Holiday decorating on a budget: three levels that work
A good-looking house does not need everything at once. Spend on the parts people see first, and add a layer each year.
Level one: the basics, done neatly
Lights along the front roofline and one wreath on the door. A straight, even line of lights on the roof looks better than a yard full of scattered pieces. Add a timer so it runs itself.
Level two: the whole front
Outline the front windows, put net lights over the bushes, add garland around the door and stake lights along the walk. This is the level where the house looks finished from the street.
Level three: the showstopper
Add icicle lights under the roofline, wrap the tree trunks, put a wreath on each window, and place one or two lighted pieces on the lawn with a spotlight on the house.
Where the money really goes
Lights are cheaper than people expect. The cost climbs with the big lawn pieces and with the number of extension cords and timers. LED strings cost more to buy but less to run, and more of them can be connected together.
See all three on your own house
Upload a photo and we show your house at all three levels, with a list and an estimated cost for each.