upon arrival.
- Topiaries: Natural or artificial evergreen topiaries provide a great foundation for holiday decorations and can be left up sans-decor throughout the winter months.
- Extra lighting: Add some twinkle branches for a glow that lasts all season.
- Blankets: Place an outdoor blanket over your porch bench or rockers for extra color and coziness.
- Garlands: Hang a basic green garland over the front door, and add small ornaments during the holidays. This long needle option features tiny LED lights.
Why Winter Might Be the Perfect Time to Sell Your Home
Homes sold with the help of a real estate agent typically net sellers 17-20% more than homes sold on their own. That’s a significant difference that could mean thousands more in your pocket! Why? Because agents bring expert negotiation skills, marketing savvy, and a deep understanding of the local market — all crucial to maximizing your sale price.
It’s a common belief that winter is the worst time to sell a home—but that assumption doesn’t hold up the way it once did. While spring and summer bring more listings and foot traffic, winter offers its own quiet advantages that can make it a surprisingly strong season for sellers.
The housing market doesn’t truly stop for the weather anymore. Many buyers today are motivated by life changes—new jobs, relocations, or the need for more space—and those decisions don’t follow a seasonal schedule. When fewer homes are available, serious buyers stand out, and they’re often ready to make firm, timely offers.
One of the biggest benefits of selling in the winter is visibility. With fewer homes on the market, your property won’t have to compete with dozens of new listings launching every week. Buyers scrolling through online listings or visiting open houses have fewer options to compare, which naturally brings more attention to the homes that are available.
There’s also an emotional element at play during the colder months. Homes tend to feel cozier and more inviting when staged well—soft lighting, warm textures, and simple seasonal touches can make a strong impression. The atmosphere itself helps buyers imagine what it would feel like to spend winter holidays or quiet evenings in the space, creating an emotional connection that’s harder to replicate during busier, high-traffic months.
Logistically, winter sales can also move more efficiently. With a smaller volume of transactions, inspectors, appraisers, and lenders often have more flexible availability. Buyers and sellers alike can experience smoother timelines and less scheduling congestion compared to peak season.
Of course, preparation still matters. Good lighting, tidy outdoor walkways, and clear, inviting photos go a long way toward showcasing your home in its best light. But the myth that homes can’t sell in the winter overlooks an important truth: motivated buyers are active year-round, and the right presentation can make your home stand out even more when the market quiets down.
Rather than waiting for the traditional “spring rush,” many homeowners find that winter offers a moment of calm—a time when serious buyers are still looking, and a well-prepared home can shine in a season that many underestimate.
Ways to be Thankful to your Realtor
It’s officially gratitude season and while we’re passing the mashed potatoes and counting our blessings, don’t forget the person who helped you find home in the first place.
They helped you seal the deal on your dream house or hustled to get your place sold before the holidays, here are some fun ways to show your realtor some love this season:
- Leave a 5-star review – It’s like a pumpkin pie for their business (sweet and highly appreciated).
- Send a handwritten note – Quick, thoughtful, and way better than a text.
- Tag them in a cozy “home sweet home” pic on social – bonus points for pets or pumpkins.
- Refer them to a friend or neighbor – the ultimate compliment.
- Drop off a little gift – coffee card, seasonal candle, or even a homey baked good.
- Give a home-related keepsake – think custom address stamp, framed photo, or ornament.
- Invite them to your housewarming or Friendsgiving
- Share their contact in your neighborhood Facebook group
- Shoot them a quick check-in — a “still loving the house!” text is always a win.
This season, gratitude goes beyond the dinner table. Recognize the people who’ve helped make your house a home. Whether your realtor was your guide, your advocate, or your late-night text responder during a wild escrow, a small thank-you can go a long way.
Thoughtful gestures to simple shoutouts, showing appreciation doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful. So go ahead and spread a little real estate cheer. After all, a happy homeowner is the best thank-you there is.
Around the Table
Gather ‘round! Our November “Around the Table” playlist is all about cozy evenings, good company, and the feeling of home.
From family dinners to fireside chats, press play and settle in for the season.
Light up your heart in Kansas City
The holidays are here and with them come twinkling lights, joyful gatherings, and the magic that makes Kansas City shine a little brighter. This beautiful tradition is a gentle reminder that the brightest moments come not just from the glow of holiday lights, but from the togetherness, kindness, and shared joy that fill the season.
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, these shimmering celebrations invite us to pause, reflect, and connect — to find peace in community and hope in new beginnings.
Explore some of our favorite KC-area tree lightings and family festivities below:
- Christmas in the Park: Longview Lake – Wednesday, November 26 – Wednesday, December 31
- Downtown Lee’s Summit: Mayor’s Tree Lighting – Friday, November 21
- Mayor’s Tree Lighting: Belton – Saturday, November 26
- Downtown Overland Park: Mayor’s Holiday Festival – Friday, November 15
- Shawnee Christkindl Market – Wednesday, November 13
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Buying and selling a house is an emotional process. Our agents are here to be your trusted advisor and lifelong friend. We’re dedicated to the people of Kansas and Missouri and believe everyone should be able to find home.
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