Is Selling Your Property Over Christmas A Good Idea?

Many property sellers assume that Christmas is a quiet period in real estate — a time when buyers and estate agents are distracted by school holidays, festive celebrations, and end-of-year plans. However, in today’s fast-paced market, listing your property over the festive season can offer several unique advantages, if done strategically. 

This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of selling a property over the Christmas period.

The Advantages of Selling Over Christmas

1. Motivated Buyers Are Still Active

While casual browsers might take a break over Christmas, motivated buyers don’t. If someone is house-hunting over Christmas, it’s usually because they need to buy quickly, whether that’s due to relocation, school zoning, investment plans, or an upcoming settlement deadline.

2. Less Competition 

Many sellers will keep their property off the market until late January or early February, meaning there are fewer active listings during the holiday period. This allows your property to stand out, gain more attention, and potentially stronger offers.

3. Homes Look Their Best During the Festive Season

Styling your property suitably for the Christmas period can tap into a sense of comfort and emotion for buyers. With well-chosen festive decorations, soft lighting, and an inviting atmosphere, properties and their curb appeal can feel more compelling than at any other time of year. 

4. Increased Online Traffic

With estate agents enjoying the holidays, in-person activity such as open homes and inspections might slow down. However, online traffic doesn’t. Many people spend even more time on their phone over the Christmas period due to less working hours, giving them plenty of time to browse listings.

The Disadvantages of Selling Over Christmas

1. Limited In-Person Activity 

As mentioned, in-person activity such as open homes and inspections might slow down over the busy Christmas period as estate agents take the time to enjoy the holidays, travel, and attend family events. 

However, high-quality photography, detailed floorplans, video walkthroughs, and virtual tours can help bridge that gap as online traffic remains high. 

2. Some Buyers May Delay Decisions

Some buyers, even those that are serious, may wait until early January to make firm commitments. This isn’t necessarily a disadvantage, as interest gained in December often converts in the new year when people rush to make their purchases.

Final Thoughts

Yes, Christmas is still a good time to sell your property, if done strategically.

Selling during the busy Christmas period can put your home in front of motivated buyers, reduce competition, and allow your property to present at its most welcoming and atmospheric.

The key is to work with an estate agent who knows how to position a listing during a unique period and is open about their availability for in-person activities. At Lloyd Estate Agents, we can guide you through pricing, styling, and marketing your home for maximum impact over the festive period.