How to Buy an Artificial Christmas Tree

Real Christmas Trees have gotten so expensive! Not to mention the fact that, in order to have a real Christmas tree, you have to cut down a living tree. Really!?

It’s way past time to consider buying an artificial Christmas tree, isn’t it! Think about this:
Artificial Christmas trees come in every size and shape imaginable. From tall and thin, to short and fat and everything in between. In our home, we have only one space for a slim Christmas tree (unless we want to move a bunch of furniture to the garage). Our space requires something thin, but I love a big tree. So I looked for a tall, thin Christmas tree with plenty of branches from which to hang my many ornaments.

Listed below are a few things for you to think about when buying an artificial Christmas tree. You probably already know all of this but these are reminders:

• First, decide on a budget for the tree. Add up the money you would spend on a real Christmas tree and multiply that times 5 – the average lifespan of a pre-lit artificial Christmas tree. Now you have your budget
• Next, think about the kind of Christmas tree you usually buy. Everyone has a favorite: cypress, spruce, grand fir, noble fir, balsam fir. My favorite type of tree is a Noble Fir, which isn’t all that easy to find a tall, think Douglas Fir tree. It took a while, but I found it online here
• Find a retailer that sells artificial trees. You can find them at many big box stores, but at most you’ll find 12 – 18 different kinds, and we knew we wanted a larger selection. That’s why we decided to carry them on our store. We knew we wanted one that looked real, so we found these “Feel Real” trees here.
• Think about the number of branches you like. Do you like a tree with room between branches so you can see each and every one of your ornaments, or one with branches that are fuller than normal? Some artificial trees that are “affordable” in big box stores actually have very sparse branches, so it’s important to know how many branches and tips your tree has when making the decision
• Check the quality of the needles. PE and PVC tips are the highest quality needles for artificial trees. Stay away from plastic. One great tree is made with "Feel Real" technology, which not only looks real, but feels real too. Click here to see a Tiffany Fir "Feel Real" Christmas tree that's amazing!
• Make sure the cord is UL listed for maximum safety
• The number of lights a tree has affects the price. Buy a tree with as many lights as you can afford to create a warm, homey feel. You’ll enjoy it so much more with tons of lights! Think also about whether you want clear or colored lights. Clear lights definitely give off a more traditional look while colored lights add festivity and a modern touch
• You have a few other options as well. You can purchase artificial Flocked Christmas Trees which have become very popular again in recent years, especially in those of us who enjoy a white Christmas but live in an area where little, if any, snow ever falls. Also available are Fiber Optic Christmas Trees which add fun to any room!
• Look for coordinating Wreathes, Swags, Decorations and Centerpieces. Buying on line allows you to find just the right Christmas decoration, as well as storage and accessories
• Finally, measure the space! This is the most important component you need to think about. If you have one, leave yourself enough room at the top of the tree for your favorite tree topper. Measure the width of the space you have and be sure the tree you buy will fit
• Check the return policy. Make sure that if you get the tree and you’re not happy with it you know ahead of time what the return policy will be
• Last, have fun decorating and feel free to send us a picture of your beautiful Christmas tree. We would love to post them!

If you have any further questions, feel free to call a Christmas Tree specialists at (888) 564-4744 to help you find just the right tree. Odyssey Homestore® offer “Legendary” products and services that you just won't find anywhere else. They also offer a low price guarantee, so if you find it anywhere else for less, call and they'll match the price, plus send you 15% of the difference in a gift certificate for future use.