Every year around November 15, real estate sales typically slow down. Given the continued lack of inventory, mortgage interest rates that have yet to come down significantly, and the on-going confusion from the commission lawsuits, it’s tempting to stay in bed, watch football or Netflix, or just take it easy. If you’re smart, this is where you can get a head start on your competitors for 2025.

Clients in the market this time of year are serious about buying and selling. A lot of buyers and sellers use the excuse, “I’ll just wait until after the holidays.”

Quite frankly, most houses look their best at holiday time. Inventories in many markets have been increasing, and prices have been coming down because of it.

A great way to get your buyers off the fence right now is to search the MLS for all the properties in their price range that have had a price reduction. These sellers are usually very motivated which means it’s a great opportunity for your buyer clients to negotiate a great price.

For the sellers who do wait, the challenge in January is that a lot of other sellers have also been waiting to put their houses on the market. There will be a lot more competition in January making it harder to sell if buyers are still waiting for rates to come down.

The seasonal lull can be a huge win for buyers, sellers, and savvy agents like you who are willing to take advantage of it.