Selling a House in December

Selling a house in December may feel daunting, but it has its advantages and challenges. The holiday season brings unique considerations that can affect your selling strategy. We asked our experienced agents to share their insights on navigating this period effectively.

Pros and Cons of Selling During the Holidays

December can be an attractive time to list your home, as many homes are adorned with warm, inviting decorations that create a cozy atmosphere. According to REALTOR® Jeanette Hussey, “There are fewer homes on the market because of the holidays, so selling a house in December makes for less competition. You can also be fairly sure that anyone looking during the holidays is a really serious buyer.”

This aligns with advice from REALTOR® Debra Mangum, who says, “I always tell sellers that I sold my personal house during the holidays—so there ARE buyers that need to purchase a house during this busy season! Just stay flexible and allow as many showings as requested.”

Balancing Showings and Holiday Plans

While December’s festive charm can attract serious buyers, balancing showings with holiday plans can be tricky. As REALTOR® Terri Reynolds notes, “You can show your house during the holidays because it can show beautifully during that time. The downside is how much of a disturbance it will be for the owners, so it really depends on the sellers’ situation.”

Flexibility is key. REALTOR® Brooke Fulford highlights this point by saying, “It can be difficult to show your house during the holidays if you plan to host family from out of town and with children out of school. On the other side of that, though, if you are going out of town and your house is empty, it makes for an easy show!”

Practical Tips for Selling in December

To make the most of your holiday listing, consider these tips:

1. Streamline Your Décor: Mangum suggests having photography taken before decorating and keeping holiday decorations minimal. This helps buyers focus on the house itself rather than being distracted by decorations.
2. Maintain Flexibility: Being open to as many showings as possible is essential, but remember, you can block showings when necessary. Just try to keep these to a minimum to maintain buyer interest.
3. Discuss Your Situation: Every seller’s situation is unique. Talk to your REALTOR® to tailor a strategy that suits your needs and schedule.

Selling your home in December is a personal decision, but with thoughtful preparation, it can be a successful endeavor. Our agents at West & Woodall are here to guide you through the process and make it as smooth as possible.