The holiday season is full of magic, joy, and festive cheer. But is it also the right time to sell your home? At The Ottiam Group, we’re often asked whether marketing a property over Christmas is a good idea. The answer depends on your goals and situation. Here’s a closer look at the advantages, challenges, and strategies for selling your home during this festive season — and tips on how to prepare if you’re planning to sell in the new year.
The Pros of Selling Over Christmas
- Less Competition
Fewer homes are on the market in December, meaning yours will stand out more to buyers who are actively searching. - Motivated Buyers
Buyers house-hunting during the holidays are often serious about purchasing, whether they’re relocating, taking advantage of time off, or wanting a fresh start in the new year. - Festive Appeal
Homes feel particularly inviting during the holidays. Warm lighting, tasteful decorations, and seasonal touches can help buyers envision spending their own holidays there.
The Cons of Selling Over Christmas
- Smaller Buyer Pool
While those searching tend to be serious, overall buyer activity may dip as people focus on travel, celebrations, and family events. - Scheduling Challenges
Arranging inspections and coordinating with financial and legal institutions during the holiday period can be slower due to limited availability. - Holiday Disruptions
Keeping your home in ‘show-ready’ condition during holiday gatherings can add extra stress to an already busy time of year.
Prepare Now for the Busy January Market
Did you know online property platforms like realestate.com.au and Domain see some of their highest traffic in January? Many buyers use the holiday downtime to plan for their next move, leading to a surge in activity as soon as the new year begins. December is a fantastic time to get organised for this peak period.
Here are some ways to prepare:
- Declutter and Refresh Your Space
Use the quieter holiday period to tackle any repairs, repainting, or staging work to ensure your home is picture-perfect. - Get Professional Photos and Videos
Consider booking photography sessions now while your home is in its festive best, so you’re ready to list when the time is right. - Plan Your Campaign
Work with an experienced agent to create a marketing strategy that maximises exposure during the January rush. - Boost Your Online Presence
Buyers are already scrolling listings during December downtime — make sure your property looks its best online.
Final Thoughts
Selling your home over Christmas can be a unique opportunity, but the key is planning ahead. Whether you choose to list now or use the season to prepare for the January market, timing is everything.
At The Ottiam Group, we specialise in creating tailored campaigns that fit your goals, even during the festive season. Want to explore your options? Contact us today to discuss how we can help make your property stand out!
