Should home sellers decorate for Easter?

At this time of year, my clients who have listed their homes with me always ask if home sellers decorating for Easter is a good idea. Before I answer that question, let me explain the purpose of staging your home: to improve the home’s appearance to sell it more quickly and for the highest possible price. And now my answer – YES! As long as you don’t go overboard, feel free to set out a few small low-key Easter themed decorations (ie: a topiary with colored eggs and a wreath on the front door with colored eggs). As Easter gets closer, there will probably be a few other things as well, especially for those with small children who enjoy “decorating” for holidays. Try and stay away from anything associated with religion as that could be a turnoff to any buyers that don’t celebrate Easter. Religious displays limit the appeal. Think about the family that will buy your home. They might have kids, too, and your simple decorations will allow them to picture themselves in that house because the decorations will make your house feel like a cozy home. Just remember as soon as the holiday is over, take them down immediately. Nothing is a bigger turn off to buyers than seeing holiday decorations hanging weeks after the holiday has passed. It’s like putting up a sign that says we are lazy. In a buyer’s mind expired decorations equate to “We do not take care of the stuff we have, including the house!” And please remember: don’t let the listing pictures be taken with any decorations in place.I am still seeing Christmas decorations in house photos, and it’s April. It screams “This is an old listing!” Meantime, here are a few tips that will make your home more appealing to potential homebuyers any time of the year. Make sure to do them just before each showing and open house. 1)    Make sure your home is well lit, turn on all lamps and overhead lights. 2)    Make sure all window treatments are open to let in as much natural light as possible. 3)    Burn a candle or bake some cookies. A home with pleasant smells feels cozy and inviting. 4)    Finally, make sure you leave. Homeowners should never be home during a showing so the potential buyers are comfortable looking everywhere, like in closets and cabinets. For more tips on how to sell your home in Santa Barbara, Montecito or Hope Ranch, please visit my comprehensive website. Call me at 805.886.9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com. Go ahead and decorate your home for Easter; just don’t go overboard.