RealEstateEconomyWatch.com

Homeowners fortunate enough to have a spare bedroom or two are putting them to good use this holiday season.  Some four in ten American families (39 percent) are hosting holiday get-togethers that include 15 or more family members and friends, and more than half (54 percent) say they stay overnight with their families so they can all be in one household during the holidays.

A Coldwell Banker Real Estate Survey also found that most used during the holidays  the kitchen and living room are split almost evenly as the most popular spaces (41 percent and 43 percent, respectively), while 12 percent said the dining room is the most frequented area.

Approximately four in 10 respondents say their holiday get-togethers include 15 or more family members and friends, and more than half (54 percent) say they stay overnight with their families so they can all be in one household during the holidays.

Additionally, the survey of nearly 1,000 people found:

More than three-quarters (78 percent) of Americans “deck the halls” by decorating their home for the holidays. The vast majority (67 percent) say they decorate some, without going overboard, while 11 percent say they “go all out.” Only 21 percent don’t decorate at all.

Most people claim they’ve never snooped for presents. 77 percent of respondents said they have never looked for stashed-away presents before it’s time to open them. (Only 23 percent freely admit to peeking around)!

“Almost everyone has a memory of the holidays that involves being home with friends and family,” said Michael Fischer, chief marketing officer, Coldwell Banker Real Estate. “Americans cook and share food, host parties and bring everyone together in our homes. At Coldwell Banker, we recognize that a home is more than just a place to live. This is true more than ever around the holidays.”