VALLEJO, Calif. - TelAve -- While many homebuyers are advised to "wait until spring," Vallejo Realtor Bruno Versaci says December is quietly one of the most strategic times to buy a home—especially in today's changing real estate market.

"For years, buyers were told more inventory and better options would appear in spring," says Versaci. "Instead, they often found themselves competing, overpaying, and writing emotional offers."

The 2025 market tells a different story. Inventory has increased, homes are staying on the market longer, and buyer demand has thinned following interest rate increases over the past year. Yet December remains consistently overlooked.

"What slows down in December isn't the market," Versaci explains. "It's the noise."

Fewer Buyers, More Leverage

As many buyers pause for the holidays, those who stay active face significantly less competition. According to Versaci, December often brings fewer offers, more flexible negotiations, and the ability to walk away knowing other options exist.

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"Buyers aren't fighting ten other offers," he says. "That alone changes the conversation."

Holiday Sellers Are Typically Motivated

Homes listed during December are rarely casual. Sellers often have clear reasons for moving, including job relocations, financial timing, divorce, estate sales, or prior purchases requiring a fast sale.

"Motivated sellers lead to realistic pricing and productive negotiations," Versaci notes.

That motivation frequently opens the door to price reductions, closing cost credits, rate buydowns, repair concessions, and flexible closing timelines—terms that become harder to secure once spring activity returns.

Better Decisions Without the Rush

December buyers also benefit from more time to evaluate neighborhoods, review numbers, and make decisions without urgency.

"Spring buyers sprint," says Versaci. "December buyers think."

Homes often show well during the holidays, with warmer lighting and a lived-in feel that helps buyers assess how a property functions year-round.

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A Strategic Start to the New Year

Many December sellers are open to delayed closings, rent-backs, or extended possession, providing buyers with added flexibility.

"Trying to perfectly time the market rarely works," Versaci adds. "Buying when competition steps back usually does."

Bruno Versaci serves buyers and sellers throughout Solano, Contra Costa, and Alameda counties, with a specialty in off-market homes not publicly listed online. You can watch some of his youtube videos here: https://www.youtube.com/@brunoversacirealtor

When he takes a break, he enjoys running, fishing, hunting and spending time with his wife and 11 year old son.