Q: Denise, I have a seller who wants to put their home on the market  …  the week before Christmas!  What can I say to persuade him this is a bad idea?

A: Actually, it probably isn’t!  Rather than assume the holiday season is a bad time in your market, do some research.  When I was actively selling, I also assumed the holidays were a slow time – until I analyzed the market.  Not only are there buyers in the market in December, if they’re taking time from other holiday events to look at property they’re likely quite serious.  And houses which are decorated for the holidays can create a strong emotional bond with buyers.  So before you try to dissuade your seller, do your research.  I think you’ll be surprised at what you discover.