Is Your House the Top Thing on a Buyer’s Wish List this Holiday Season?

Every year around this time, homeowners who are thinking about moving face the same question:
Should I sell my home now, or wait until after the holidays?

Some even take their listings down and plan to relist in January. But here’s the truth: plenty of buyers are still looking right now — and your home might be exactly what they’re hoping to find before the year ends.

According to Fortune Builders:

“While a majority of people take a step back from the real estate market during the holiday months, you may find when the temperature drops, your potential for a great real estate deal starts to rise.”

Let’s look at a few reasons why selling your home during the holidays might actually work to your advantage.

1. Serious Buyers Are Still Out There

The desire to own a home doesn’t pause just because it’s the holiday season. Some buyers may need to move quickly due to job changes, family needs, or other life events. These buyers are motivated and ready to make a decision.

As Investopedia explains:

“Anyone shopping for a new home between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is likely going to be a serious buyer.”

So if your home is on the market now, you could find the right buyer faster than you think.

2. There’s Still Less Competition

Even though housing inventory has improved a bit, it’s still lower than what we saw before the pandemic. That means buyers don’t have as many homes to choose from — and that’s good news for you.

When supply is low and demand is steady, your home has a better chance of standing out, especially if it’s priced right and well-presented.

3. You Control the Schedule

One of the biggest concerns about selling during the holidays is timing. The good news? You get to set the schedule that works best for you.

You and your agent can decide when showings happen, making sure they fit around your personal plans. Plus, buyers this time of year often have more flexibility too — many have extra time off work, which can make scheduling showings easier for everyone.

4. Holiday Charm Helps Buyers Connect

Homes decorated for the season can feel warm, welcoming, and full of character. That emotional connection can make a big difference to buyers imagining their future in your space.

Just keep decorations simple and balanced — highlight your home’s best features rather than hiding them. As real estate pros often say:

“If you’re selling around a holiday and have decorations up, make sure they accent—not overpower—a room.”

A few tasteful touches can help buyers picture themselves celebrating the holidays there next year.

Bottom Line

Selling during the holiday season might feel unusual, but it offers real advantages: fewer competing listings, more serious buyers, and the chance to show your home at its most inviting.

If you’re thinking about selling soon, now could be the perfect time. Let’s connect and talk about the best strategy to make your move before the new year.

Finding ways to make your credit score better could help you get a lower mortgage rate. When you’re ready to get the process started, let’s connect.

Jeremy Kilbourne

Jeremy is Arch Mortgage North’s Lead Loan Officer. Bringing experience, compassion and creativity to the mortgage lending process, Jeremy loves helping clients achieve their home ownership goals.

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Sell Your House During the Winter Sweet Spot