Beat the Heat: How to Keep Homes Cool (and Cool-Looking) During Showings
Summer showings can be a blessing and a curse—buyers are out in full force, but soaring temperatures can leave a home feeling hot, stuffy, and far from inviting. That’s why successful summer staging isn’t just about looks—it’s about comfort too.
In this post, we’ll share how to help your listing stay cool physically and visually, making buyers want to linger (and fall in love with the space).
1. Temperature Comfort Comes First
No one wants to tour a home that feels like a sauna. When prepping for summer showings:
Turn the A/C on early (don’t wait until the last minute!)
Use ceiling fans or strategically placed tower fans to keep air moving
Close blinds or curtains during the hottest hours to block out heat
Bonus tip: A cool home feels like a refuge from the heat outside, instantly putting buyers in a more relaxed, positive mood.
2. Keep It Light (in Every Way)
Heavy fabrics, dark décor, and cluttered spaces can feel even more overwhelming in summer. Lighten things up with:
Sheer curtains or breezy window treatments that let in soft light
White or light neutral bedding and throws in bedrooms
Slim, simple décor that allows rooms to “breathe”
Visual weight matters—go for a light, fresh, and open aesthetic.
3. Remove Heat-Trapping Items
Certain staging items can actually hold heat and make a room feel warmer. For example:
Thick rugs and carpet runners
Bulky upholstered furniture in tight rooms
Excess pillows and throws
Scale back just enough to feel open and cool without losing the cozy vibe.
4. Use Summer Scents and Freshness
Skip anything too heavy or overly perfumed. Instead, create an atmosphere that smells cool and clean:
Diffuse light citrus, eucalyptus, or cucumber-mint essential oils
Place a bowl of fresh lemons or limes in the kitchen
Keep houseplants fresh and healthy for that “just watered” scent
Bonus: Buyers associate clean, fresh scents with well-maintained homes.
5. Stage With Refreshment in Mind
Make buyers feel like a guest in a summer retreat:
Add a pitcher of cold lemon water or iced tea to the kitchen island
Style a tray on the patio with summer drinks and glasses
Include a folded beach towel or sunhat by a lounge chair outside
These subtle touches sell more than the house—they sell the feeling of summer comfort and hospitality.
The Takeaway
In the summer market, buyers are looking for homes that offer a cool escape from the heat—physically and emotionally. By combining thoughtful staging with climate-conscious strategies, you can make any home feel like a breath of fresh air.
Need help staging your summer listing?
At Key & Co., we specialize in creating homes that feel as good as they look, no matter the season. Let us help you stage to sell—comfortably.
Schedule your staging consultation today and keep your listing cool under pressure.
