The holidays bring big choices for homeowners, and deciding on a real or artificial Christmas tree is one of the biggest. If you're moving into a new home in Detroit Lakes or checking out houses in Edina, your tree pick affects everything from your wallet to how your home feels during this festive time.

Getting the Real Picture on Christmas Tree Costs

What You'll Pay for a Real Tree

When you buy a real tree, you're paying for more than just the price on the tag. The price of a real Christmas tree in Minnesota falls between forty and eighty dollars, depending on how big it is and what kind you get. But your costs don't stop at the tree farm.

• Live trees need stands to hold water, which often cost between $15 and $35 for good ones
• You should account for the cost of getting the tree home and maybe cleaning your car afterward
• This expense comes back every December, and it can add up over the years

Artificial Tree Cost

Artificial trees are more expensive at first, but can save you money in the long run. Good artificial trees cost from $100 to $500, but you buy them once and use them for years.

• High-quality artificial trees can last 10 to 20 years if you store them right
• Not buying a new tree every year means you spend less per year as time goes on
• Many new artificial trees come with lights built in, so you don't have to buy them separately

Upkeep and Ease of Use Factors

Fresh Tree Care Requirements

Real trees need constant care during the holidays. You must check water levels every day to keep needles from falling and the tree fresh, adding one more thing to do when you're already busy.

• You have to check and fill the tree stand with water, using up to a gallon a day at first
• You need to clean up needles as the tree dries out, which means vacuuming around the bottom often
• After the holidays, you have to arrange for pickup or take the tree to a recycling center

Artificial Tree Simplicity

Artificial trees are super simple for homeowners who don't have much time. You can set them up in minutes instead of spending hours picking out, bringing home, and setting up a fresh tree.

• You don't need to water it, so that's one less daily task during the busy holiday season
• Clean-up is easy; just put away decorations, no need to vacuum needles
• You need a spot in your garage or basement to store it until next year

How It Looks and Feels

The Real Tree Experience

You can't beat the real pine smell and natural look of a fresh-cut tree. The scent fills your house with that classic holiday feeling that many families love as part of their yearly traditions.

Real trees have their own charm with different branch shapes and needle patterns. Each tree brings its own style to your living room, making a unique centerpiece for your holiday decorations.

New Artificial Choices

Artificial trees these days look much better than the obvious fakes from years ago. Top-notch models now have lifelike needle textures and branches that look natural, fooling even the sharpest eyes.

• Pre-lit options save you the hassle of threading lights through branches
• Different styles include snow-covered versions that look dusted without the cleanup
• Steady shape and fullness keep your tree looking great every year

Picking Your Tree

Your choice between real and artificial trees comes down to what matters most to your family and home. Real trees fit families who love tradition and don't mind the upkeep, while artificial trees work for homeowners who want ease and value for years to come.

Think about how much storage room you have, if your budget can stretch each year, and how much time you can spend looking after a tree when you make your choice. No matter which way you go, you'll end up with a stunning holiday centerpiece that'll bring cheer to your Minnesota home all season long.

Celebrate the Holiday Season in a New MN Home

The agents at Counselor Realty know that making your home just right goes beyond just buying it; it's about every holiday you celebrate inside, too. Call today to see how their experienced agents can help you find a home that fits all your holiday traditions across the Twin Cities area.