Buying or Selling Real Estate in December & January: Myth Busting the Winter Market

Let’s talk about cold-weather real estate! If you’ve ever heard someone say “nobody buys or sells homes in the winter,” you’re catching one of real estate’s longest-running myths. While spring and summer see the most activity, December and January aren’t just a real estate hibernation, they can offer unique opportunities and challenges for buyers and sellers across Canada and especially here in Nova Scotia.

What is the real estate market like over the festive period?

Myth #1: “No One Lists or Buys in Winter”

Wrong! While it’s true the overall market slows, activity doesn’t come to a halt. In fact, January often brings a bounce-back from the December lull, with new listings jumping substantially, sometimes by 11% or more across Canada. Sales may dip slightly, but motivated buyers and sellers are always active, especially if they didn’t seal a deal before the holidays. Nova Scotia sees the lowest average home prices of the year in these months (about $60,000 below summer’s peak in 2025), making winter a time when bargain hunters may find better deals and less competition.

Myth #2: “Home Prices Are Always Lower in Winter”

Not always true - although there’s often less demand, sellers in Nova Scotia and elsewhere may price homes more attractively to boost winter interest. 2025 data shows January prices averaged around $440,000 in Nova Scotia, lower than summer but still historically high. Winter buyers may have more negotiating power, while sellers willing to wait may benefit from a smaller but more serious pool of buyers. So, don’t expect rock-bottom deals, but watch for seasonal flexibility.

Myth #3: “Nothing New Comes to Market”

Actually, the number of new listings often rises sharply in January as sellers eye spring and want an early jump on the market. In Halifax, for example, January 2024 saw 414 new listings, up 160% from December! Inventory remains tight, but winter's boost means fresh options for buyers who aren’t afraid of snow boots and shorter days.

Myth #4: “It’s All Doom and Gloom for Sellers”

Far from it. Savvy sellers use winter’s slower pace to make their listings stand out. Decorated homes can feel cozier, creating emotional connections, and buyers searching in winter are usually motivated, often having deadlines, like relocation for work, or are driven by life changes. Agents have more bandwidth to focus on each listing, giving sellers an edge in marketing and negotiation.

Nova Scotia’s Winter Real Estate Realities

Nova Scotia’s winter market feels the same seasonal rhythm, but recent years have seen continued demand driven by relocations, lifestyle changes, and competitive pricing. Prices have climbed compared to pre-pandemic years, and the market is showing signs of steadier seasonal patterns with sellers and buyers finding more balance and less frenzy.

Conclusion: Winter Isn’t Just a Waiting Period

Sure, it’s colder, and you might have to shovel a walkway before showings. But buying or selling in December and January can mean less competition, more negotiation power, and some unique opportunities for those who don’t wait for spring’s crowd. So, bust the myths, if you’re ready, winter might be the right time for your big move!

Buying and selling of real estate in Nova Scotia doesn't stop over winter!