Should You List or Wait? Selling a Home During the Holidays

The holiday season often brings a big question for homeowners thinking about selling: Should I list now, or wait until the new year? While spring is traditionally known as the busiest real estate season, selling during the holidays can actually work in your favour—depending on your situation.

Let’s break it down in a simple way.

The Case for Waiting

It’s true that there are generally fewer buyers shopping during late November and December. Many people are busy with family gatherings, travel plans, and holiday expenses. Some sellers also worry about keeping their home “show-ready” while decorating or hosting guests.

If you’re not in a rush and would prefer maximum foot traffic, waiting until early spring may give you more options and a larger pool of buyers.

Why Listing During the Holidays Can Be Smart

Here’s the part many people don’t expect: buyers who are active during the holidays are usually very serious.

These buyers often need to move due to work, family changes, or firm timelines. With fewer homes on the market, your property faces less competition, which can help it stand out more than it would during a busy spring market.

Plus, homes often feel warmer and more inviting during the holidays. Thoughtful, simple décor and cozy lighting can help buyers emotionally connect with a space—something that plays a big role in decision-making.

Pricing and Timing Advantages

Because there’s less inventory, well-priced homes can still sell quickly. In some cases, sellers even see strong offers because buyers don’t want to miss out on one of the few options available.

Another bonus? Transactions that begin in December often close early in the new year, helping buyers (and sellers) start fresh.

So… List or Wait?

The answer really depends on your goals.

If you need flexibility, want less competition, and are open to showing during the holidays, listing now can be a great opportunity. If timing isn’t urgent and you’d rather wait for peak activity, holding off until spring may feel more comfortable.

The key is having a strategy that fits your situation—not just the season.

Final Thoughts

There’s no “wrong” time to sell a home—only the right time for you. If you’re curious about what the holiday market looks like locally or want help deciding your best move, a quick conversation can go a long way.

Sometimes, the quiet seasons create the best opportunities.

📞 Tyler Condon
Realtor®, Coldwell Banker Electric Realty
📧 tcondon@cbelectricrealty.ca
📱 705-872-7355