Now that the holiday season has officially arrived, there’s no need to consider taking your home off the market. In fact, housing inventory is typically low this time of  year which means less competition and more serious buyers.

Adding just the right amount of seasonal cheer to your home décor could actually be the magic touch to attract buyers.  The rule is keep it simple.

Here are some ways to create extra warmth that will enhance your space without detracting from your home’s key features.

 1. Lighting
It’s important to keep lighting décor modest and simple for just the right amount of warmth. For example, rather than hanging lights across every window and doorway, stringing bright white lights across the fireplace mantel or in lanterns and vases on an entryway side table can be very inviting.

2. Minimal Color
Accessories such as garlands, ribbons, candles, table runners, baskets, wreaths, pointsetta plants, should all stay as neutral as possible to coordinate with existing décor. Different shades of whites mixed with pops of color such as silver, gold, red or green will add a festive elegance to any room.

 3. Simple Adornments
 Combine natural elements such as evergreens mixed with pinecones for centerpieces that enhance a room and blend well with any wall color or decor style for just the right amount of festive ambiance. Fill a decorative bowl with gold, silver or white balls to add a bit of sparkle.

4. One Christmas Tree
A single, moderately sized tree in a kitchen or living room corner nook adorned with simple ornaments is all that is needed to demonstrate the holiday spirit. A tree that is too large will distract from the room’s features and make the room appear smaller or the ceilings seem lower.

For more examples of interior decorating and home staging, visit www.pjstagingdecorating.com

About the Author: Patti Stern is the principal of PJ & Company Staging and Interior Decorating, and an interior decorator and accredited home stager. She has appeared in Connecticut Magazine, NBC CT and FOX Television and a variety of daily newspapers. She and her team offer decorating and home staging services for individuals, real estate professionals, builders, and others in the industry. She can be reached at 203-640-3762.