By Salsberry Property Management | December Rental Market Guide
While many people slow down during the holidays, smart rental property owners know that December is not a dead month — it’s a strategic one.
Every year we hear the same concern:
“Should I just wait until January to list?”
In many cases, the answer is no — and here’s why understanding the holiday rental market can actually give you a competitive edge.
📉 Why the Rental Market Slows During the Holidays
Historically, rental activity does slow in late November and December. Fewer renters want to move during:
Christmas and New Year’s
School breaks
Colder weather
End‑of‑year travel
This slowdown is normal — and predictable. But slower doesn’t mean worse.
In fact, it often means less competition and higher‑quality applicants.
🎯 Opportunity #1: Less Competition, More Serious Renters
Renters who are looking in December usually need to move — job relocations, lease expirations, family changes.
That means:
Fewer casual browsers
More motivated applicants
Stronger decision‑making
Properties listed during the holidays often attract renters who are ready to commit quickly.
🔄 Opportunity #2: Strategic Pricing & Lease Timing
December listings allow owners to:
Capture tenants before the January rush
Align lease end dates with peak spring/summer demand
Reduce extended winter vacancy
Even pricing slightly below peak‑season expectations can outperform waiting vacant until spring.
A leased home always beats an empty one.
🛠️ Opportunity #3: Winter Maintenance Pays Off
The holiday season is ideal for:
HVAC inspections
Roof and insulation checks
Preventative plumbing work
Interior touch-ups
In Texas specifically, winter is also the most cost-effective time to replace an AC system. Demand is lower, HVAC companies are less slammed, and pricing is often the cheapest it will be all year.
Taking care of major HVAC work now can save owners thousands compared to peak summer replacements — and ensures your property is ready before the first heat wave hits.
Fewer move-ins mean easier scheduling — and proactive maintenance now prevents costly emergency calls later.
Owners who handle maintenance in December start January ahead of the curve.
📊 Opportunity #4: End‑of‑Year Planning = Better Returns
December is also a perfect time to:
Review annual rental performance
Analyze vacancy trends
Adjust pricing strategy for the new year
Plan upgrades that boost rent
This planning window is often overlooked — but it’s where strong rental portfolios are built.
🎁 Final Thought: Don’t Hibernate Your Investment
The holidays don’t mean hitting pause on your rental.
They mean:
Less competition
More serious renters
Better preparation
A stronger start to the new year
At Salsberry Property Management, we help owners navigate the seasonal market so your property performs year‑round — not just during peak months.
If you’re unsure whether to list, wait, or adjust strategy this holiday season, we’re happy to help you decide.
