By Sean Colón
First Impressions Still Sell Homes, Especially in Arizona’s Fall Market
As Arizona’s summer heat fades and buyers return to the market, one area of a listing can make or break a first impression: the entryway. Whether it’s a front porch in Gilbert or a sleek Scottsdale foyer, this space is the emotional handshake of the home. According to interior designer Andrea Thompson of Drea Design Services, “Not everyone has a porch, but everyone has an entryway. And whether you have one or both, it is essential that each of them creates a moment of immediate, integral interest and pulls a buyer in with its creative and functional possibilities.”
For Arizona Realtors, this detail matters. Local data from ARMLS shows that listings with updated curb appeal and inviting exterior photos receive up to 40% more online clicks than comparable homes without them. In a market where buyers often browse dozens of listings in one sitting, a refreshed entryway can be the visual hook that keeps a home from being scrolled past.
Start with Repairs: Small Fixes, Big Buyer Impact
Before a single pumpkin or potted plant goes out, sellers should handle the basics. Peeling paint, cracked steps, or faded doormats may seem minor, but they can instantly raise red flags about overall maintenance. “A buyer who instantly sees issues like peeling paint, cracked steps, wobbly handrails, or dead plants will assume the rest of the home is as unkempt and in disrepair,” Thompson warns.
In Arizona’s climate, sun exposure and dust can quickly age materials. A quick power wash, a fresh coat of paint on the door, and updated lighting fixtures can completely change a buyer’s perception. For Realtors, recommending these small exterior updates before professional photography can significantly elevate a listing’s presentation, especially during fall, when golden light enhances warm tones naturally.
Design for Emotional Appeal: Subtle Fall Décor that Sells
Tasteful fall decor can really set the tone for buyers this fall.
Fall in Arizona doesn’t mean piles of leaves or heavy decor. The goal is to create a cozy, welcoming mood that photographs well and appeals to the widest pool of buyers. Thompson suggests adding natural elements like potted succulents, neutral wreaths, or textured outdoor rugs. “Neutral but creative always wins,” she says.
Arizona Realtors can guide clients to use décor that fits the desert palette: burnt oranges, muted golds, and soft tans pair beautifully with stucco and natural stone. A few lanterns or soft string lights can create warmth without cluttering the space. And while Halloween displays might be fun, they can quickly turn from festive to distracting. Real estate advisor Lindsay Fanali advises, “Try to keep everything more general, and focus on creating a desirable lifestyle rather than highlighting a specific personality.”
Although fall decor can really impact buyers’ experiences, it’s not necessary to “break the bank” to create that fall-feeling. Search through your storage for those last-year’s-fall-clearance-sale gems from Target or Lowes. Browse discount stores like Ross and TJ Maxx. You may even stumble upon something unique and gently used at your local thrift store.
Why It Matters in Arizona’s 2025 Market
Inventory across Arizona has risen roughly 8% year-over-year, according to recent reports from Phoenix REALTORS®, giving buyers more options and making presentation even more critical. When buyers have choices, they’re drawn to listings that feel like home from the first image.
This is where strategic photography becomes key. An inviting front porch or glowing entryway captured at the right time of day can elevate a listing instantly. Homes that feature strong visual storytelling (especially in the first photo) can generate up to three times more showings than those without strong curb appeal. Realtors who invest in professional photography showcasing these refreshed areas position their listings to attract higher-quality buyers faster.
Transform Curb Appeal into Click Appeal
Just a few touches give an autumn vibe without overdoing it.
As fall listings hit the market, the smartest Arizona Realtors are treating the entryway as more than an afterthought. It’s the emotional bridge between “just browsing” and “this is the one.” Encourage clients to think of the space as a preview of the lifestyle they’re selling: a moment that tells buyers, you’re home.
When it’s time to capture that feeling, the right images make all the difference. If you’re ready to turn your listings’ first impressions into lasting ones, visit SeanColon.com to learn how professional real estate photography can elevate your marketing and attract more motivated buyers this season.
By the way, I help realtors improve their online and social media presence by providing beautiful photos of their listings. That is why I’ve created this FREE HOME PREP LIST for your clients to help your listings look their best. Feel free to share.
Join the Conversation
How do you guide your clients on staging outdoor spaces in fall? Have you noticed listings with better entryways sell faster or attract more showings? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. I’d love to hear how Arizona Realtors are helping homes stand out this season!