As we gather with loved ones to give thanks this Thanksgiving, it’s easy to overlook how the holiday season can actually be an excellent time to make real estate moves. While many people assume the market slows down during the holidays, in reality, Thanksgiving marks the beginning of a unique opportunity for buyers, sellers, and investors. Here’s why you should consider real estate during this time and how to make the most of it.
1. Fewer Competitors, More Opportunities
Many people put their home-buying or selling plans on hold until after the New Year. This means there’s generally less competition in the market during the holidays, especially around Thanksgiving. For buyers, this can be a golden opportunity to find a home without competing against a flood of offers. For sellers, with fewer listings available, your property could stand out more, increasing the chances of getting attention from serious buyers.
2. Motivated Buyers and Sellers
The holiday season tends to attract people who are highly motivated to make a move. Sellers who are listing during Thanksgiving are likely to be more serious about closing quickly, whether due to personal reasons or the desire to complete their sale before the new year. Similarly, buyers looking during the holidays often have urgent needs—whether they’re relocating for work, expanding their family, or simply trying to get into a home before the year ends. This can lead to quicker negotiations and more favorable terms for both parties.
3. Real Estate Deals and Discounts
The end of the year is often a time when businesses are trying to meet yearly goals, and the same goes for the real estate market. Sellers who are looking to close deals before the new year may be more inclined to negotiate on price. Additionally, lenders and mortgage brokers are often more eager to close deals before the year ends, potentially offering incentives like lower closing costs or more favorable loan terms. With less competition and motivated sellers, buyers might be able to snag a better deal during Thanksgiving and the holiday season.
4. Market Insights for the Upcoming Year
The holiday season is a great time to reflect on the year and start planning for the future, and this includes making real estate decisions for 2025. By looking at market trends during Thanksgiving, you can get an idea of where the market is headed in the new year. The fall and winter months often give a good indication of the direction of home prices, interest rates, and inventory for the coming months. Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding these trends can help you make smarter, more informed decisions when the new year arrives.
5. Holiday Vibes and House Hunting
While you’re busy decorating for the holidays, why not make a fun tradition out of exploring potential homes for the next year? The festive season offers a unique way to view homes—imagine touring houses decorated for Thanksgiving and the upcoming holiday season, giving you a sense of how the property feels during the colder months. Plus, homes often look warmer and more inviting during this time, which can make it easier to envision yourself living there.
6. The Perfect Time for Real Estate Investors
For real estate investors, Thanksgiving presents a strategic opportunity to assess the market for upcoming opportunities. The holiday season offers time to research investment properties, find off-market deals, and analyze trends in preparation for making purchases in the New Year. You might find that fewer investors are active, which opens the door for you to secure good deals while others are distracted with the festivities.
7. Planning for Tax Benefits
If you’re thinking about making a real estate move before the year ends, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to start planning. Real estate transactions have tax implications that can affect your filing for the current year. Whether you’re selling or buying, closing a deal before December 31st could offer potential tax deductions and other financial benefits. Consulting a tax professional can help you maximize these opportunities.
While many people think of Thanksgiving as a time to slow down and relax, it can actually be one of the best times to consider real estate. With fewer buyers and sellers in the market, motivated players on both sides, and potential deals to be had, Thanksgiving can provide unique opportunities for those looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate. If you’re considering making a move in 2025, now’s the time to take advantage of the holiday season’s hidden opportunities.
