After the year we have all had, let’s be honest, this might be the most anticipated holiday season in 2000-plus years.

You can see it, feel it and hear it … thanks Mix 98.9 for giving us an extra dose of holiday music this year. From the larger number of homes decorated on your street, to the empty shelves in stores of both presents and holiday wrapping paper, ornaments and other items people are putting up to bring an extra dose of yule tide cheer, the holiday spirit is sweeping the Mahoning Valley.

Maybe it’s because we all need a little cheer in our lives. Maybe it’s because we are just excited the end of 2020 is near. Or maybe, it is because we are looking forward to Santa’s gifts under the tree.

Whatever the reason, we are looking for joy. If accomplishing a special home remodeling project is on your list to Santa this year, the National Association of Realtors unveiled three projects you should look into that will not just bring you joy this holiday season, but, like Uncle Eddy said, will be the gift that keeps on giving the whole year.

DREAMING OF A WHITE KITCHEN

When it comes to remodeling projects in your home, the one most people look toward first is the kitchen. Let’s face it, it’s the lifeline of our home. From food and drink, to conversations and cookie baking with family, the kitchen has become a main feature of homes. It is no wonder why, according to the report from NAR, it is the highest ranked project that brings the most joy to people upon completion. Redoing your kitchen might just be the secret ingredient to a special batch of cookies Santa will be looking forward to next year.

SANTA CLOSET

While you managed to be a good boy or girl this holiday season, the new wardrobe left underneath your tree may have to sit there for a while if you don’t have the room in your closet. To accommodate the new look, you’re going to be rocking after returning from the holidays, remodeling a closet sounds like it may be in order. This project may not only give you an excuse to add a more diverse selection than just a red coat with white trim, it is the second highest project you can do in your home that brings you the most joy throughout the year.

PAINT WALLS WITH BOUGHS OF HOLLY

While this may be the most tedious project, it adds a new look to your home and will bring you joy in every room. A fresh coat of paint can change the entire look of a home. Whether you want to lighten up a room or add some more peace and tranquility to your existence, a fresh coat of paint ranks third in terms of bringing the most joy to homeowners.

When you look around your house, the projects you want to tackle may be the longest wish list in recorded history. However, if you are truly looking to add joy to your life throughout the year, these three projects should be at the top of your list.

Burgan is the 2020 president of the Youngstown-Columbiana Association of Realtors.