Why December Is Actually the Best Month to Buy Real Estate (Yes, Really!)

When most people think about buying real estate, they picture spring open houses, busy showings, and packed lineups at new presale launches. But here’s the truth: December is one of the best and most overlooked months of the year to buy real estate, whether you’re a first-time buyer, an investor, or someone looking for a presale or new construction home.

If you want more negotiating power, better pricing, and access to developer incentives that rarely surface in busier months, keep reading. December is your window.

1. December = Fewer Buyers and Less Competition

The market slows down every December (consistently, year after year). Most buyers hit pause because they’re focused on holidays, travel, or waiting until the “spring market.” As a result:

• Showings drop

• Offers disappear

• Sellers become more flexible

• Buyers gain leverage they don’t get in peak months

Less competition means you can take your time, negotiate stronger terms, and avoid the busier market that starts to return in February and March.

2. Only Serious Sellers Are Left in December

If a property is still listed in December, that seller likely has a real reason to sell. These aren’t “test the market” situations, these are motivated households who want certainty before the new year.

This often translates into:

• Price reductions

• More openness to negotiation

• Willingness to accept flexible dates

• More favourable conditions for buyers

For anyone entering the market, December gives you access to sellers who are ready to make a deal.

3. Developers Offer Their Best Year-End Presale Incentives

If you’re shopping for a presale condo or new construction home, December is arguably the single best month to buy.

Here’s why:

• Developers want to hit year-end sales targets

• They need a certain number of units sold to secure project financing

• They often clear unsold inventory before launching new phases

This is when you’ll see their biggest incentives, such as:

• Lower prices or price adjustments

• Reduced deposits

• Flexible payment structures

• Credits at completion

• Free upgrades or closing cost assistance

These offers usually disappear in the spring when buyer traffic surges again.

4. Buy in December, Move in March or April

One of the biggest misconceptions is that buying in December means you’re stuck moving in freezing weather. Not true.

You can:

• Negotiate a spring completion date

• Buy a presale and move years later

• Lock in pricing now and enjoy a smoother, warmer move when the weather improves

This gives you the best of both worlds:
Secure the deal now. Move when it’s comfortable.

5. December Is a Strategic Month for Investors

Investors benefit even more:

• Lower purchase prices improve cashflow

• Better entry PPSF on presales increases long-term ROI

• Less competition from other investors

• Year-end timing may align with tax planning

If you’re building a real estate portfolio, December is one of the most favourable entry points of the year.

Final Thoughts: December Is the Market’s Best Kept Secret

While most people wait for the spring market and end up competing with everyone else, savvy buyers and investors take advantage of December’s quiet conditions.

Motivated sellers.
Developer discounts.
Less competition.
More negotiation power.
Easier move-in timelines.

If you’re considering buying or investing, especially in a presale or new construction home. December is when the best opportunities quietly surface.

Want a curated list of the top December opportunities?

I can send you a personalized list of:

• The best presale incentives available right now

• New construction homes offering year-end pricing

• Resale properties with highly motivated sellers

Just reach out and I’ll send options tailored to your goals.