Getting Your House Holiday Ready

Summer is behind us and the hustle and bustle of the holiday season is just around the corner. If you are expecting holiday guests or plan on entertaining during the holidays, now is the time to get your house in order.

Declutter First

Before starting on any home improvements or holiday decorating, take some time to declutter. Clean out the hall closet to make room for winter gear and guests’ coats. Go through the main living areas and clear table tops, bookshelves and counters of unnecessary clutter.   Update the family photos on walls and table tops.

Make It Sparkle

A professional cleaning can give your interior a fresh new look for the holidays. Hire the pros to come in and clean your home from top to bottom, including walls, blinds and windows. Have the rugs shampooed and hardwood flooring cleaned. Give the surface of tired vinyl and ceramic flooring a go with a commercial restorer for gleaming results.

Redecorate

A simple coat of paint is the most cost-effective upgrade you can make to your home. But the clock is ticking, so book your painting contractor now.

Updating the crown moulding and baseboard or repainting it, is another easy fix that will add flair to your decorating project.

Create More Space

Turn an unused bedroom into a den, office or crafts room. Increase the liveability and value of your home by renovating the basement to add a guest room, a family room, an additional washroom, a home office or a study area. A professional renovator can advise you on how to create the space you need while working within your budget.

Layered Décor

Now that your home is fresh and clean, add the finishing touches. Simple updates like adding throw rugs, pillows in rich jewel tones and slip covers in warm colours will add warmth to your home décor. Update or accent your window coverings; add a valance or accent your windows with another layer of fabric. Drape bare surfaces with tablecloths and runners to add more warmth.

Exterior Considerations

Plan to take advantage of a fine fall day to have the eaves cleaned before hanging the holiday lights. Dig out the snow shovel and tune up the snowblower so they are handy and ready to go when the snow flies. Order firewood and have ice melter on hand to make walkways safe for holiday visitors.

Source: Homeservice Club