The hectic holiday season is in full swing. The shindig begins at Thanksgiving and continues through to New Year’s Day. If you’re attempting to sell your home in the midst of all the festivities, you’ve got your work cut out for you. Between the parties, the cleaning and the showings, it’s enough to make your head spin. You’ll be busy. You’ll also be especially grateful for these holiday hacks, to take the “daze” out of the holidays this season.
Top 8 Holiday Hacks
- Fake It!
Who says you have to slave away at the stove all day? Order a pre-cooked turkey to take the pressure off. (NOTE: Depending on where you go for your gobbler, you’ll need to place your order a few weeks in advance. If you haven’t done this by now, the pressure’s back on.)
2. Make it a Team Effort
Go potluck and ask guests to bring an appetizer, side-dish, dessert or wine. Be specific as to what you’d like guests to bring to avoid three mashed-potato dishes. (Whew! Pressure’s off again.)
3. Preliminary Prep
Some side dishes and desserts can be made a day or two in advance, freeing up some time – and stovetop – for the main course on the day of.
4. Buffet or Bust!
Set up your holiday meal buffet-style, and let your guests serve themselves. That’s one thing you can cross off your to-do list on party day.
5. Keep it Cozy
We’ll keep this one short and sweet – by “cozy,” we mean small. An intimate dinner party means less prep work beforehand and less mess afterwards.
6. Hire a Cleaning Service
No matter how you slice it (pun intended), there will definitely be some mess to tackle post-party. Bring in the pros to take on the scrubbing, sweeping, wiping and washing. It’s worth the cost – especially if you’re having showings or an open house in the near future.
7. Go Out!
There will be times when you just have to say “no.” No to cooking, cleaning and hosting at home. Consider having a holiday feast at a restaurant, and indulge yourself as much as your guests. Just be sure to make a reservation well in advance!
8. Welcome “Home”
There’s something about the holiday season that simply screams “welcome!” This bodes well for sellers. Take advantage of the flickering fireplace, the pumpkin-spice aromas, and the general coziness from the chill outside to make potential buyers feel right at home.
You’re welcome. Happy holidays, from our RE/MAX family to yours.
