This year in many stores, you could shop for Halloween costumes and Christmas lights simultaneously. Every year the transition from one holiday to the next happens faster and faster. The only thing transitioning quicker than the holidays are homes going on and off the market. This presents special circumstances for those hoping to buy or sell in November or December, particularly for sellers.
Everyone's top question about holiday selling involves decorations. So here are a few decor tips when selling your home during the holiday season.
Decorations are expected at this time of the year and can actually help in selling your home. Whether you string lights and garland or simply decorate a tree, you want to create an ambiance that not only you want to celebrate in, but also one a prospective buyer can envision celebrating in.
With holiday decor, including everything from the sights to the smells, the key is using the less is more approach. Classic and simple decorations give a festive feel to your home, without cluttering or overwhelming the living space.
Speaking of clutter, be sure to keep your home neat. Tidiness is always appropriate when trying to sell a home, even more during the holidays. This may not be the year to display every holiday figurine, plate or pillow you have. This applies to your yard, too. While children love inflatable Santas and snow globes, it is best to skip those this year to allow for a full, unobstructed view of your home.
If you will be having an open house, go beyond the visual to engage visitors' other senses by making good use of smell and sound. Stick to softer, seasonal scents such as freshly baked cookies, mulled cider or a simple fresh aroma. Avoid too many strong or competing smells. Entertain your guests with soft music. Let the Internet play DJ for you by using a playlist from Spotify or Apple Music.
While you want to create a warm and inviting holiday environment, don't forget that prospective buyers also need to know what your home looks like on an average day. Your Realtor will want to include photos of your home without holiday decor when listing your home.
The right mix of holiday decorations and cheer can mean you'll be celebrating holidays in a new home next year. Reach out to your Realtor today to discuss your holiday selling options.
Cindy Stanton is president of the Greater Nashville Association of Realtors. Contact her at 615-482-2224 or cindy@cindystanton.com.
http://www.realtyexecutives.com/Office/Oceanside/Selling/
