Christmas Lights Brighten Your Real Estate Business

Most real estate markets slow down in the weeks leading up to Christmas, but that doesn't mean it's time to stop working on your business. Come December 26th, buyers will be out in bulk, ready to find a home for the new year. One option to get into the holiday spirit and meet potential buyers and sellers is to showcase neighborhoods that have gone above and beyond this season with beautiful displays of Christmas decorations.

1. List the top neighborhoods.

Most locals know a neighborhood or two that they can count on for good Christmas light viewing, but as a real estate agent, you see more of the area than most people. Take a few minutes to jot out a list of the most decorated neighborhoods for people who want to drive around and look at the lights. You could also create a list of parks or stores that light up.

Take your list to the next level by adding quality light displays or neighborhoods to a personalized Google My Maps so interested parties can easily navigate to each location. Be sure to add your branding when you share your list/map so that as people share it with their friends and family. Your name will get recognition in time for the new year buyers and sellers.

2. Lead a light tour.

Many industrious individuals take initiative during the holidays to earn some seasonal income by shuttling light enthusiasts around well-decorated neighborhoods. Consider offering a free shuttle on certain nights and drive members of your community to see the lights.

Launch your light tour from your office to raise awareness of your brand and consider handing out candy canes or another seasonally appropriate gift with your contact information attached. Depending on availability and local road rules, you could also consider renting a horse-drawn carriage to make the experience even more memorable.

3. Host a decorating contest.

Putting up a beautiful outdoor display is a lot of work and creating a decorating contest is a great way to recognize that effort. If you already have ties with certain homeowners associations or a strong geographic farm, work with them to spread awareness about your decorating contest. If you don't already have a strong connection with a specific neighborhood, this is a great way to start creating them.

Choose what criteria you'll use to select the contest winners. Will it be based on most creative? Most spirited? Best lights? Best decorations? You can choose multiple categories for your contest or just award your favorite home the winner's title. Make your contest more interesting by awarding a prize to the winner(s). This could be anything from a gift card or gift basket full of locally made goods to a trophy proclaiming the homeowner's decorating prowess.

However you choose to fuel your business in the leadup to the holidays, now is a great time to get ready for the influx of buyers and sellers looking to transact at the start of the year.

To view the original article, visit the Homes.com blog.