As the desert heat begins to soften and September ushers in Scottsdale’s most enviable season, many homeowners face a familiar question: Do I list my property now, or wait until after the holidays?
While waiting until January may feel like the “fresh start” approach, there are strategic advantages to positioning your home on the market in early fall—especially in our luxury and seasonal-driven Valley market.
Why September–October is Prime Selling Season
1. Seasonal Buyers Arrive
Our fall brings a wave of winter visitors and second-home buyers from across the country. With cooler weather, major sporting events, and a packed social calendar, Paradise Valley and Scottsdale see an influx of high-net-worth buyers scouting lifestyle-driven properties before year-end.
2. Less Competition
Many sellers hold off until January, believing spring is the “right” time. Listing before the holidays means your property has fewer comparable homes vying for attention, which can lead to stronger offers.
3. End-of-Year Motivation
Buyers relocating for business, investors seeking tax advantages, or families wanting to settle before the new year often act decisively in the fall. These are not casual browsers—they’re serious buyers with a timeline.
4. Showcasing Lifestyle
Arizona homes shine this time of year. Patios, courtyards, and outdoor living spaces come alive when the desert cools. A fall debut allows prospective buyers to experience the lifestyle your home offers, from Camelback Mountain sunsets to cozy firepit evenings.
Insider Tip: How Comps Affect Pricing
Real estate comps (comparable sales) are typically based on closings from the previous 90 days. That means:
- Selling in the fall: Your pricing is supported by summer sales, which often reflect stronger numbers and higher buyer activity.
- Selling in January: Your pricing is influenced by the quieter holiday season, when fewer sales typically depress comp values.
This timing nuance can have a meaningful impact on how your property is perceived and priced in the market.
Waiting Until the New Year: The Flip Side
If you delay until January, you may face:
- A more crowded market with new inventory.
- Buyers who are less urgent and more inclined to “shop around.”
- The missed opportunity of holiday visitors exploring with purchase intent.
- Pricing pressure from comps reflecting slower holiday sales.
While the new year always brings activity, early fall positions you ahead of the curve.
Luxe Client Group Perspective
At Luxe Client Group, we view fall as one of the Valley’s most strategic listing windows. With curated marketing, lifestyle-driven presentation, and Compass-exclusive tools, we ensure your property doesn’t just enter the market—it commands attention at the right moment.
Bottom Line: If selling is on your horizon, don’t wait until after the holidays. By listing this September or October, you can capture motivated buyers, benefit from limited competition, and showcase your home in its most desirable season.
