December 2025 Market Update – Getting Listings Ready for the New Year
December is traditionally a quieter month for real estate activity in Johnston County, but it’s one of the most strategic months for preparing listings that will hit the market in early 2026.
While buyer activity dipped compared to fall peaks, new construction inventory remained strong across Smithfield, Clayton and Benson. This slower season gives Realtors the perfect opportunity to refresh photos, update marketing materials, and position listings to capture January’s surge in online views.
1. Book Early Photography to Beat the January Rush
January brings a flood of new listings. Getting photography done in December ensures you’re ahead of the curve — and first in line for buyer attention.
Best candidates for early photography:
Homes going live between January 2–15
Listings with strong curb appeal
New construction homes prepping for spring marketing
2. Use Holiday Decor Strategically
Tasteful decor can create warmth and emotional connection in photos. If the home feels cluttered, keep it minimal or remove holiday items entirely.
Goodlook can capture:
With-decor and without-decor photo sets
Clean twilight and daytime options to match your brand aesthetic
3. Refresh Stale Listings with Updated Visuals
If a property has been on the market since fall, December is the ideal time to update photos, swap lead images, or add drone or twilight imagery to re-engage buyers.
4. Use Virtual Staging for a Fresh New Year Look
Virtual staging is perfect for:
Vacant homes
New construction
Listings needing a visual reset
Properties launching in early 2026
Neutral, bright layouts perform best at the start of the year.
5. Conduct an End-of-Year Marketing Audit
Check all active listings for:
Outdated seasonal references
Missing media (drone, staging, twilight)
Low-performing lead photos
Inconsistent branding across platforms
Set Your Listings Up for a Strong 2026
December isn’t slow — it’s preparation season. By upgrading visuals and tidying your online presence now, your listings will stand out when buyers return in January.
FAQs – December Market & New Year Prep
Is December a bad month to list a home?
Not necessarily. Serious buyers remain active, and there’s less competition than in spring markets.
Can photos be taken while the home is decorated for the holidays?
Yes. We can capture both festive and neutral versions depending on your strategy.
What if my listing has been live since fall?
December is the ideal time to refresh photos, update the lead image, or add drone or twilight sessions to regain visibility.
Do drone photos still look good in winter?
Yes. With the right angles, winter drone imagery can highlight layout, acreage and location without distractions.
When should I schedule photography for a January launch?
Mid-to-late December ensures plenty of time for editing, uploads and scheduling.