The calendar may still say summer, but pumpkin-spice season has already arrived. Coffee shops are serving fall drinks, stores are filling their shelves with pumpkins and cinnamon-scented candles, and some people are ready to pull out the fall decorations before the first leaf has even changed color.
But is September too early to make your home feel like fall?
I say no—but you don’t have to cover every surface with pumpkins just yet!
When Does Fall Decorating Season Begin?
There really isn’t one official date when everyone should begin decorating for fall. Some people are ready as soon as September arrives. Others prefer to wait until the first official day of fall, which is September 22 this year. Then there are those who wait until the weather finally starts feeling like fall—which can take a little longer here in Maryland.
My opinion? If fall makes you happy, start adding a few seasonal touches whenever you’re ready. Your home should be a place that feels good to you.
Start With Warm and Cozy Touches
September is a wonderful time to begin transitioning your home without going straight into full pumpkin mode.
Try making a few simple changes:
- Add a soft throw blanket to the sofa or your favorite chair.
- Bring in warm colors such as rust, gold, deep green, or burgundy.
- Change lightweight summer pillows for richer colors and textures.
- Place a simple fall wreath on the front door.
- Add a bowl of apples, pears, or small pumpkins to the kitchen.
- Bring out a cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin-spice candle.
You don’t have to redecorate the entire house. Just a few small touches can make your home feel warmer and more inviting.
Don’t Forget the Front Porch
Your front porch is one of the easiest places to welcome the season. A fall wreath, a colorful mum, and one or two pumpkins can create a beautiful entrance without taking much time or money.
As we get closer to October, you can always add more. During September, simple decorations can help your home move gently from summer into fall.
What If You’re Selling Your Home?
Fall décor can make a house feel warm, comfortable, and welcoming to potential buyers—but moderation is important.
If your home is on the market, decorations should complement the house rather than become the main attraction. Buyers still need to notice the room sizes, natural light, countertops, and other features that make your home special.
A tasteful wreath, cozy throw, or simple seasonal centerpiece can create the right feeling. Too many decorations may make rooms appear smaller, hide important features, and distract buyers from the home itself.
If you’re preparing for listing photographs, remember that those pictures may remain online after the season changes. Keeping the decorations simple will help your photographs stay fresh longer.
So, Is It Too Early for Pumpkin Spice?
Not in my book!
September is a transition month. We may still have some warm days ahead, but there is nothing wrong with bringing a little fall warmth into your home now. Start slowly, choose the things you love, and let your decorations grow along with the season.
Now I want to know: When does pumpkin-spice season officially begin at your house? Are you decorating already, waiting for the first day of fall, or holding onto summer for as long as possible?
Whether you’re enjoying the season in your current home or thinking about making a move, I’m always here to help.
Lynn Nichols, REALTOR®
KW Flagship
Win With Lynn—the Dancing Realtor
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