A realistic look at December real estate in Edmonton.
By Aimee Boxall
A realistic look at December real estate in Edmonton.
When the holidays roll around, it’s very tempting to say,
“Let’s just take it off the market and deal with this in the new year.”
And honestly? That’s understandable.
December is BUSY. Your to-do-lists are longer than Santa’s naughty list in Vegas. Homes feel more cluttered, decorations multiply, you’re hosting dinners, wrapping gifts, juggling family schedules, wondering where to put the freaking Elf on the Shelf NEXT, trying to remember all the ingredients in great grandma’s famous shortbread…. The last thing you want is a showing request forcing you to leave your warm and cozy home, especially not in the middle of our bitter Edmonton winter.
So yes, taking a holiday break can be the right move for some sellers which means a sudden drop in listings, and a large shift in the market. BUT if you are willing to deal with some seasonal inconveniences, you could take advantage of this shift!
What the Market Actually Does in December
When listings come off the market, inventory drops significantly.
Do buyers disappear too? Not necessarily.
While some people pause their search, many buyers are still actively looking — especially those who missed out in the fall, are relocating, or are simply ready to buy. And anyone booking showings during the holidays, in an Edmonton winter, is usually not just browsing. They’re serious. No one’s going to put themselves through that torture without motivation.
How Staying Listed Can Work in Your Favour
Fewer listings + motivated buyers = opportunity.
With less competition, your home has more room to stand out.
Buyers viewing homes in December tend to be focused, and showings are more likely to come from people who are ready to make decisions, not just window-shopping.
If your home has been sitting on the market, staying listed can sometimes be more effective than waiting to relist in spring, when you’ll be competing with a flood of fresh listings.
If You Stay Listed, Do It Intentionally
If you keep your home on the market through the holidays, a few things matter more than ever:
Pricing:
If your home has been listed at the same price for a while, a strategic adjustment can help bring fresh attention during a quieter season.
Photos:
Listings with summer or fall photos in December feel dated. Seasonal photos help your listing look current. There should not be a listing without snow in the photos right now!
Presentation:
A warm, simple, inviting feel works best. Festive is great — overwhelming isn’t.
Exposure:
A well-marketed open house, even in December, can still bring additional eyes and momentum. Santa pictures by your fireplace anyone?
So… Should You Pause or Push Through?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Pausing might make sense if you’re hosting often, feeling like you’re being stretched thin and turning into a Grinch, or know your home will shine more in spring. Staying listed can be the right move if you want less competition, are motivated to sell sooner, and are open to strategic adjustments.
The best choice depends on your home, your timeline, and what feels manageable for you during the holidays. And if you’re unsure, that’s exactly what I’m here for! We’ll talk it through and help you choose the option that makes the most sense for you.
Because you should be able to enjoy the holidays and make smart moves for what comes next.