Sell Well and have a (New) Home for the Holidays
by Joshua Suess • photography by Ted Dayton
The holiday season is approaching and homeowners are under the impression that it's one of the worst times to sell. In fact, it's the exact opposite!

While it may be true that there will be fewer buyers, the reality is that the quality of those buyers will be superior. Motivated home buyers are what you will typically find during the holidays, combined with much less competition among home sellers. Most either remove their homes from the market this time of year or wait until after the holiday season.

How do you balance trying to sell your home with all of the festivities common during this time? The most challenging aspect will be learning that the way you live and the way you sell are two different worlds.

You can still show your holiday spirit with some seasonal decor, but you do need to keep decorations light, tasteful and neutral while your home is on the market. Less is more.

You will want to give careful consideration before pulling out any of your annual decorations. Most holiday paraphernalia will detract from the size and selling features of your home, which could potentially cost you time and money.

For instance, a large Christmas tree will often make any living room or family room appear half the size. Wrapping a beautiful staircase banister in lit garland may take away from the beauty of the hardwood or wrought iron. Bowls of candy will quickly take up the much-desired counter space that buyers look for, and may hide beautiful granite or tile counters.

You want to showcase your home and accentuate the selling points for the buyer. Buyers want a turn-key home and sometimes can't see through any visual obstacles, so you want to paint the perfect picture for them.

The majority of home sellers don't follow these tips when selling during the holidays. Use this to your advantage in order to become the number-one best positioned home in terms of condition and you will surely sell your home quickly and for top dollar.

Keep it simple and clean this year so that next holiday season, you can decorate your new home however you'd like.
Joshua Suess is with the Suess Home Selling Team at Re/Max 702-4640 www.suesssellshomes.com

Holiday Selling Tips to Remember
by Jennifer Thompson
The holiday season can bring festive cheer when selling or buying a home!

•When selling your home during the holiday season, stick to the basics of decor by keeping it simple, anonymous and appropriate.

•Try to avoid decorations that diminish the key selling points of your home. The visualization of decorations, when done tastefully, helps buyers see the potential in your property. Simple and elegant decorating techniques will appeal to a broader audience of buyers.

•Don't forget to focus on curb appeal. A simple door wreath or garland can make a festive statement and leave a lasting first impression.

•Remember to put all holiday decorations away by the New Year.
Jennifer Thompson is a Realtor® with Regal Realty of California 295-8715 www.regalrealtyca.com