New Year, New Strategy: What Smart Buyers & Sellers Are Doing Before January Hits

The week between Christmas and New Year’s is a quiet one — and that’s exactly why it matters.

While the holidays are winding down and routines haven’t fully restarted, many people are doing something important behind the scenes: thinking about what’s next. Not making rushed decisions. Not reacting to headlines. Just quietly reflecting and planning.

And in real estate, that’s often where the smartest moves begin.

Why This Week Matters More Than People Realize

There’s a common belief that real estate activity doesn’t really begin until January or even spring. But year after year, what we see locally tells a different story.

This time of year isn’t about urgency — it’s about clarity.

Buyers and sellers who use this window to prepare tend to enter the new year with:

• Clear expectations

• Stronger positioning

• More confidence

• Better outcomes

The calendar doesn’t magically reset the market on January 1st. People do.

What Smart Buyers Are Doing Right Now

Right now is not a pressure phase for buyers — it’s a conversation phase.

Instead of waiting until they find “the perfect house,” smart buyers are:

• Talking with lenders

• Getting pre-approved

• Understanding what price range truly makes sense

• Identifying priorities and deal-breakers

This preparation removes stress later. When the right home comes along, prepared buyers aren’t scrambling — they’re decisive.

Prepared buyers don’t chase homes. They choose them.

What Smart Sellers Are Doing Before the New Year

For sellers, this is one of the best times to get informed without feeling rushed.

Rather than committing to a list date immediately, proactive sellers are:

• Learning what their home is realistically worth

• Understanding buyer behavior right now

• Exploring timing options for early or spring listings

• Planning updates or staging strategically instead of emotionally

This knowledge helps sellers avoid common mistakes like overpricing, waiting too long, or entering the market when competition is at its peak.

The Market Isn’t Asleep — It’s Intentional

Yes, the market is quieter this time of year — but it’s not inactive.

Homes that are priced correctly are still selling. Buyers who are active are serious. Sellers who are on the market are motivated.

That combination often leads to:

• Cleaner negotiations

• Fewer emotional decisions

• Better alignment between buyers and sellers

When preparation meets opportunity, good things happen — regardless of the season.

The Takeaway Heading Into the New Year

You don’t need to make a move today to benefit from planning today.

Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, downsizing, or investing in the coming months, the steps you take now will shape how confident and successful you feel in 2026.

The real estate market rewards preparation — not panic.

If you’re ready to start the conversation, we’re here to help you build a strategy that fits your goals and timeline.

📲 Thinking of selling in Sutherlin or the surrounding Umpqua Valley? Reach out to The Mary Gilbert Group today to learn how we can help you make the most of Oregon’s 5-Day Market. 📞 For personalized guidance, reach out to our team at 541-229-8114 or visit us at www.marygilbert.com. We’d be honored to guide you home.