Should You Sell Your Kitsap Home in December or Wait Until January?

A Market Breakdown for Local Sellers
By Wendy Crenshaw, Coldwell Banker Park Shore Real Estate

As the year winds down, many Kitsap homeowners begin asking the same question:
“Is it better to list my home in December, or should I wait until January?”

The truth is, both months offer unique advantages—and the right choice depends on your goals, your property, and current market conditions. Below is a clear, easy-to-understand breakdown designed to help Kitsap sellers make the most strategic decision possible.

Why December Can Be a Surprisingly Strong Month to Sell

Most people assume the real estate market slows to a crawl in December, but that isn’t the full story. Here’s why December can actually work in your favor:

Serious Buyers Are Still Actively Looking. Holiday buyers aren’t “just browsing”—they’re motivated. These are often buyers who may need to relocate for work, have been waiting for the right home or don’t want to compete in the busy spring market. Less foot traffic—but higher quality foot traffic.

There’s Less Competition from Other Sellers. December typically brings the lowest inventory levels of the year in Kitsap County.
Fewer competing homes means more attention on your property, especially if it’s well-presented and priced correctly.

For unique homes, waterfront, acreage properties, or homes with strong features, this reduced competition can be a major advantage.

Holiday Decor Creates Emotional Appeal. Thoughtful, neutral holiday staging can make a home feel exceptionally warm and inviting. Buyers browsing online see soft lighting, seasonal greenery and cozy, welcoming spaces. This is the time of year when buyers fall in love

Year-End Job Transfers Boost Buyer Demand. Kitsap’s military presence, government jobs, contractor positions, and tech-sector roles often come with year-end or early-year relocations. Many transferees begin home shopping in December—even during the holidays.

Why Some Sellers Prefer Waiting Until January

While December offers strong strategic advantages, waiting until January may be the better choice depending on your situation.

You Need More Time to Prepare Your Home. If you’re still decluttering, sorting belongings, or completing repairs, January allows you more breathing room. A polished home always outperforms a rushed listing.

Buyers Increase After the New Year. There is a noticeable rise in buyer activity every January. January often brings a stronger surge of online inquiries and showing activity.

You Want Updated Market Comparables. Fresh January sales data helps sharpen pricing accuracy—especially important in shifting markets. If your neighborhood has had winter or fall turnover, January comps may help you price more confidently.

Kitsap Market Snapshot: What Sellers Should Know

While every neighborhood behaves differently, here are consistent December–January patterns across Kitsap County:

December inventory is typically lower, giving your home more visibility.
January buyer activity often increases but so does listing competition.
Well-prepared, well-priced homes sell successfully in both months.
The “best” time is not universal—it’s specific to the seller’s goals and readiness.

So… Which Month Is Right for You?

Choose December if you want:

Less competition
Access to serious, motivated buyers
Emotional holiday appeal
Potentially faster time on market
To get ahead of the January listing surge

Choose January if you want:

More time to prepare your home
A broader buyer pool
Updated market data
A fresh start without holiday distractions

My Professional Recommendation

In Kitsap County, I’ve seen sellers succeed in both months—when the strategy fits their specific home.

The best next step is a quick conversation where we review:

Your property type
Your timing
Your market segment
Your moving goals
Current neighborhood demand

From there, I can advise whether December or January will best maximize your price, visibility, and stress level.

Thinking About Selling? Let’s Build Your Strategy.

If you’re considering listing soon—or just want to understand your timing options—I’d be happy to provide a personalized market review and preparation plan.

Wendy Crenshaw
Coldwell Banker Park Shore Real Estate
360-271-6743 | wendyc.com