Why Listing Your Utah Home Over the Holidays Could Be a Smart Move

When the holidays approach, many homeowners assume that the real estate market slows to a crawl—and some even take their listings off. But in Utah, and in many markets nationwide, winter can actually present a strategic opportunity to sell. Below, we explore key data points, local trends, and practical strategies showing why listing during the holiday season may give you an edge.

Utah’s Year-End Market Dynamics: What the Local Data Really Shows

Lower New Listing Activity, But Growing Inventory

According to the Utah Association of REALTORS®’ December 2024 Monthly Indicators, new listings declined by about 3.1% for the month. Meanwhile, total inventory increased by 8.0% year-over-year. That mix means fewer sellers are entering the market during the holidays, but many homes are still available—and that balances competitive pressures.

Months of Supply: What That Means for Sellers

As of early 2025, Utah's inventory stood at roughly 3.3–3.8 months of supply, depending on the report. In real estate, 5–6 months is typically considered a balanced market, so Utah’s supply remains tight—but not overheated. If you're selling now, you're not swimming in a sea of competition.

Rising Listings Are a Long-Term Trend—But Not Uniformly Spread

While Utah’s inventory has grown significantly in recent years, not all of that growth is evenly distributed. According to Utah Business, active listings as of mid-2025 reached 13,444, up 33% year-over-year. But this doesn’t necessarily translate to every market or every price point. The year-end dip in new listings gives motivated holiday sellers a chance to stand out.

Price Trends Remain Favorable

Median sales prices in December 2024 held strong. The Utah Association of REALTORS® reported a median of $500,000, up 5.3% year-over-year. That means despite the holiday timing, sellers aren’t necessarily giving up equity—if priced smartly.

Why Holiday Buyers Tend to Be More Motivated — And Why That Matters

Serious Buyers Aren’t Waiting for Spring

Many buyers who stick with their search during the holidays are doing it for a reason: job relocation, changing family needs, or deadlines. These aren’t casual browsers—they’re likely committed. That means counteroffers, negotiations, and faster closings are more possible.

Mortgage & Interest Rate Realities

Mortgage rates remain elevated, which has made some sellers hesitant to list and some buyers more cautious. Because fewer casual buyers are in the mix, motivated buyers now may have more negotiating leverage—and you may find fewer competing offers, but more serious ones.

Delisting Trends Suggest Strategic Sellers

Data from December 2024 indicates a spike in delistings—many sellers pulled their homes off the market temporarily. That’s not necessarily a bad thing: it shows some sellers expect better market conditions later, but you can take advantage now by filling that gap and capturing buyer attention while others pause.

Strategic Showing & Staging Tips for Utah Holiday Sellers

1. Design Smart Showing Schedules

You don’t have to say “yes” to every request. Coordinate with your agent to set limited, consistent windows for showings around your holiday plans. Use virtual tours for buyers out of town or those who want to preview before touring in person.

2. Leverage Subtle, Seasonal Staging

Staging works—and during the holidays, it can be especially powerful. According to a recent 2025 National Association of REALTORS® profile, staging can influence 60% of buyer perceptions. Agents report that staging the living room (37% of agents) and the primary bedroom (34%) makes the biggest impact on perceptions.
But less is more: keep décor tasteful, warm, and minimal. Avoid cluttered or overly festive displays that distract from the home itself.

3. Price With Precision

With fewer new listings and a slightly reduced pool of sellers, pricing your home right is more important than ever. Use local comps from your county or zip code, and lean on your agent to help you price within 1–3% of recent sales, not just listing prices.

4. Market with Intention

Invest in high-quality photos (especially winter-time lighting), virtual tours, and even 3D walkthroughs. Highlight cozy, “holiday-ready” features—fireplaces, winter landscaping, natural light—and emphasize the lifestyle potential of buying now.

When Selling in December Makes the Most Sense for Utah Homeowners

You should especially consider listing now if:

• Your home is move-in ready and well-maintained.

• You’re flexible on closing date but want to take advantage of motivated holiday buyers.

• You plan to do modest staging to highlight warmth and emotional appeal.

• You are working with an experienced local agent who understands Utah’s seasonality.

Bottom Line: This Holiday Season Could Be a Strategic Listing Opportunity for Utah Sellers

Putting your house on the market now isn’t just “making do”—it can be a smart, data-driven move. Utah’s seasonality, local inventory trends, and buyer behavior converge to create a window where motivated buyers and less competition give you leverage. With the right planning, pricing, and presentation, you could be closing shortly after the holidays—or even before.