The holiday season has always represented a time to connect with family and friends, celebrate annual traditions, and reflect on the year that has been. While we've had an unusual year that has changed how we interact with loved ones, you can still enjoy all the season has to offer – even if you're staying home all day. Our real estate agents have gathered some of the best Christmas activities that will keep your kids entertained and help you create lasting memories.

• Design a Winter Wreath
  As you set your table with festive decorations, deck out your tree with beautiful ornaments, and place a garland on your holiday mantel, don't forget your front door. A festive wreath can elevate your entrance and it's very easy to make. Take the kids outside for a quick winter walk to collect pine cones, evergreen branches, or leaves. You can also rely on store-bought items to make your stylish seasonal wreath.

Seems we hardly get a break these days, trying to stay a step ahead and maintain safety in our homes, on the job, or traveling around. While we can't control everything, we can take measures to ensure our homes are relatively safe during the frantic holiday season. So as you go about your holiday preparations, take some time to consolidate your safety procedures. Be sure to ask our real estate agents in the Long Island area for more advice on how to keep your home safe in the coming weeks.

1. Traveling
   Going away for the holidays? Makes sure you ask a friend to check on your home every day, taking in the mail and receiving packages. You can also go an extra step to ensure home security by installing a camera at the front door so you can monitor what's happening in real-time. In addition, install timers so that lights come on and go off as if you were at home. Don't have lights blazing inside and outside all night long. That's a signal to burglars that no one's home.

Are you ready for another holiday season of spectacular light displays in communities across Long Island? There are drive-thru lights shows happening all over Long Island this year, allowing you to enjoy a festive family tradition from the warmth and comfort of your own vehicle. Many of your favorite annual light displays will be returning this year, and there are a wide variety of displays available to suit every taste. Our real estate agents have all the delightful details about 5 of the best holiday light displays around Long Island this year.

• Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt Museum – 180 Littleneck Rd., Centerport, NY 11721
  Long a favorite destination for educational family fun close to Centerport homes for sale, the Vanderbilt Museum also happens to be a great place to celebrate the holidays. During the outdoor Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt Museum event, the entire grounds of the museum are turned into a holiday wonderland. This event will be open every day throughout the holiday season.

At Laffey Real Estate, our real estate agents have helped thousands of clients make the right real estate moves to support their retirement lifestyle. For many, that means downsizing to a smaller, more manageable home.

But if you already own your home, deciding what to do next is a little bit more complicated.

For decades, people have used their homes as a durable vessel to create financial value. About 75% of the average America's wealth is stored as equity value in the home. Selling a home may empower you with a substantial infusion of cash, but it is not the right move for everybody.

Current homeowners can generate income with their home or even access equity without selling. So, how do you know whether you should sell or stay? Keep these factors in mind as you plan your decision.