We need to have a talk. You know those gaudy holiday decorations you put up each year? It's time to scale back.

The key is to keep it simple while still being festive. Why not go overboard? You have neighbors. You may also have neighbors who are attempting to sell their home and the last thing they need is a Caesar's Palace next door (aka your lit up Christmas house).

This isn't to say that you can't put up your favorite lights or decorations, but be sure that whatever you do is tasteful.

If your holiday decor radar is broken and you're not sure what constitutes "tasteful", then be sure to consult the latest Oprah or Martha Stewart Living magazines. Their holiday issues generally have great pictorial examples of what festive should look like! If you need a further cue be sure to take a look at what your neighbors themselves are doing. Are they putting up just a few lights or window decorations? This just means you might want to take your musical light display down a few notches!

What if your entire neighborhood loves going overboard with decorations? In this case, it's probably fine to feed your habit.

Showing a little holiday cheer is actually good for the neighborhood. It can breed a sense of community and fellowship. Many people love the holiday season, including homebuyers, and like to know their neighbors have taken a little extra time to show some cheer! A simple way to show your neighbors a little holiday cheer is to hang a wreath. Poinsettias on porches or in windows can also add a classy charm. Lights done right can even help showcase your home! Use simple, plain colored lights to frame windows, doors, and rooflines. Use mesh light sets to light up well-manicured shrubbery!

Keeping the inside of your home tasteful is especially important when your home is listed for sale. Many buyers may not share your same faith or enthusiasm for decor, so while having Fall or Christmas colored tablecloths or candles is perfectly fine, you may want to keep other decor to a minimum.

A Christmas tree is fine, but consider keeping the knick-knacks, stuffed Santas, and snow globe collection boxed this year. If you must have your traditional decor on display then be ready to temporarily box it up during showings.

The bottom line is the holidays are a great time to share in the cheer of the season, but there's a fine line between cheer and "oh dear." Take a cue from decorating experts and neighbors and you'll be sure to do fine!

Published: November 3, 2011

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Carla Hill, M.A., works on the Realty Times staff as Managing Editor for our online publication. She also is Producer for the real estate news channel, seen daily on RealtyTimes.com and on video newsletters nationwide.