“Home is where the heart is.” Or wait. Is it “Home is where you settle in for a holiday movie binge?” In 2018, the Hallmark Channel wrapped up the final months of the year as the highest-rated and most-watched cable network for the entire fourth quarter among women ages 18-54. A home is meant for making memories. If thinking about those memories conjures images of gathering around the television for family movie night, consider these features of a picture-perfect home.
1. Look Your Audience in the Eyes
Families are made up of all ages and having an easy-to-get-to entertainment area may be ideal for family bonding and quality time. According to Lisa Harris, a real estate agent at RE/MAX Center in Braselton, Georgia, ranch-style homes “often appeal to folks who would like to keep a closer eye on the kids, and they also appeal to the folks who no longer wish to battle the stairs.” Harris also says that ranch-style homes typically have strong resale value. The open concept floorplan may be just what you need to get that optimal viewing party experience.
2. Be Able to Hit Pause
Bathrooms become noticeably important when entertaining! Movie-thons might require frequent “breaks,” so having a home with a nearby half-bath ups the hospitality and experience for your movie watchers. Candles, fresh flowers and soft hand towels are always a nice touch.
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3. Project(or) Your Best
You don’t need to have the latest and greatest big screen TV to satisfy your holiday movie fix! Projectors are rising in popularity – the alternative to TVs is generally seen as a cost-effective and higher resolution option for movie night. If you’re looking to go this route, a large unobstructed wall in a darker area (think basement and dens!) provides the ideal conditions. If a backyard theater piques your fancy, take a look at homes with easy access to outlets in outdoor spaces.
4. Create that Island Atmosphere
It’s no surprise that people gravitate toward food. A kitchen island pairs nicely with an open floorplan, limiting congestion and easing the hosting experience for the homeowner. If balancing hot cocoa on your lap during a movie marathon sounds precarious – consider an island for guests to put down their cups and plates. Aloha!
Sit back. Relax. And call a local RE/MAX agent to make your movie marathon dreams a reality.
Written by Samantha Rotbart
