So, you decided to move forward and be one of the few brave, yet determined souls to have their home listed for sale over the holidays. Good for you. There are a few more tips we can point out to make everything run smoother for you. Ready?!

1.    Shovel, shovel, shovel. You cannot expect people to entertain looking at your house if they can’t even get to the front door. How can they appreciate your view if the deck or patio is piled three feet high with fluffy white stuff? In fact, the driveway, front walkway, and back deck or patio need to be meticulously maintained when you r home is on the market. If you cannot live up to that requirement, hire someone who can do it for you.  

2.    Yes. It is the holidays. You are allowed to put up your decorations and celebrate one last time. You just need to do it in a subtle, restrained manner. Do not spread the cheer into every single room and bath. Do not put a life-size, 72-piece nativity in your front yard. Do not try to beat the Griswald family holiday light record. Try to stick with just one tree and maybe a welcoming wreath on the front door. You do not want to overwhelm your visitors with your memories when they need to imagine their own.

3.    If you want to have a holiday gathering, it is perfectly acceptable to inform your agent that you can’t accommodate showings on a particular day, so you can plan, prepare and enjoy. Cut yourself a little slack and enjoy the holidays. Get your mind off the house for one night but clean up and get back at it in the a.m.