Ho. Ho. Ho. It's that time of year! The trees are up and lights are strung. The menorah is set on the windowsill. The mistletoe is dangling. Hot cocoa in hand. Chestnuts roasting. What a time to be alive. I'm not sure about others but I personally LOVE decorating for the holidays. It looks like Christmas threw up in my house. For those of you trying to sell your home during this magical time of year, I've put together a few tips to keep in mind.
First of all, just because you are trying to sell your home and having people tour your house regularly, doesn't mean you can't decorate. But in my opinion, less is more.
Your house needs to be staged to show BEFORE you add the decorations. A cluttered family room with knick knacks is going to look busier with tinsel on top. De-clutter before hand and you can still add that nutcracker on the mantle.
Subtle touches are key. Don't go overboard with Santa and Rudolph figurines. A cozy, holiday vibe can still be achieved with a simple wreath, a holiday candle burning, and a decorative bowl with pine cones.
Don't cover the highlights of your home. If you have a beautiful bay window with a view, don't stack a menorah on the sill to obstruct the view. If you have a cool, gray/blue vibe throughout the home, don't add harsh red and green decor. Maybe white or silver would be a better fit for your holiday color scheme.
Outside the home is important as well. This is the first impression a buyer has. Perhaps skip the inflatable reindeer this year and opt for a simple strand of lights, wreaths and a nice spotlight on the door. Don't be the Clark Griswold of the neighborhood, despite the yearning inside of you! Also try to keep the religious aspect of the holidays minimal. Although that is the BASE of the holidays, you want buyers to keep an open mind when touring your home and be able to visualize themselves spending the holiday in your space, regardless their religious beliefs.
I really do believe simplicity is key when it comes to decorating for the holidays and simultaneously trying to sell your home. Obviously you want to enjoy your potential last holiday in your home. But try to keep your eye on prize. Sell that house! Happy Holidays!
