While the holiday season is a hectic time to show and sell your house, there
are distinct advantages to staging and showing your home during the
holidays - you have a chance to show your home at its very best, adorned
with warmth and cheer sure to charm.
Nothing is more inviting than a home brimming with greenery, twinkling
lights and holiday decorations.
So as you set out to win over a holiday homebuyer during this traditionally
slow time of the year, keep the following in mind as you prepare to show
your house:
Curb appeal. First impressions are important. If you live in a snowy area,
make sure walkways are cleared. Or if late fall leaves are littering the
ground, be sure to clear them away. Also make sure the path to the stairs is
free from ice.
A few exterior holiday lights or decorations shows pride in ownership and
seasonal cheer, but keep in mind that while exterior lights are beautiful at
night, they don't add anything during the day when potential homebuyers will
be looking at your home, so you don't want to overdo it. Another thing to
consider: would-be buyers may view it favorably if the homes are brimming
with lights - it shows unity and neighborliness - so you'll want to find a
tasteful balance.
Trim outdoor trees so unexpected winds don't knock down branches that
could damage your home or hurt anybody.
Place a nice welcome holiday mat outside your front door.
Make sure your door area is clear from bicycles, toys or parcels left by
the mail carrier.
Hang a festive wreath on your door.
Play holiday music in the background.
Keep the house cozy. Entering a cold house could leave a lasting chilling
impression. Instead, set the thermostat at a comfortable temperature.
A toasty fire. If you're only stepping out while an agent is showing your
house, start a fire in the fireplace. Nothing says home more than a nice
cozy fire. But never leave a fire unattended.
Your tree. This year you'll need to think about your tree more than you
usually do. For starters, if your house is on the small side, get a smaller
tree. You don't want the tree to appear to take over the entire living or
family room. Likewise, you don't want to cram too much furniture into a room
just to get the tree to fit. Remove furniture if necessary.
Keep decorations on the conservative side. Not all home shoppers may
celebrate the holidays in the manner you do. You don't want to overwhelm
anybody with abundant displays of holiday cheer. You want your house to be
noticed, not your decorations.
If your house is being viewed in the evening, let your agent know which
tree and other holiday lights should be turned on. And be sure the agent
turns the lights off or you have a plan to be home immediately following the
showing.
Bake holiday cookies and treats often. The enticing smell will be welcome
to those viewing your house.
Be especially careful about ensuring your home security system is turned
back on after agents show your house, especially if you have gifts under the
tree.
Windows. Make sure your windows are sparkling clean.
Let the light in. Open blinds and curtains and turn on interior lights to
reduce the dreary lighting that pervades in the dark winter months.
Leave some holiday treats and hot chocolate for your guests.
Finally, keep in mind that the holiday adornments should accent - not
dominate - the house. You want to convey the love, comfort, and joy your
family has shared in the house. If conveyed successfully, a new family will
be anxious to move in and carve out their own holiday memories.
Published: December 3, 2002
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