It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Metro Columbus, and we have some tips to help you keep it that way! Most holiday hazards involve little things that you may not think about. Here are ways to protect yourself and your family as you enjoy the season.
1. Don’t advertise your holiday plans on social media – specifically, when you’ll be away from home, and for how long.
2. Prevent crime by reducing temptation. While displaying heaps of presents under the tree is festive, be wary of what shows through your windows. Close your blinds and curtains when you are away from home.
3. Doing last-minute shopping, or delivering gifts? Be sure to keep gifts out of sight, by putting them in the trunk of your car. Thieves look for quick smash-and-grab opportunities in parking lots and driveways.
4. Never leave your car running unattended, even if the weather outside is frightful. Last year’s winter was a boon to car thieves who merely had to hop in and drive away.
5. If you have a live tree on display, keep it well-hydrated.
6. Don’t toss discarded wrapping paper into the fireplace. Recycle it instead.
7. When decking the halls, do not stand on chairs, tables or computer desks. Use a proper stepladder that is safety-rated for your weight.
8. Avoid decorating with poisonous plants, if there is any chance that children or pets will be in the same room with them. Plants such as mistletoe, holly berries, Jerusalem cherry and poinsettias are among the “naughty” list.
9. Don’t open shipping boxes or gift boxes with kitchen knives. Use a retractable box cutter. You’ll avoid dulling your steak knife, and you’ll protect yourself better.
10. Don’t introduce a new pet during the hectic excitement of the holidays. It’s stressful to the pet, and potentially hazardous. Think about ornament hooks, poisonous plants, electric cords, ribbons, and a houseful of excited people – a new pet can find trouble anywhere. Wait until things are calm, and introduce your new pet gently and safely.
11. After opening gifts, compact the packaging inside-out before setting it out for recycling. No need to advertise that your home contains a new mammoth-screen TV, mobile device or the latest gaming system. There are Grinches who steal after Christmas, so don’t leave any bait!
12. Keep your festivities simple. It’s easy to over-commit this time of year to people, to parties, and even to charities. If you find holiday stress taking you over, take a deep breath, and cross something off your list. Don’t feel obligated to accept every invitation, or exchange gifts with everyone, or bake cookies for the entire neighborhood. Sometimes we take “playing Santa” a bit too far!
Wishing for a new Metro Columbus home?
We hope these holiday tips keep things merry and bright! And when you’re ready to buy a home in Central Ohio, we’ll be there to help you. As your Exclusive Buyer’s Broker, we serve your best interests at all times. Unlike real estate agents and brokerages who represent sellers, as an Exclusive Buyer’s Broker, we only represent you, the buyer, getting you the best price and terms with no conflict of interest at all times.
Understanding this distinction could literally save you thousands of dollars not only on the purchase price and terms, but also on seller concessions and home inspection issues, whether you are a first-time homebuyer or an experienced homeowner!
Contact us with your home buying questions! Remember, we are with you every step of the way…all the way home!
Happy Holidays!
Andrew Show
Broker, CEBA, CEBA-M, CNE, CSP, ABR-M, e-PRO, GREEN
Buyer’s Resource Realty Services
Serving Metro Columbus, Ohio with Exclusive Buyer’s Agents
7100 North High Street, Suite 204, Worthington, Ohio 43085
614-888-4110 | 888-888-4110 Toll Free | 614-839-4110 Fax
