Why I Love December in Real Estate (And Why You Should Too!)

Your December Check-In: Why The "Slow Season" is Your Time to Win in the DMV

December 8, 2025 | By Marina Sorbie

Hi everyone! As the holidays swing into full gear and I start stringing up my own lights, I want to take a moment to be completely honest about what's happening in our DMV real estate market right now.

If you've asked me lately, "How's the market?" my short answer is always the same: It's complicated, but full of opportunity for those who are smart about it.

The reality is that the market is squeezed from every angle and that includes the persistent effects of the 6.2% mortgage rate and the anxiety created by local federal job uncertainty. Buyers are cautious, sellers are hesitant, and the entire landscape is redefining itself.

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1. November Market Reality: Why It's Hard to Move Right Now

I know many of you are feeling the pressure of affordability, which remains the single biggest hurdle. Let's break down why things are sitting in a strange deadlock:

The Golden Handcuffs & The Pricing Stalemate

  • The Rate Barrier: With the 30-year fixed rate holding steady around the 6.2% mark, homeowners who locked in 2-4% rates during the pandemic simply can't afford to move up. This keeps precious inventory off the market.

  • The Price Correction: We've seen a surge in active listings (up approximately 35% year-over-year in the DC Metro area), giving buyers more options. The most telling data point? Nearly 45% of homes are now selling below list price. If you're looking to sell, we need to be surgical and honest about your price to attract the serious buyers.

Local Anxiety Easing, But Not Gone

  • The Uncertainty Factor: While we are relieved the government shutdown has been lifted, the underlying anxiety it created—combined with the economic uncertainty from federal job cuts here in the DMV has created a massive backlog of buyers. A job security question, even a subtle one, is an immediate "stop sign" for buying a home.

  • The Rate Relief Valve: All eyes are focused on the Federal Reserve's final meeting of the year on December 10th. If rates drop, we anticipate many buyers who paused during the uncertainty will quickly jump back into the market, as their purchasing power improves instantly.

My Insight: If a home is sitting, it's not because buyers aren't out there. It's because the market has moved, and we need to move the price to meet it. Buyers who are active right now are serious, qualified, and ready to negotiate.

2. Your December Advantage & What to Do Now

The holiday "slowdown" is actually your strategic advantage. This is what I tell my serious clients:

The Market Now Why It's Your Advantage
Less Competition: Everyone else is at holiday parties. You Get Leverage: You can tour without the crowds and negotiate without bidding wars.
Motivated Sellers: The homes listed now must sell. We Can Negotiate: Sellers are much more open to price adjustments and concessions right now.
Pent-Up Demand is Waiting: The moment rates ease, competition will explode. Position Yourself Early: Use December to get pre-approved and educated so you can jump first when the market shifts.

Your 2026 plan starts right now, while the pressure is off.

My Door is Always Open

As we navigate this complex, yet opportunity-rich, market, please know that my guidance is always available. I'm here to cut through the headlines, understand your unique financial position, and help you time things perfectly for your 2026 goals.

Let's grab a virtual coffee and talk strategy. Reach out today, I look forward to hearing from you!