Timing Your Sale: Is January Actually The Best Month?

Is Waiting Until January to Sell on the Emerald Coast a Mistake? Let’s Talk Strategy 💡

Hey friend, As we inch closer to the holidays—pumpkin pies, Christmas music, and all the cozy moments—it’s completely normal to think, “I’ll just wait until January to list. The market will be better then.” But if you’ve been with me for a while, you know I’m always going to tell you the truth… even when it’s not what most people expect.

And the truth is this:
Waiting until January to sell your home on the Emerald Coast could actually cost you money, time, and opportunity.

Let me walk you through why.

Why Listing in Late Fall Can Be a Smart (and Profitable) Move
Most homeowners hit pause from November to January. They’re busy traveling, hosting, shopping, and honestly—they don’t want to juggle showings with holiday chaos.
But this is exactly why the late fall window can be such a hidden advantage for the clients who don’t wait.

Here’s what I’ve seen over and over again:

1. There’s Less Competition, and Your Home Stands Out
When everyone else decides to “wait until after the New Year,” inventory drops noticeably.
That means if you list now, your home isn’t fighting for attention with 15 similar properties. You get the spotlight.
In real estate, scarcity drives demand—and this time of year naturally creates that for you.

2. Buyers Are Serious, Motivated, and Often on a Deadline
Holiday buyers aren’t browsing for fun. They’re relocating for work, finalizing moves before school semesters restart, handling military transfers, or trying to settle into their next chapter before year-end.
These buyers don’t waste time—they write offers.

And as someone married to a firefighter and constantly helping military families navigate chaotic transitions, trust me… people move 12 months a year, not just in spring.

3. You Might Attract Buyers with Year-End Tax Goals
Some buyers have financial reasons to close before December 31st—whether for investment deductions or other tax considerations.
This creates urgency and keeps the market active, even when most sellers assume it’s quiet.

A Personal Success Story
Let me tell you about one of my favorite late-fall wins.

Last year, I had sellers who trusted the process and decided to list their home the week before Thanksgiving.
Yep—the week of turkeys, travel, and football.

We launched the listing on a Thursday. By Sunday…
We were under contract. Four days.

They had multiple showings, solid feedback, and a buyer who didn’t blink at writing a strong offer right before the holidays.
We closed smoothly, and they told me afterward, “I can’t believe we almost waited until January.”

It was such a reminder that timing isn’t about the calendar—it’s about strategy.

Why January Isn’t the Clean Slate Everyone Thinks It Is
I know January feels like a fresh start. New year, new plans, new buyers.
But here’s the reality:

A surge of new listings hits the market.
Your competition increases instantly.
Days on market can stretch longer.
Prices don’t magically rise on January 1st.

If you want to stand out… sometimes the best move is to zig when everyone else zags.

From My Heart: You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
Selling your home is a big decision—not just financially, but emotionally.
And I get it. You want to choose the timing that feels right, smart, and safe.

My job is to guide you with clarity and strategy, not pressure.

Whether you’re ready to list in two weeks, two months, or sometime next year, I’m here to help you understand your options and make the most empowered decision possible.

If you’re even considering selling before January, let’s talk through the pros and cons for your specific situation. There is no one-size-fits-all—but there is a strategy that’s best for you.

Ready to explore your timeline?

Reply to this email, call me, or just shoot me a quick text.
Let’s map out a plan that gets you the best results with the least stress.

I’m here for you—during the holidays and all year long.