Christmas styling
Decorating your property for Christmas viewings is a lovely way of adding interest and sparkle at a dark time of the year. ‘Make sure your property is fully staged before you start styling,’ says Natasha Rocca Devine, interior architect and stylist. ‘The decluttering, cleaning and painting come first. The next step is having the photographs taken. Don’t include anything Christmassy at this stage, because the house may sell later in the year.’
Then, talk to your Sherry FitzGerald estate agent. Are they anticipating a lot of viewings over Christmas and who do they expect to view the property? If it’s a small apartment keep the festive styling minimal. But, if a property is suitable for families, Christmas décor will help viewers to imagine themselves into the home.
For viewings, the curb, the hallway and the living room are the most important spaces in a home. Start with the outside, as outdoor Christmas lights around the entrance or on a tree in the garden will improve the curb appeal. But keep it simple. The aim is to enhance the property, not to overwhelm it. ‘I’d recommend a beautiful wreath for the front door,’ Natasha says. ‘A Santa decoration in the porch can look welcoming, but don’t go overboard. People don’t want to be pushing past things. Accessibility is key!’ Since December is a muddy time of year, protect the floors with mats at every door.
‘The hallway has to wow people!’ Natasha explains. ‘A slim tree in the hall can transform the entrance. If you have a mirror in the hallway, decorate it. If there’s a console table, add a tall pillar candle.’ A diffuser with a subtle seasonal scent, like fresh pine, is a safe alternative to a lit candle.
Pay attention to scale. A Christmas tree in the front window looks attractive from the street, but only if the tree is the correct size. ‘If the tree is too large it will make the house look small,’ Natasha says. ‘Remember that its job is to sell your property.’ Since Christmas trees take up space, consider removing or rearranging some of the furniture. In a smaller home, including a Christmas tree might mean moving the TV or taking out a chair.
To help keep your Christmas styling consistent, pick a theme. ‘It can be something very simple, like Winter Wonderland or Old School Christmas,’ Natasha says. Ideally, choose a colour palette that’s already in the home. If you have a back story, let your Sherry Fitzgerald estate agent know. ‘We’re a story-telling culture and people enjoy a personal touch. It might be your grandmother’s Christmas cook book or the board games you play every year.’
In the dining area, dress the table and set it with as many places as it can comfortably fit. ‘Create the vision that you’re a coming into someone’s home for Christmas,’ Natasha says. Remember that not everyone celebrates Christmas. Keep the styling secular and avoid anything related to alcohol. ‘Think about who’s likely to be viewing the property, be respectful of different cultures, and try to be inclusive. Most people love Christmas lights and a festive atmosphere, but I wouldn’t have anything too religious.’
In the bedrooms, keep the decoration low key. ‘I like to have something Christmassy in every room but it can be something small, like a Christmas cushion. Sometimes when I’m styling a family home, I’d include something for children to find, like a hidden reindeer or Santa teddy. It keeps them busy!’
The amount you spend on Christmas decorating should be in proportion to the sale price of the house. ‘People selling expensive properties spend more on styling,’ says Natasha. ‘Keep it sustainable. If you’re not living in the house, put the lights on a timer so they come on at 3 or 4 pm when the light level drops. We’re all trying to keep the budgets low.’ If you’re still living in the house, it’s important to have a cut-off point so you can enjoy Christmas yourself. Ask your Sherry FitzGerald estate agent to book viewings during the day, so you can have evenings with your family.
All the staff at Sherry Fitzgerald wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Contact your local Sherry FitzGerald office today, or visit our website at sherryfitz.ie
