If you’ve ever looked around your house in December and thought, “Where do I even start?”, you’re not alone. Between gift shopping, parties, and endless deliveries, keeping your home calm, clean, and ready for the holidays can feel like another full-time job. The good news is that a little preparation now can make the season more organized and truly enjoyable.

The best way to get your home holiday ready is to simplify early. Begin by decluttering the spaces that will see the most activity, like your living room and guest areas. Create small, manageable lists for decorating, gifting, and hosting so you can focus on one thing at a time. And do not forget to add heart. Thoughtful touches, such as a snack cart for delivery drivers or sharing unused items with neighbors, bring real warmth to your home.

Why Holiday Home Prep Matters

Your home sets the tone for the season. A calm and organized environment not only impresses guests but also reduces stress for you and your family.

Here’s why it matters:

• You save time and energy. When everything has a place, you spend less time scrambling.
  
  

• You enjoy more moments. Less clutter means more connection with the people who matter.
  
  

• You create lasting memories. A welcoming home helps everyone slow down and appreciate the holidays.
  
  

Step 1: Declutter and Refresh

Start with what I call the “toy and trinket purge.” If you have children, involve them in sorting toys they no longer use. Donate gently used items to local shelters or community drives where they can bring joy to someone else.

Then move through shared spaces. Recycle old mail, clear countertops, and freshen up decor with candles or greenery.

Pro tip: Keep one “catch all” basket in each main room. When guests drop by, you can quickly tidy up by placing stray items inside.

Step 2: Plan and Personalize Your Holiday Tasks

Instead of juggling everything in your head, make your plan visible.

Create a list or board that includes:

• Mailing all holiday cards by the first week of December.
  
  

• Organizing outfits for each event in advance.
  
  

• Finishing gift shopping early so you can enjoy wrapping, not rushing.
  
  

• Setting up a delivery driver snack cart with water, granola bars, and thank you notes.
  
  

This approach turns chaos into calm. You’ll feel in control and confident as the season unfolds.

Step 3: Reuse, Recycle, and Share

The holidays can be beautiful without being wasteful. Before buying new decorations, look at what you already own and get creative.

• Wrap gifts using old maps or simple brown paper tied with ribbon.
  
  

• Swap decor with friends or neighbors for a refreshed look at no cost.
  
  

• Recycle packing materials for future shipping or storage.
  
  

Small sustainable habits make your home and community feel lighter and more intentional.

Step 4: Create a “Holiday Ready” Space

If you’re hosting, focus on the areas guests will see most. Entryways, living spaces, and bathrooms should feel fresh and welcoming.

Add simple touches:

• A lightly scented candle by the entryway.
  
  

• Fresh towels and a small basket of toiletries in the guest bath.
  
  

• Cozy blankets and soft lighting in the living room.
  
  

Keep an extra bin nearby for quick cleanups. When your space feels ready, your mind does too.

“The secret to a stress-free holiday isn’t perfection. It’s preparation done with heart,” says Aleks Korfanty, Real Estate Partner with Compass. “Whether you’re hosting or house hunting this season, your home should reflect joy, not chaos.”

Orange County Holiday Perspective

Here in Orange County, the holidays often mean sunny days and open houses instead of snow and ice. It’s an excellent opportunity to blend seasonal warmth with coastal style. Use neutral colors, natural textures, and greenery for a festive yet timeless look.

Many homeowners also take this time to prepare to list their homes in the new year. A pre-holiday refresh now can help your home shine in the January market while giving your family a beautiful space to celebrate.