Christmas Eve is Santa's busiest day of the year, with billions of toys to deliver to millions of children around the world. We take a look at some of the ways you can make sure he finds you, and get a few household chores done while you're at it.

The kids can create signs for the front yard that will ensure Santa and his convoy don't miss your home, says David Cotton, Co-Principal Raine & Horne Port Douglas and Mossman, in Queensland’s tropical north.

“A ‘Santa, stop here’ sign will ensure the jolly man in the red suit delivers his gifts on time,” said Cotton.

Cotton also said the signs can also be used to encourage good behaviour in the lead up to the big day.

“The signs act as a constant reminder to children that Santa isn’t far away – and that his ‘naughty or nice’ rule will dictate who will, or won’t, take delivery of some prized gifts this year,” said Cotton.

Given the intense heat and humidity Santa will encounter in the north of Australia, Cotton also advises that now is the perfect time for checking air-conditioners are in good working order.

“Cleaning your air-conditioner filters helps improve the air quality in your home and makes the machine run more efficiently to ensure that your home will provide a cool escape as Santa delivers gifts to the children of North Queensland,” said Cotton. 

Vince Labbozzetta, Co-Principal Raine & Horne Liverpool, said bright Christmas lights can help Santa identify your home.

“Christmas lighting can be useful," said Labbozzetta. "The right festive lights can illuminate your roof or garden just like a landing strip to help Santa and the reindeers arrive safely at your home.” 

Even if you don’t have a chimney, Santa will find a way to deliver his presents, assured Labbozzetta. 

“That said," he said, "if you do have a chimney, Christmas is a great time to clean it out.”

If you use a wood fire in winter, then you should arrange to have the chimney swept at least once a year to ensure it isn’t choked with soot, according to Mathew Ivanoff, Principal of Raine & Horne Wollongong. 

“For gas fires, make sure the flue outlet isn’t blocked or obstructed as this can prevent dangerous carbon monoxide from escaping your home,” Mr Ivanoff said. 

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