DECK YOUR HALLS FOR SELLING: Staging during the holidays

‘Tis the season for many things: snow, entertaining, baking, and wrapping presents, and for some, it also means selling their home! When the holiday festivities rev up the real estate market may slow down. But don’t despair, the good news it that those who are looking to buy during this time are serious! Setting the right mood can get buyers eager to get into your home to create their own holiday memories and keep you in the spirit of the season.

Here are some tips to keep your home both holiday friendly and stage worthy:

Less is always more:  The cardinal rule of staging is to edit and the same goes for holiday decorations. Pare down and remove anything that doesn’t need to be there to properly showcase the beauty of your home. This year skip the nine-foot tall inflatable lawn Santa or reduce the display of your extensive nutcracker collection to one. Remember, you still want your home to look as spacious as possible and your usual holiday traditions can always be renewed in your new home!

No need to be a Scrooge: Before you fall into a Grinch-like sulk, selling your home doesn’t mean you have to pretend the holidays aren’t here.  A few strategically placed decorations that are complimentary to your décor can help showcase your home’s best features. Try and stay non-religious as to appeal to as many buyers as possible. A reindeer, a centerpiece of pine cones or a sprig of holly rarely offends. If you are in doubt with a décor item then leave it out!

Curb appeal is still important: The weather outside may be frightful and potential buyers may rush inside to escape the frigid air but you can be sure that they will notice everything as they pull up. Keep the driveway, porches and stairs free of snow and salted (if a potential buyer slips and falls before they even reach the front door – it’s unlikely they will get a “good vibe” from your place.) Also, investing in a fresh wreath, new doormat or some greenery to your urns is a good call.

Make inside delightful: A cozy home is a sold home! Add some mulled cider to a pan and let it simmer on the stove before showings to appeal to buyers’ senses. Always light the fireplace and try adding a cable-knit throw rug to your sofa to create a warm, welcoming feeling.

These are just a few ideas to help potential buyers feel relaxed, excited and, of course, ready to move in!