The holiday season usually means a little more time off for most people, as well as an influx of guests. That's why it's a good time to take care of some quick home improvement projects that will make your home safer, more comfortable, and more attractive before guests arrive.
  
Our real estate agents suggest the following home projects you can do during the holiday season:

1. Install a Smart Thermostat
   If you don't already have a smart thermostat, the holiday season is the perfect time to buy and install one. This will not only help keep your family and guests warm and cozy, but it also helps reduce your energy bill. Installing a smart thermostat isn't usually difficult, but if you doubt your ability, consult an electrician or HVAC technician. Just make sure to allow enough time for installation and testing before you have an influx of guests.
   
   
2. Put up a Row of Picture Shelves
   The idea of creating a gallery wall to display artwork can be a little daunting as you try to determine exactly where to hang your pieces and what types of frames to use. If that's the case, you can install a few long floating shelves to display your artwork (or photos) on. The horizontal lines of the shelves will tie the display together, so you can feel free to use different sizes and shapes of frames. You can also easily swap out your artwork whenever you'd like since you don't have to worry about adding any additional nail holes.
     
3. Add New Planters to Your Front Porch
   Add some greenery to your front porch to brighten up your home's curb appeal even when the weather gets colder. Choose matching topiaries in evergreen plants like boxwood or juniper so they can withstand the cold temperatures, and place one on either side of your front door for a welcoming touch.
   
   
4. Spruce up Small Areas With Paint
   Paint is one of the quickest, easiest, and most cost-effective ways to improve your home's appearance. Add a fresh coat of paint to your front door in its original color, or go for a different hue. You can also choose a small room, such as a bathroom, to spruce up with paint. 
   
   
5. Hire a Chimney Sweep
   A roaring fire in the fireplace creates a cozy atmosphere, but before you light the first fire, make sure it's safe to do so. Hire a professional chimney sweep to inspect and clean your fireplace to remove the built-up soot and creosote deposits that can cause a fire. The sooner you hire a chimney sweep, the better because as colder temperatures are in full swing, they could become booked up.
   
   
6. Refurbish Some of Your Furniture
   Give old furniture new life with a coat of paint. You can also add new hardware if your piece has it, and upholstery like new cushions for dining chairs.
   
   
7. Make Sure Your Stairs Are Safe
   The holiday season is the perfect time to ensure that your stairs are safe since you may have older guests and/or children making their way up and down them. Make sure everything's solid, and there are no loose boards. Also, check handrails to make sure they're secure, and add some rubber treads to stairs to give them some more traction.

If you'd like to buy a new house and want to see Richmond homes for sale, contact us today. Our experienced agents can help you find just the right home for you this holiday season.