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Winter Real Estate Myth-Busters: What’s Actually True in December

December 01, 20253 min read

❄️ Winter Real Estate Myth-Busters: What’s Actually True in December

By Kristina, your clarity-first, heart-led Realtor in the western suburbs

Winter in the Chicago suburbs always slows me down in the best way. My house feels a little cozier, the candles burn a little longer, Scott and I fall into our holiday routines, and Venti turns into my emotional support blanket while Holly watches us like she’s secretly judging the whole operation.

And every winter — without fail — I hear the same myths about selling a home this time of year. Myths that sound reasonable, but honestly? They’re the same myths that keep people stuck waiting for “perfect timing” instead of making aligned decisions that actually move them closer to the life they want.

So let’s bust them. Kristina-style: honest, simple, and with actual clarity you can use.


❄️ Myth #1: “No one buys in December.”

Ohhh, if I had a dollar for every time someone said this, I’d be writing this from a beach.

Here’s the truth:
People absolutely buy in December.

In fact, winter buyers tend to be:

  • relocating for January job starts

  • serious and ready to pull the trigger

  • motivated by financial planning and year-end goals

  • done waiting for “someday”

December isn’t dead — it’s just focused. You get fewer showings, but stronger buyers. And strength matters.


❄️ Myth #2: “Winter is the slowest time of year.”

Winter isn’t slow — it’s quiet.
And quiet can be a strategic advantage.

In winter:

  • inventory is lower

  • buyers have fewer homes to choose from

  • motivated buyers stand out

  • your home isn’t competing with 17 “For Sale” signs on your block

Quiet doesn’t mean nothing is happening. It means the noise is gone… which makes your listing stand out more.


❄️ Myth #3: “Homes don’t show well in winter.”

Listen — I’ve walked into homes in winter that felt like a Hallmark movie. Warm lighting. Cozy textures. Clean entry. A little winter greenery. A home that makes you want to stay for a cup of hot cocoa.

Winter can actually make a house feel:

  • warm

  • inviting

  • lived-in

  • peaceful

And if you know me, you know I don’t take photos or marketing lightly. My 79-point marketing plan doesn’t care what month it is — your listing will shine regardless of the season.


❄️ Myth #4: “No one wants to move during the holidays.”

People move whenever life tells them to move.

And the holidays? Honestly, sometimes they make it easier:

  • people already have time off

  • kids are between school semesters

  • families want a fresh start for the new year

  • transfers and promotions often start in January

  • buyers have financial motivation to act now

Do some people prefer not to move in December? Sure.
But many absolutely do — and they do it every year.


So… is winter actually a good time to sell?

The real answer?
It’s a good time to sell if it’s the right time for you.

I’ve rebuilt my life enough times to know this:
Waiting for the “perfect” timing keeps people stuck.
Making aligned decisions based on clarity… that changes lives.

If you’re planning to move in early 2026, winter is the perfect time to start prepping.

If you’re thinking of selling sooner, there might be a real opening for you right now.


Need help figuring out your next step?

Let’s talk through it — calmly, strategically, and with zero pressure.

👉 DM me anytime
👉 Or book a quick strategy session with me

https://calendly.com/alignedhomesbykristina

I’ll help you get clear on:

  • timing

  • equity

  • pricing strategy

  • prep work

  • what actually supports your bigger life goals

Because that’s what aligned real estate should feel like.
Warm. Clear. Intentional.
Not chaotic. Not stressful. Not rushed.

Here’s to cozy homes and clear decisions this winter. 💛

— Kristina
Aligned Homes by Kristina | Naperville + Western Suburbs
Your clarity-first homegirl, one winter myth at a time

Kristina Irvine is a top-performing Realtor® and Mortgage Loan Originator with a heart for helping clients align their real estate decisions with their bigger life goals. Recognized for her award-winning marketing strategies and a proven track record of results, Kristina brings clarity, confidence, and care to every transaction. As a Naperville local, dog mom, and community builder, she’s passionate about making the buying and selling process seamless—and ensuring every client feels supported from start to sold.

Kristina Irvine

Kristina Irvine is a top-performing Realtor® and Mortgage Loan Originator with a heart for helping clients align their real estate decisions with their bigger life goals. Recognized for her award-winning marketing strategies and a proven track record of results, Kristina brings clarity, confidence, and care to every transaction. As a Naperville local, dog mom, and community builder, she’s passionate about making the buying and selling process seamless—and ensuring every client feels supported from start to sold.

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