Buying or Selling During the Holidays: Myth vs. Reality

Buying or Selling During the Holidays: Myth vs. Reality

The holidays are a time for cozy nights, full calendars, and—if you’re in real estate—a lot of mixed opinions. Every year, someone says, “No one buys homes in December!” or “You should wait until spring to sell.” And yet, each winter, we see clients who list or buy in November and December walk away with incredible results.

The truth? The holiday market isn’t slow—it’s simply different. With fewer casual shoppers and more motivated movers, the season offers opportunities for those willing to think beyond the traditional spring rush.

If you’ve been wondering whether to make a move before the new year, here’s what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to buying or selling during the holidays.

❌ Myth #1: “No one buys homes during the holidays.”

✅ Reality: Serious buyers never stop looking.

While the number of active listings usually dips this time of year, that doesn’t mean buyers vanish—they just get more intentional. Many house-hunters shopping in November and December are driven by timelines: job relocations, school district changes, or end-of-year tax planning.

In the Portland Metro and SW Washington areas, we often see relocation buyers taking advantage of the slower season to move into their new home before January. With less competition and sellers eager to close before year’s end, buyers can find unique opportunities that simply don’t exist in spring.

And since online searches never take a holiday, your listing can still be seen by hundreds of motivated shoppers scrolling between gatherings and travel plans.

❌ Myth #2: “Homes don’t show well in winter.”

✅ Reality: The holidays can make homes feel more inviting.

There’s a reason “home for the holidays” has such emotional power. When done right, winter staging can highlight everything buyers love—warm lighting, soft textures, and a sense of comfort.

A few strategic touches go a long way:

• Use simple, neutral décor—think greenery, candles, and subtle twinkle lights.

• Keep pathways clear and outdoor lighting bright for those early sunsets.

• Add warmth indoors through cozy throws and softly scented candles (avoid strong pine or cinnamon).

Winter also gives sellers an advantage that spring can’t: buyers walking into a home that feels like home. A warm, welcoming space during the holidays often leaves a lasting impression.

❌ Myth #3: “You’ll get lowball offers if you sell now.”

✅ Reality: Holiday buyers are typically more serious—and realistic.

While it’s true that fewer homes list in winter, that scarcity often benefits sellers. When inventory is low, the right home stands out. The buyers who are shopping aren’t testing the market; they’re ready to move.

In neighborhoods across Portland, we’ve seen well-priced listings in December still attract multiple offers—especially when staged beautifully and priced strategically.

And here’s something most sellers don’t realize: with fewer competing listings, your home doesn’t have to “fight for attention.” Buyers have more time to focus on your property, which can mean stronger, cleaner offers.

❌ Myth #4: “It’s too stressful to move during the holidays.”

✅ Reality: With planning and the right team, it’s surprisingly manageable.

Moving any time of year takes coordination, but the holidays don’t have to add chaos. In fact, because contractors, movers, and inspectors tend to have more availability in winter, the process can be smoother than you’d expect.

If you’re selling, aim to list early in the season—mid-November to early December—so your home hits the market before year-end travel peaks. For buyers, the same window means less competition and more room to negotiate.

A good agent will help you schedule showings around your commitments, streamline closing timelines, and keep things moving even while everyone else is sipping cocoa.

❌ Myth #5: “It’s better to wait until spring.”

✅ Reality: Waiting could mean more competition—for both buyers and sellers.

Spring brings excitement, yes—but it also brings crowds. More listings, more buyers, and more bidding wars. If your goal is to stand out, sometimes being the only one in the room works in your favor.

Sellers listing now often enjoy higher visibility, while buyers can negotiate more favorable terms. Plus, you’ll beat the spring rush of new listings and have your next move already wrapped up by the time flowers bloom.

Why the Holiday Market Works in the Pacific Northwest

Unlike regions that slow to a halt under heavy snow, the Portland Metro and SW Washington areas stay active year-round. Our mild climate allows for safe travel, flexible showings, and steady buyer traffic even in the colder months.

Many relocation buyers target this area in winter to start new jobs in January, and local buyers use the season’s slower pace to shop without pressure. Add in the charm of festive neighborhoods—twinkle lights in Lake Oswego, decorated storefronts in downtown Vancouver, and cozy cafés around Nob Hill—and you have a season that makes buyers want to fall in love with where they live.

Tips for Success This Season

For Sellers:

• Keep exterior lighting on a timer for early sunsets.

• Offer boot covers and a warm, welcoming entry space for showings.

• If you’re traveling, coordinate with your agent to manage showing schedules seamlessly.

• Highlight comfort features—fireplaces, heated floors, energy efficiency—to showcase year-round livability.

For Buyers:

• Get pre-approved before touring homes; sellers value serious offers this time of year.

• Be flexible on closing dates—some sellers are motivated to finalize before the new year.

• Don’t let limited inventory scare you; motivated sellers often mean better negotiation opportunities.

Buying or selling during the holidays isn’t about bucking tradition—it’s about recognizing opportunity when others overlook it. The truth is, real estate never really takes a break. It just shifts in pace, tone, and energy.

This season, while others wait for spring, the savvy few are already taking advantage of quieter streets, motivated movers, and the kind of homes that shine brightest under soft winter light.

At Atlas North, we believe every move should feel meaningful, not rushed. If you’re thinking about buying or selling this season, we’d love to guide you through it—thoughtfully, strategically, and with a little extra holiday cheer.

Because no matter the season, your journey is our priority.