Staging Your Home During the Holidays

During the holidays, many sellers always ask me, “How much holiday decorating should I do if I’m trying to sell my house?” So, I wanted to share my home stager guidelines with you if you’re trying to sell your house during the holidays:

     -I always suggest putting a wreath on the door and little white candles in the windows since both are very warm and welcoming (the objective if you’re trying to sell your house).

      -Outdoor lights can be a bonus and can be pretty and attractive, especially at night.  But be careful not to go overboard like Clark Griswold in National Lampoon’s, ”Christmas Vacation.”
           -Don’t put out your blow up Santa and his reindeer in your yard! Put out your holiday “ornaments” next year. 
     -In my opinion, it’s OK to have one Christmas tree or a menorah out during the holiday season, but as soon as the holiday is over, everything should be put away (including the gifts!)

    -Try to keep your holiday decorating to a minimum.  Don’t deck out your house with lots of Santas, nativity scenes and other Christmas or Hanukkah décor.  Keep it simple  - they are very distracting to prospective buyers.  You want them to look at your house, not your decorations.

          -Holiday baking is a plus -- so if you have to bake six dozen chocolate chip cookies, it would be great to do it before the open house (and put a few out for prospective buyers and your realtor).

      Hope these suggestions have helped you if you’re trying to sell your house. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.  Best wishes for wonderful Holiday Season and Happy Decorating!!