When most people think about putting their house on the market, they imagine springtime. Flowers blooming, green grass, warmer weather—sure, it all sounds ideal. But here’s the surprising truth: selling your home during the last three months of the year—October, November, and December—can actually be one of the smartest moves you’ll ever make.
That might go against “common wisdom,” but if you look at historical trends, buyer behavior, and the psychology of the housing market, year-end sellers often have some unique advantages. In this HouseJet Real Estate Market Review, we’ll dig into why that’s the case, and why you may want to put that “For Sale” sign up before the calendar flips to January.
A Quick Look at the Historical Trends
For decades, real estate professionals have noticed a seasonal rhythm in the housing market. Spring typically sees a surge of listings, summer remains active, and then activity begins to taper off in the fall. By the time the holidays roll around, many homeowners assume it’s best to wait until the next “hot” season.
But here’s the catch: fewer listings mean less competition. That’s not just a catchy line—data backs it up. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), while the number of homes for sale does dip in the fall and early winter, serious buyers don’t disappear. In fact, motivated buyers often make some of their strongest offers at the end of the year.
Why? Because life doesn’t run on a seasonal schedule. Job relocations happen in December. Families plan for a January school start. People get year-end bonuses and decide to upgrade their lifestyle. Buyers who are out shopping when the weather turns cold aren’t just browsing—they’re ready to make a move—and fast!
Mike Oddo, CEO of HouseJet, puts it this way:
“A home that’s priced right in November or December will stand out in a way it simply can’t in the spring rush. Buyers have fewer options, and that can translate into stronger offers, fastere sales and smoother negotiations.”
So yes, history shows that while the volume of transactions may be lower, the quality of those transactions is often higher.
5 Reasons You Should Sell Your Home in the Last Three Months of the Year
If you’re wondering whether selling now could work for you, here are five powerful reasons to seriously consider it:
1. Less Competition = More Attention
Picture this: in April, your home might be one of 30 similar listings in your neighborhood. In November, it could be one of just a handful. When supply drops, your home gets more visibility. Buyers who are searching will zero in on what’s available—and that gives your property a much greater chance of standing out.
And since buyers don’t suddenly stop needing homes, this dynamic can create the kind of urgency that sellers love.
2. Serious Buyers Are Still in the Market
It’s no secret—many of the “window shoppers” exit the market when the holidays approach. That’s actually a good thing for sellers. The buyers left in the game are motivated, intentional, and ready to write an offer.
These are people relocating for work, families trying to settle before the new year, or couples determined to take advantage of current mortgage rates before potential changes in the new year. These buyers aren’t wasting time—they’re focused. And when you meet a serious buyer, you’re much more likely to close.
3. Year-End Financial Moves Work in Your Favor
The last three months of the year are when many buyers are making financial decisions. Maybe they’re cashing out stock gains, receiving bonuses, or making moves for tax purposes.
For example, a buyer who wants to maximize deductions may be eager to close before December 31st. Or a corporate relocation package might require them to purchase quickly. These financial and career-driven timelines can help you not only sell faster but also negotiate more favorable terms.
4. Holidays Highlight a Home’s Warmth
Never underestimate the power of emotion in the home-buying process. During the holiday season, homes naturally feel cozier, warmer, and more inviting. A wreath on the door, a glowing fireplace, or twinkle lights on the porch can help buyers connect with your home on a deeper level.
That emotional pull can translate into stronger offers because buyers don’t just see the house—they imagine their own holidays there.
5. You’re Already Thinking About a Fresh Start
Let’s be real: year’s end is a time of reflection. Maybe you’ve already thought about downsizing, upgrading, or relocating. Selling in the last quarter means you can start the new year fresh, without carrying the burden of a sale into spring.
It also puts you in a strong position as a buyer. If you sell now, you’ll be ready to take advantage of new listings that hit the market in January and February, giving you the first pick of the year.
As Mike Oddo of HouseJet puts it:
“The mindset shift that happens at the end of the year is powerful. Sellers are motivated to start fresh, and buyers are motivated to make decisions. That combination creates real opportunity.”
A Few Common Concerns (And Why They’re Overblown)
- “Won’t the holidays get in the way?”
Actually, they can help. Buyers often have more time off work to tour homes, and as mentioned, the holiday spirit makes homes shine. - “Aren’t buyers distracted?”
Yes, some are. But the ones who are still active? They’re laser-focused. You don’t need every buyer—you just need the right one. - “What about the weather?”
Sure, fewer people want to move furniture in December, but remember, closings can be scheduled around what works for everyone. And in most cases, buyers don’t care if it’s chilly outside if the house checks all the boxes.
Wrapping It Up
Selling your home at the end of the year might not be the “traditional” choice, but it’s one that carries powerful advantages. Historically low competition, serious buyers, and strong financial motivations give sellers a real edge. Add in the cozy holiday factor and the chance to start the new year fresh, and it’s easy to see why the last quarter of the year can be an unexpectedly strong time to
make a move.
So, if you’ve been hesitating, maybe now’s the time to lean in. Don’t wait until spring to compete with everyone else—consider selling now, when your home can truly shine.
Wally Bressler, Real Estate Industry Veteran and Market Expert
Contributing Writer from HouseJet
9/23/2025