Home Trends Winter 2016 | Page 26

2 Real Estate Real Estate Advice with Advice with Joe Mancuso Joe Mancuso trends watch PASTELS will create soothing colour schemes. Arrows Wall Decals, UrbanWalls, www.uwdecals.com Polka Dot Tidbit Plates HomeSense, www.homesense.ca Designed by Jo Alcorn, www.whitewashco.ca Photography by Jason Hartog, www.jasonhartog.com DETAILING YOUR WALLS using wall decals is a great DIY to add pattern or a touch of whimsy to your décor. CLEAN, CRISP, WHITE walls, accessories and furniture are going to be hot this year! 26 t the bea REAL ESTATE winter blues It is a very common myth that winter is a terrible time to sell a home. As a result, there’s a lot less competition in the market during the colder months, and a blanket of fresh snow can show off your house, if you play it right. A Question of Eagles Carved Horizon Planters, West Elm, www.westelm.ca Brasa Candle Holder Set, EQ3, www.eq3.com MIX METALS such as platinum, gold, copper or steel together. Text Jo Alcorn Erik Barthels Print, Monocle, West Elm, www.westelm.ca GREENERY is no longer just a combination of herb-based plants in our kitchens! This year, you’ll see live plants scattered throughout all rooms of the home. PINTEREST POST OVERDOSE! DIYs are great conversation starters and we can expect to see more DIYinspired ideas from Pinterest in interior décor this year! Photo by Weddingstar, www. Weddingstar.com 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Keep windows clean and drapes open as much as possible to bring in natural light. Keep pathways clear (no one wants to slip and fall) and pick up any pet indiscretions as snow always looks best when white! The winter months can leave your home smelling musty, therefore it is imperative to air it out frequently. It’s also a great idea to bake something before a showing to fill the house with a warm winter-friendly aroma of cinnamon, ginger or apple. Hide boots, shovels, and snowsuits. They remind potential buyers that winter can be drudgery. Raise the thermostat a few degrees before a showing for your home to be warm and inviting. You want people to be comfortable and happy when viewing your home. Too many throws, blankets, and heaters scattered around your home can leave the impression of a cold house with a bad heating system. Whenever possible, use the fireplace as an alternative. When buyers leave your home with a great impression, you won’t have to fear the sometimes dreaded winter real estate months! - Text by Joe Mancuso