When you think about selling your property, do you dwell on the possible work and stress involved? You're not alone. Many homeowners share the same concerns. But it doesn't have to be that way. In fact, there are plenty of ways to add some fun, anticipation, and even a sense of adventure to the selling process.

Here are just a few ideas:

1. Plan fun things to do when your home is being shown. That can include walks, sports activities, or trying something you and your family have never done before.

2. Declutter for your own benefit. Instead of thinking about decluttering as a chore required for the sale, focus instead on how much more comfortable your home will be after decluttering. Studies consistently show that less clutter reduces stress and increases a sense of wellbeing.

3. Get everyone in your home anticipating the move in a positive way. Put pictures of your next home, including neighbourhood shots, on the fridge door. Sit together on the computer and explore your new neighbourhood's features and amenities.

4. Celebrate milestones in the selling process. For example, when you're finished preparing your property for sale, go out to celebrate. Make a checklist of milestones and how you'll celebrate each one.

5. Get the help you need. A big part of the stress of selling is the anticipated work involved. Remember, you don't have to do it all yourself. Much of what needs to be done can be handled by contractors and other professionals. There are many other ways to make selling your home a positive and turbulentfree experience.

Give me a call if you'd like more ideas and suggestions.

We all know that December is a time cherished by many!

It's a time of year when everyone walks around with a grin on their face and an extra skip in there step. It's hard not to get caught up in the holiday spirit. Heck, why try to resist? And, whether you spend December celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Kwanzaa, Festivus, Hogmanay, or simply anticipating New Years, Boxing Day, orNational Cookie Exchange Day (yep, it's a real thing), we think we can ALL agree on one thing: Holiday lights are awesome!

There are so many things we love about living in Kelowna, but around December, our favourite Kelowna attribute is the holiday spirit that embodies our community, and the vast amount of beautiful lights! The kids go crazy for them, and to be honest, so do we!

While there is an abundance of light ups around the Okanagan (Kelowna, Peachland, Westbank, Penticton), these require careful planning. Sometimes, on our day off, it's just nice to pack the kids in the car-- or just our sweethearts – and drive around looking at the amazing displays around town.

Well, we had the chance to do just that this week, and let us tell you. It's looking great out there!

We wouldn't want you to miss out on this festive activity, so The Dion-Ivan Real Estate Team put together a short list of our favourite 'lit up' neighbourhoods in Kelowna.

First, we travelled up to Black Mountain where the view of Kelowna is simply breathtaking. Now, let us tell you right away there are no shortage of lights in this popular Kelowna neighbourhood. In fact, it doesn't really matter what direction you drive in you are sure to see some beautifully decorated homes; however, you are going to want to pay special attention to Longley Cr, Wilmot, and Feedham!

After our Black Mountain adventure, we travelled down Springfield (also some nice displays) and up to Kettle Valley. We know! That is the complete opposite end of town, but we had leave the gem in Rutland till the end, and we know the folks of Kettle Valley never fail to impress. We were right! If the homes of this picturesque neighbourhood weren't enough to take a drive up for, the lights sure are! Much like Black Mountain, any direction will take you to some beautiful holiday light displays. Simply head up Chute Lake Rd, and enjoy the sites! Our favourite roads to travel down were Ptarmigan, Providence, Quilchena, Tulameen, and McCaren.

It was getting late, so we knew it was time to head back to Rutland for the icing on the cake. However, before we explored the best of the best, we discovered some awesome decorated houses on Hollydell and Dundee; be sure to check them out! Then we headed on down to Candy Cane Lane! So far, Candy Cane Lane is the crown jewel of Christmas and Holiday Lights in Kelowna. Originally consisting of Gramiak and Collison, it has expanded yearly to include Elwyn Rd, Mary Ct, Rex Rd, and Taylor Rd. It is breathtaking! Every year gets better and better, and let me tell you, these Kelowna homeowners do an incredible job, and we are truly thankful for them! When you visit Candy Cane Lane (an you really must visit!), be sure to bring a non perishable donation for the Kelowna Women's Shelter!

As much as we wish we did, The Dion-Ivans Real Estate Team didn't have the time to explore all of Kelowna, or even touch the rest of the Okanagan, but we know there are some spenders still to see!

Do you have a favourite holiday street in the Okanagan? Don't keep it to yourself! Let us and the others know.

Looking to make Kelowna your new forever home?

Contact The Dion-Ivans Real Estate Team

ROB DION, BBA
PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

250-575-5255
robdion@royallepage.ca

LEE IVANS, BBA
PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

250-575-5455
leeivans@royallepage.ca

OR

Check out the latest local listing here!