Let’s be real: the week of Christmas is not “peak interest.” It’s peak real life. So if you’re selling your home right now, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s prepared + peaceful + ready when the right buyer shows up.

Will people be looking at homes right now?

Yes—just fewer of them. BUT… Holiday shoppers tend to be more serious (relocation, deadlines, life changes), and there’s often less competition from other sellers because many people pause listings and showings. Zillow+2Realtor+2

Nationally, existing-home sales ticked up in November (third straight month), while inventory tightened and new listings have shown seasonal drop-offs—meaning fewer homes can stand out more. The Wall Street Journal+2Reuters+2

So the better question isn’t “Is anyone looking?”—it’s “Are we ready if a motivated buyer shows up?”

What sellers need to know for right before and right after Christmas

1) The “holiday advantage” is real—but only if you’re easy to show

This week, buyers who are active don’t want friction. If your showing rules are super tight, they’ll move on.

Best practice through New Year:

  • Keep showing times simple (ex: “daily 10–6 with 2 hours notice”)

  • Be ready for a couple “we’re in town for 36 hours” requests

  • Have a quick plan for pets + tidying (below)

2) Your décor should say “cozy,” not “cluttered”

Holiday warmth sells. Holiday chaos shrinks rooms.

Do this, not that:

  • ✅ one wreath, a simple tree, a neutral centerpiece

  • ❌ stacks of gifts in living areas, oversized inflatables, crowded tabletops

3) Scent is your silent salesperson… or your silent deal-killer

Buyers read overpowering scent as “something’s being covered.”

Keep it clean + light: subtle citrus/vanilla, fresh air, clean trash can.
Skip heavy plug-ins and strong cinnamon bombs.

4) Price and presentation matter more when traffic is lighter

With fewer showings, every showing counts. If you’re overpriced, you don’t get “extra chances.”

The 10-Minute “Showing-Ready” Holiday Routine (Now–Jan 2)

This is staging-lite for real humans.

1) Clear surfaces (2 minutes):
Kitchen counters + bathroom vanities = mostly empty.

2) Kitchen reset (3 minutes):
No dishes. Trash out. Sink wiped.

3) Bathrooms (2 minutes):
Fresh hand towel out. Toilets clean/closed. Quick mirror wipe.

4) Floors (2 minutes):
Vacuum high-traffic zones and pet areas.

5) Final vibe (1 minute):
Lights on, blinds open, thermostat comfy, add subtle scent.

Pets: the simplest plan that works

  • Hide bowls + litter box area is spotless

  • If possible: pets leave the house for showings

  • If not: secure them safely (and leave a friendly note)

Buyers notice pets instantly. They also notice smells and fur instantly. 😅

If you’re NOT listed yet: what to do right now (so you win in early January)

If your plan is “list right after Christmas,” this is your sweet spot.

This week (Dec 19–Dec 24):

  • Declutter aggressively (closets, counters, garage corners)

  • Knock out tiny repairs (leaks, squeaks, touch-up paint)

  • Decide what holiday décor stays for photos (usually minimal)

Right after Christmas (Dec 26–Jan 2):

  • Deep clean

  • Stage simply (fewer items, bigger visual space)

  • Schedule photos + finalize pricing strategy

This sets you up to hit January with momentum—without trying to overhaul your life during Christmas week.

The calm bottom line

People are looking—AND the ones looking now tend to be motivated. Zillow+1
If selling is on your mind for 2026, the smartest move is keeping your home warm, simple, and easy to show—and letting the right buyer find you.

From all of us at Ashurst Niemeyer: Merry Christmas week from our little corner of the Eastern Shore. 🎄🌊

And if 2026 is whispering “new chapter,” we’d be honored to help you make a plan—no pressure, just clarity.
📞 Call 251.928.9265