Are you waiting for the market to change before listing your home? Are you afraid that during the holiday season or winter months, you're not going to get as much money for your home as you would if you waited until the Spring or Summer? Here is what you need to know about selling during the holidays.
Selling your home during the holiday season may not be the first idea that comes to mind, but it’s not necessarily a bad one. While many people assume that spring and summer are the prime seasons for real estate, the holidays can offer unique opportunities for sellers.
1. Lower Competition and More Serious Buyers
During the holidays, fewer new homes are listed for sale, which means less competition for you as a seller. Buyers who are actively house-hunting during this time are often more motivated to make a decision quickly. Unlike casual browsers in the spring or summer, holiday buyers can sometimes be on a tight deadline to find a home. They may be relocating for a new job, dealing with a life change, or hoping to close on a home before the new year. This means fewer showings but a higher likelihood that the showings you do have will be with serious buyers ready to make an offer. With fewer new options to choose from, your home has a greater chance of standing out.
2. Homes Feel Cozier, More Inviting, and Marketable
There’s something magical about walking into a warm, festive home during the holidays. The smell of fresh pine, the glow of string lights, and the warmth of a crackling fireplace can create an emotional connection with potential buyers. A well-staged home with tasteful holiday decor can help buyers envision themselves living in the space, which could result in a stronger emotional pull toward your property. Eye-catching photos of your home decorated with festive lights and seasonal decor can make for stunning online listings. Since many buyers browse properties online before scheduling a tour, these visuals can capture attention and create an emotional appeal. Plus, with more people off work during the holidays, there’s a higher chance they’ll have time to browse real estate listings.
3. Potential for Faster Closing
Because lenders and title companies tend to have lighter workloads during the holidays, the closing process may move more quickly. If you’re looking for a quicker sale, the end of the year can actually be a great time to speed things along. In some cases buyers who want to close before January 1st are often willing to move quickly through the negotiation and closing process.
4. Market Insights: Holiday vs. Summer Selling
Many sellers believe they’ll get a higher price if they wait until the spring or summer to sell, but that’s not always the case. In fact, if your home is priced correctly, you may net more than you think in a slower market. Here’s a look at some real estate market data from 2024 that highlights the differences between the summer and holiday seasons:
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May 2024: 5,024 active listings, 2,618 new listings, 1,956 sold.
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June 2024: 5,309 active listings, 2,395 new listings, 1,679 sold.
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July 2024: 5,642 active listings, 2,591 new listings, 1,754 sold.
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August 2024: 5,858 active listings, 2,555 new listings, 1,786 sold.
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November 2024 (Holiday Season): 6,335 active listings, 1,970 new listings, 1,397 sold.
While there are more active listings in November than in the summer months, the number of new listings is significantly lower, and the volume of sold listings is not far off from the summer months. This shows that serious buyers remain active during the holiday season, and reduced competition could work in your favor. Homes often sit on the market because they’re priced incorrectly from the start. Reach out to an expert in the market to ensure your home is priced competitively. This will help you compete with homes that are actively on the market and lead to a faster sale, with the goal of getting you as much or more than you’d receive in the spring or summer market.
Is It Worth It?
Ultimately, selling your home during the holidays can be a smart move if you are working with a strategic agent. With less competition, more motivated buyers, and the potential for a quicker closing, you’re well-positioned to make a successful sale. Our home selling program normally results in offers during the first 24-72 hours on the market, and ideally showings occur just during one planned day, so it ends up being much easier on you and the family. Don’t let the season deter you—capitalize on the opportunities of the holiday market. Please reach out to us to learn if our unique plan would be right for your situation!
Bonus Tips on How to Prepare Your Home for a Holiday Sale
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Keep Decorations Simple and Elegant: Avoid going overboard with holiday decor. A minimalist approach—like a simple wreath on the door, warm lighting, and a few seasonal accents—will keep your home looking cozy without overwhelming the space.
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Prioritize Curb Appeal: Make sure walkways, patios, and driveways are clear of debris. Consider adding welcoming touches like a festive doormat or potted evergreens.
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Be Flexible with Showings: Buyers may have limited availability due to holiday commitments, so try to be as accommodating as possible with showing times.
