Can Selling Your Home In December Still Be A Good Move?

December can still be a worthwhile time to sell a home in Melbourne’s south-east. Fewer new listings may give your property more room to be noticed, and some buyers remain focused on finding a home before the year ends. But a quieter calendar does not guarantee stronger demand or a faster sale. The right decision depends on your property, price and timing.

Does the property market actually slow down in December?

Usually, fewer properties come onto the market as Christmas approaches. SQM Research reported that total Melbourne property listings fell by 16.6% from November to December 2025. The Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) also describes December and January as seasonally quieter months for new listings.

That is a change in the number of homes available, not proof that every buyer stops looking. Equally, fewer listings do not automatically mean less competition for an individual home. Buyers may have fewer options, but there may also be fewer active purchasers at inspections.

Why might motivated buyers still be looking at the end of the year?

Some buyers keep searching through December because a move is already part of their plans. A family may be preparing for a change in circumstances, or someone may have finance organised and a clear picture of what they need. These are possible reasons for continued interest, not evidence that December buyers are always more serious.

For sellers in Berwick, Officer, Beaconsfield and nearby suburbs, the useful question is whether the people likely to want your type of home are still inspecting and making offers. Recent comparable sales, current competing listings and enquiry on similar homes tell you more than the month alone.

Could fewer competing properties help my home stand out?

Potentially. When fewer similar properties are launched, buyers may have a shorter shortlist. Strong photography, accurate information, realistic pricing and practical inspection times can help them assess your home.

However, a property that is priced above comparable homes may still struggle to attract interest. In its October 2026 market commentary, the REIV reported elevated Melbourne stock levels and cautious buyers. This makes local, up-to-date evidence especially important rather than assuming every December campaign benefits from scarcity.

How does a December campaign compare with waiting until the new year?

Planning considerations for a December sale versus a later launch

Consideration	Selling in December	Waiting until the new year
Other listings	New listings often ease towards the holidays, although existing stock remains.	New competing homes may return as campaigns resume.
Buyer availability	Some buyers remain active; others are travelling or occupied.	More people may resume their search, but timing varies.
Inspections and services	Holiday schedules may limit availability for inspections and professional services.	Normal schedules may be easier to coordinate after holiday closures.
Best fit	A prepared home with a flexible seller and evidence of active local buyers.	A seller who needs more preparation time or wants to reassess conditions.

Neither option is automatically better. Compare similar properties that are currently for sale and those that have recently sold, rather than relying on a general rule about the calendar.

What should I organise before listing in December?

Start by checking whether your home is ready to present well and whether you have enough time to make decisions during a busy period. Before committing to a campaign, it is worth:

• Reviewing recent comparable sales and active listings in your immediate area.
• Discussing a realistic price guide and marketing approach with your agent.
• Checking when inspections can be held and who will respond to buyer enquiries over the holidays.
• Confirming the availability of your conveyancer or legal adviser and other services you may need.
• Considering whether your preferred moving and settlement arrangements are flexible.

If any part of the process would feel rushed, a later launch may be the more practical choice.

What if I am buying rather than selling in December?

A smaller selection of homes can be frustrating, but it can also make it easier to focus on properties that meet your needs. Keep your finances and buying criteria clear, and do not assume that a home listed near Christmas must be discounted. The seller’s circumstances, the property’s condition and comparable sales still matter.

Check the contract and get appropriate professional advice before signing. Holiday opening hours may affect how quickly finance, inspections and legal enquiries can be arranged.

Common questions

Will my home sell faster if I list in December?

Not necessarily. Fewer competing listings may help visibility, but sale time depends on pricing, buyer interest, presentation and the local market.

Do buyers stop attending inspections before Christmas?

Some people step back from their search, while others continue. Ask what inspection enquiry looks like for comparable homes in your area before deciding on a campaign.

Should I wait until February to sell?

Only if waiting better suits your readiness and the likely market for your home. Compare the options using current local evidence, not a fixed rule that one month is always better.

So, is December the right time for my property?

December is worth considering, not dismissing. A smaller pool of competing listings and buyers with clear plans can create opportunities, but they need to be weighed against holiday disruptions and current local demand. We can help you work through the relevant questions for a home in Melbourne’s south-east, so your timing reflects your circumstances rather than the season alone.

Sources

• SQM Research, National Property Listings, December 2025 (published 5 January 2026)
• REIV, January 2026 market commentary
• REIV, October 2026 market commentary