December’s market seem to be very active this year. No need for the monthly sales stats to confirm that. Normally it is a slow month, because of the Holidays. Most people are into Christmas shopping, Christmas dinner parties, and little time to seriously visit homes. But there are still buyers calling for information and getting their finances ready for the next year – which is only a few weeks away. Many people are waiting for the new year to seriously start looking at homes.
There are still plenty of agents working over the holidays, as most take their vacation in the summer. I skipped my summer vacation this year (well, partially), and decided to go away for the holidays instead – Don’t hate me for it. Sheila is staying to cover for me while I’m away, and several blog posts have been schedule for when I’m gone.
Back to this month’s market…
There should be activity right after Christmas Day. I find it amazing how people can be so dedicated to finding a home right after the customary family and social (and/or religious) responsibilities such as Christmas. From the 26th on, the phones shall be constantly ringing.
If you’re selling your home, that is good news. Although you will not get the same amount of prospective buyers as, say for example in February. But you can rest assure that those few people who are visiting during the holidays are seriously looking to buy a home. Otherwise, they’ll be staying in, eating the leftover turkey and drinking eggnog.
Posted by: Deya Bautista - Real Estate Broker working as part of the McGill Immobilier team. Specializing in high end condos in downtown and Old Montreal. For buying or selling contact Deya at: 514.917.7889 
2010 is going to be a great year, i feel it
When I bought my first home I moved in a few days after Christmas. I lucked out and there was no snow and it was 10C outside. I think it can be a good time for buying a home. Less buyers can mean a better deal for you if the seller is more interested in moving than getting their price.
The period from Christmas to New Years can often be a good opportunity to put in offers on homes, and buy homes. Homeowners that are open and willing to accept showings for their home during this time frame should generally be motivated to sell. In addition, people looking to purchase a home should be equally as motivated to make a deal.
I think that most people believe that realtors go on vacation just after Christmas, which is not always the case. There are many that are still working hard. Just with any profession, you have realtors on vacation and realtors still working hard.
Either way you slice it, the between now and the end of the year (the next 7 days) can be a great opportunity to find motivated sellers.
Regards,
Neil Uttamsingh.