What the Real Estate Market Looks Like Heading Into the Holidays
As we approach the holiday season, the real estate market begins its annual shift. While spring and early fall are typically the busiest times of the year, the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s bring their own patterns—some predictable, some unique to current conditions. Here’s a breakdown of what homeowners and buyers can expect as we head into the holidays.
Inventory Levels Typically Decline
Late fall and early winter usually bring fewer new listings. Many sellers prefer to wait until after the holidays when daylight increases and foot traffic picks up.
This means:
Less competition for sellers
More motivated buyers seeing what’s available
Tighter choices for those actively searching
If you’re a seller, lower inventory can actually work in your favor. For buyers, it may require patience and flexibility until more homes hit the market in the new year.
Buyer Demand Becomes More Focused
While the number of active buyers dips during the holidays, those who remain in the market are typically serious and motivated.
Common holiday buyer trends include:
Relocation timelines due to new jobs beginning in January
Investors preparing for year-end purchases
Buyers wanting to lock in a home before rates or prices shift in the new year
You’ll see fewer “browsers” and more intentional, ready-to-act buyers.
Mortgage Rates Influence Activity
Mortgage rates play an outsized role this time of year.
When rates stabilize or dip, even slightly, buyer activity tends to increase—despite the holiday slowdown.
If rates climb, some buyers pause their search until early spring.
This dynamic makes late-year market movements especially sensitive to rate changes, with many buyers watching closely for opportunities.
Homes Still Sell—But With Seasonal Adjustments
Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, the pace of the market shifts:
Showings may slow due to travel and holiday schedules
Days on market may stretch slightly
Some sellers choose to pause showings temporarily
Still, well-priced, well-presented homes absolutely sell during this window. Many even stand out more due to reduced competition.
Holiday Marketing Adds Warmth
Homes show beautifully this time of year. Thoughtful décor, warm lighting, and cozy staging can help buyers connect emotionally with a space.
Just keep seasonal décor simple, timeless, and uncluttered.
Looking Ahead to Early 2026
Historically, activity begins to pick up again in mid-January as:
New listings hit the market
Buyers return with refreshed goals
Relocations wrap up
Rate trends become clearer for the year
Those preparing now—whether buying or selling—can position themselves for a strong start in the new year.