As we enter the final month of the year, one of the most common questions I receive from homeowners is whether December is a good time to list a home. Historically, the answer has often been yes — in many years, buyer activity has remained surprisingly strong through the holiday season, and motivated shoppers took advantage of the quieter market to secure a home before the new year.

But this December is different.

Over the last 45 days, we’ve seen a noticeable cooling in buyer activity, even as several market fundamentals seem favorable on the surface. If you’re considering a holiday listing, here’s what you need to know before putting that “For Sale” sign out front.

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Market Conditions: A Slowdown Despite Better Rates

A few key trends are shaping today’s market atmosphere:

📉 Days on Market Are Rising

The average days on market has climbed to 55, up from 41 days at this time last year. This tells us that homes are simply taking longer to sell, even with proper pricing and preparation.

📉 Buyer Hesitation Is High

Interest rates have declined to the lowest levels we’ve seen this year — hovering around 6.2%. Under normal circumstances, lower rates would spark new demand. But instead, buyers are cautious.

Why?

Economic and political uncertainty have created a sense of nervousness. Despite the highest inventory levels we’ve seen in years, many buyers are choosing to wait for more clarity before making large financial decisions.

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Should You List Your Home in December?

Given current market behavior, my guidance this year is different than in past seasons.

🎄 This December, it may be wise to pause and enjoy the holidays.

With buyer activity soft and days on market increasing, most sellers — and their agents — will benefit from holding off on listing until January, when activity traditionally picks up and buyers re-engage after the holiday lull.

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What About Homes Already Listed?

If your home has been on the market for 3–6 months and activity has dwindled, even though your price is reasonable, you’re not alone. Many active listings are experiencing the same challenge.

➡️ Here’s what I recommend: Stay the course for a few more weeks, then consider terminating the listing and relisting in January.

For Occupied Homes:

If you’re living in your home, the chances of a sudden December surge in activity are slim.
Take advantage of the season — enjoy your home for the holidays, decorate, entertain, and take a break from showings and market stress.

A January relaunch will give your agent the opportunity to:

• Refresh photos
• Update marketing
• Adjust strategy
• Capture renewed buyer traffic

For Vacant Homes:

You can keep your home listed through December, as it doesn’t disrupt your daily life.
However, I still strongly recommend a refresh in January to take advantage of higher engagement levels.

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Looking Ahead to 2026

Industry analysts widely predict 2026 to be a “steady,” “balanced,” and “normalized” housing market — not a boom, not a bust, but finally a return to predictability after years of volatility.

For homeowners planning their next move, stability on the horizon is welcome news.

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Final Thoughts

Every home and situation is unique, but in today’s environment, timing truly matters.
For most sellers, January will offer stronger results than December, and a refreshed approach can make all the difference.

If you’re unsure about your specific scenario or want to plan your strategy for the new year, I’m here to help.

Warm holiday wishes,
Sherry Campbell