Buying or Selling Around the Holidays: Smart or Crazy?

I hear this question a lot: “Is it crazy to buy or sell during the holidays?”

Not necessarily.

Pros for sellers:

• Less competition on the market

• Buyers touring in cold weather are usually serious

• Holiday décor can make homes feel warm and inviting (as long as it’s not overdone)

Pros for buyers:

• Potentially more motivated sellers

• A clearer picture of how a home feels in winter (heating, light, snow/ice, etc.)

The key is to protect your time and energy. We can work together to set boundaries around showings, travel, and events so you’re not overwhelmed.

If you’re considering a holiday-season move, let’s map out what that would actually look like so you can make a calm, informed decision.

Selling in a Changing Market: What You Can Control

Markets change. Interest rates move, buyer activity shifts, headlines get noisy. The good news? As a seller, there are still several things you can absolutely control:

• Condition – Clean, repaired, and well-presented homes win.

• Presentation – Professional photos, clear descriptions, and strong online presence matter.

• Accessibility – The easier it is to show your home, the more buyers will see it.

• Pricing strategy – The right price attracts attention and creates momentum.

My job is to help you focus on what you can control, navigate what you can’t, and position your home so it stands out — regardless of what the headlines say.

If you’re thinking about selling and feeling unsure because of the “market,” let’s talk about what’s actually happening in your price range and neighborhood. Data plus a solid plan can bring a lot of peace.

Buying a Home with a Partner or Spouse: The Conversations to Have First

House-hunting with someone you love can be fun — and it can also reveal just how differently you each define “perfect.”

Before you start touring homes, it helps to talk through a few key topics:

• Budget and comfort zone
  What monthly payment feels realistic (not just what you qualify for)?

• Non-negotiables vs. preferences
  For one of you, a big kitchen might be non-negotiable. For the other, it might be a three-car garage.

• Location priorities
  Commute times, schools, proximity to family, and lifestyle all matter.

• Timeline
  Are you willing to do projects, or do you want “move-in ready” only?

As your Realtor, I’m not just opening doors; I’m helping you navigate these conversations with less stress and more clarity. My goal is for both of you to feel heard, understood, and confident in your decision.

New Year, Clear Plan: Your 12-Month Homeowner Checklist

Instead of setting vague goals like “get organized” or “do more house projects,” let’s create a simple 12-month homeowner checklist you can actually follow.

Here are a few big-picture items to consider:

• Review your mortgage and insurance
  Could refinancing, adjusting coverage, or bundling policies save you money?

• Schedule HVAC maintenance
  A quick check-up now can prevent costly surprises later.

• Plan one “value add” project
  Maybe it’s updating a bathroom, adding storage, or improving curb appeal. One meaningful project per year can really add up.

• Get a market check on your home’s value
  Even if you’re not ready to move, knowing your current equity helps with long-term planning.

If you’d like a personalized version of this checklist based on your home, I’m happy to help. Small, consistent steps over the year can make your home more comfortable now — and more valuable later.