Is December a Good Time to Buy or Sell in Lake Tahoe? A Local Expert’s Guide

Just last week, I helped a family from the Bay Area close on their dream ski cabin in Incline Village. As we walked through the property during the final inspection, snow was gently falling outside, creating that magical winter wonderland that makes Lake Tahoe so special. “We never thought we’d be house hunting in December,” they told me, “but it turned out to be perfect timing.”

This conversation inspired me to share my insights about buying and selling in Lake Tahoe during December. After years of experience in our unique market, I’ve learned that while timing isn’t everything, it can make a significant difference in your real estate journey.

Current Market Snapshot: Winter 2024

Before diving into the seasonal advantages and considerations, let’s look at where our market stands:

• Median home prices are holding steady at $1.23 million
• Properties are selling at approximately 99% of asking price
• We’re seeing about 7 months of housing inventory, a significant shift from the tight market of recent years
• Mortgage rates continue to influence buyer decisions

Buying in December: The Hidden Advantages

Less Competition, More Negotiating Power

One of my favorite stories involves a client who secured a lakefront property last year, in December for $75,000 below asking price. Why? Because they were one of only two active buyers interested in that particular neighborhood during that time. December typically sees fewer buyers in the market, especially in our resort area where many potential buyers are focused on holiday activities rather than house hunting.

The Rate Advantage

Historical trends show that December often offers slightly lower mortgage rates, typically 0.2-0.25% below peak season rates. While this might seem minimal, let’s break down what this means for your investment:

• On a $1 million loan, a 0.25% rate difference could save you approximately $150 per month
• Over a 30-year mortgage, that’s a potential saving of $54,000

The “True” Winter Test

One unique advantage of viewing properties in December is seeing how they perform in winter conditions. You can:

• Check how well the heating system works
• Observe snow removal challenges
• Assess winter sun exposure
• Evaluate accessibility during snow conditions

Selling in December: Why It Might Be Your Sweet Spot

The Serious Buyer Pool

In my experience, December buyers tend to be more motivated. Last December, I sold three properties, and each buyer was ready to make decisions quickly. They weren’t “just looking” – they had specific reasons for their winter house hunt, whether it was:

• End-of-year tax considerations
• Relocation requirements
• Desire to be settled before ski season
• Investment portfolio balancing

Strategic Market Position

With about 7 months of housing inventory currently available, your property needs to stand out. December actually offers some unique opportunities:

• Less competition from other sellers
• Holiday decorations can enhance curb appeal
• Cozy winter ambiance creates emotional appeal
• Serious buyers mean fewer casual showings

Making December Work For You

Tips for December Buyers

• Be Prepared for Winter Viewing
• • Schedule viewings during daylight hours
  • Wear appropriate footwear for snow conditions
  • Allow extra time between viewings for winter driving

• Get Your Financing Ready
• • Pre-approval is crucial in winter deals
  • Understanding winter mortgage trends
  • Having funds ready for winter-specific inspections

Consider the Seasonal Aspects
Snow removal equipment and services
• Winter accessibility
• Heating system efficiency

Tips for December Sellers

• Winter Curb Appeal
• • Keep paths and driveways clear of snow
  • Ensure excellent outdoor lighting
  • Create a warm, inviting atmosphere

• Highlight Winter Features
• • Showcase winter views
  • Emphasize proximity to ski resorts
  • Demonstrate winter parking solutions

• Professional Photography
• Capture both summer and winter views if possible
  • Use twilight shots to showcase lighting
  • Highlight cozy interior spaces

Special Considerations for Lake Tahoe Properties

Location Matters More in Winter

Different Lake Tahoe neighborhoods have varying winter characteristics:

• Incline Village: Premium snow removal services
• South Lake: Better winter sun exposure
• Tahoe City: Excellent ski resort access
• Kings Beach: Level terrain, easier winter access

Price Point Variations

In our current market, different price segments are behaving differently:

• Luxury properties ($2M+): Less seasonal variation
• Mid-range ($800K-2M): More negotiation room in winter
• Entry-level (Under $800K): Still competitive year-round

Making Your Decision

The “right” time to buy or sell depends on your specific situation, but December offers unique advantages for both buyers and sellers. With current inventory levels at 7 months and properties selling at 99% of asking price, we’re in a more balanced market than we’ve seen in recent years.

For Buyers

Consider December if you:

• Want less competition
• Are looking for potentially better rates
• Need to complete a purchase this year
• Want to test a property’s winter performance

For Sellers

December might be ideal if you:

• Have a well-maintained, winter-ready property
• Want to attract serious buyers
• Can create a cozy, inviting winter atmosphere
• Have excellent winter accessibility

Ready to Make Your Move?

Whether you’re buying or selling, success in December requires proper preparation and local expertise. I’m here to help you navigate our unique winter market conditions and make the most of this special time in Lake Tahoe real estate.

Feel free to reach out for a more detailed discussion about your specific situation and how we can make December timing work to your advantage.