Staging Tips When Selling During the Holidays

The Christmas Holidays is the perfect time for the over-the-top and outlandish décor! The more the merrier as they say.  But how much is too much when selling during the holidays? If you’re selling this Holiday Season, you might want to keep some of those holiday décors in the box for now and just use it in your new house next year.  Too many holiday decorations are a BIG TURN-OFF for your potential buyers.  Here are few more tips to help you:

• Remove those big inflatable Santas, Rudolfs, and the snow-men from the street-view of your property. These are big distractions that can ruin your home’s curb appeal. Instead, use a festive wreath with a large  bow on the front door.  Simple, yet very appealing.

• For better curb appeal and safety during house showings, keep walkways and driveways salted and free of snow. You want to make the home look like it’s been maintained.  If you’re away frequently or live in an area that’s subject to bad weather, it helps to hire a service to regularly salt or shovel the driveway and sidewalks.

• Simplify the decorations. You still want the features of the home to be highlighted, not the holiday décor.  Go easy on your mantle (if you have one); too much stuff on your mantle can make it look cluttered and unappealing for buyers.

• Keep holiday décor non-denominational.  Potential buyers may not celebrate the holidays the same way you do. Pack away nativity scenes this year and appeal to all. Replace it with a holiday floral arrangement instead.

• Use a smaller or a skinny, tall, Christmas Tree. It is important to show the spaciousness of a home.  Avoid big trees that takes way too much space and avoid a multitude of different colored lighting. Tuck cords and cables away, where possible.

• Consider 1 or 2 (tops) color scheme. More than 2 colors can be overwhelming, especially in a small space.

• Lastly, adjust your home’s thermostat to a warmer temperature to make it welcoming. Always remember that buyers who come in and aren’t comfortable won’t stay long. If you have a gas fireplace, turning it on right before the showing, this can give the house a little ambiance.