I don’t know about you, but home is my favorite place during the holiday season. The warmth of my tree, the candles flickering on the mantle and the scents that say Christmas all on their own. I love having people over and sharing the coziness of the season with friends and family. Having your home on the market over the holidays can be a real challenge and may put a crimp in your holiday traditions, but it doesn’t mean you can’t be festive. Use these tips to help minimize inconveniences and maximize the spirit of the season to sell your home fast.
- Set boundaries. While you certainly don’t want to make it difficult for buyers to come see your home, setting boundaries can give you peace of mind. If you know you will be having your entire family over on Dec. 20, let your realtor know ahead of time. It’s much easier for him or her to have those limitations ahead of time, rather than calling you, you saying “No” and having to go back and forth with the other realtor. Setting a few boundaries allows you to relax and enjoy the most important times.
- Create holiday warmth. This is the year for you to go sophisticated and seasonal in your holiday decorations. Leave the silly Santas and talking snowmen boxed up for another year. Think greenery, tasteful trees and more traditional décor this year. Outside, white lights and garlands, wreaths on the windows, candles on window sills and spotlights create classic, sophisticated looks that will draw buyers in. Simple and tasteful are the key, without going overboard. You want your buyers to still be able to picture themselves in your home during other seasons.
- Engage the senses. There is simply no other season that employs the senses in the same manner as the holidays. Think about the feelings certain scents stir in you, and use them to your advantage within your home. Could you leave cider on the stove during an open house? How about lighting a roaring fire in the fireplace to create instant coziness and warmth? You can also employ holiday-scented candles before showings, but make sure you don’t leave them burning when you go.
- Light it up. Winter is the dreariest of seasons and can provide the least light. Make sure you’ve changed all fixtures and lamps to the highest wattage bulbs possible, and leave them all on when you vacate for showings. Pull up blinds and shades to let in all the natural light you can, too. Well-lit rooms are far more inviting than dark ones.
- Create inviting spots. We all seek warmth during the winter, so exhibit all the perfect spots within your home to cozy up and be snug! Throw a blanket on the hearth, toss a throw over an easy chair and create reading nooks by appropriate staging furniture. When you list with me, I’ll stage your home for free using your furniture. Staging really can make all the difference!
While having your home on the market can be a challenge, there’s certainly no need to cancel Christmas! Take these tips and talk to your realtor about balancing the sale with what’s important to you this holiday season.
If you’re looking for a realtor in the northern Virginia area, contact me! I would love to get to know you, learn about your real estate goals and help you achieve them! Happy holidays!
Warmly,
Marcia
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