Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

A well-lit living room with a marble countertop island, cabinet, golden chandelier and sofa set.

The Pros and Cons of Moving During the Holidays: Is December the Right Time?

Mike Doyle December 14, 2023

Moving during the holiday season comes with a unique set of considerations.
 
 
In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of making a move in December, helping you decide if it's the right time for your relocation journey.
 

Pros:

1. Lower Moving Costs

December is typically considered an off-peak season for moving, leading to potential cost savings. Moving companies may offer lower rates, and you might have more flexibility in scheduling services.
 

2. Tax Benefits

If your move is related to a job change, you may benefit from potential tax advantages. Consult with a tax professional to understand how your move could impact your tax situation.
 

3. Festive Atmosphere

Moving during the holidays can infuse your relocation with a festive atmosphere. Decorated neighborhoods and holiday events can make the transition feel more welcoming and joyful.
 

4. Time Off from Work

Many people take time off during the holidays, providing an opportunity for a smoother transition. If you have days off, you can use them for packing, moving, and settling into your new home without the pressure of work commitments.
 

5. New Beginnings for the New Year

Moving in December allows you to start the new year in a new home. It's a symbolic way to embrace fresh beginnings and set positive intentions for the upcoming year.
 

Cons:

1. Weather Challenges

Depending on your location, December can bring inclement weather conditions. Snow, rain, or cold temperatures may pose challenges during the moving process, affecting transportation and logistics.
 

2. Limited Daylight

December has shorter daylight hours, which can impact the moving timeline. Plan your move to maximize daylight hours, and ensure that you have proper lighting if you need to work during darker periods.
 

3. Holiday Distractions

The holiday season is a busy time for everyone. Coordinating a move amidst holiday preparations and festivities can be overwhelming. It may also be challenging to secure the services of moving companies due to increased demand.
 

4. School Disruptions

If you have children, moving during the holidays can disrupt their school schedule and holiday activities. Consider how the timing will impact your family and plan accordingly.
 

5. Limited Availability of Services

Some services, such as utility transfers and government office operations, may have reduced availability or longer processing times during the holiday season. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth transition.
 

Conclusion: 

Moving during the holidays has both advantages and challenges. Assess your individual circumstances, preferences, and the specific logistics of your move to determine if December is the right time for you. With careful planning and consideration, a holiday move can be a successful and memorable experience.

Recent Blog Posts

Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.

Redfin Joins the Parade of Housing Bears—How Does Their Prediction Stack Up?
Contract Cancellations Climb as Sellers Ready to Cut Deals

With sellers now outnumbering buyers in many cities for the first time in over a decade, investors are facing new opportunities and new risks.

The Rooms That Matter Most When You Sell

Now that buyers have more options for their move, you need to be a bit more intentional about making sure your house looks its best when you sell.

The Secret To Selling Your House in Today’s Market

A few years ago, homes were flying off the shelves and getting multiple offers well over their asking price. It felt like you could name your price and still have buye… Read more
Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of the Year

From rising home prices to mortgage rate swings, the housing market has left a lot of people wondering what’s next – and whether now is really the right time to move. … Read more
Paused Your Moving Plans? Here’s Why It’s Time To Hit Play Again

It’s not really a surprise that 70% of buyers paused their home search last year. Maybe you were one of them. And if so, no judgment. Conditions just weren’t great.

Don’t Miss This Prime Spring Window To Sell Your House

According to Realtor.com, the best week to list your house this year was April 13–19. And since that week has come and gone, you might be wondering: did I miss my chan… Read more
Why stock market turmoil is bad for California home prices

Beyond the economic hints the stock market offers, there's also the "wealth effect."

See where Orange County’s largest rent hikes are in 2025

Rents in Huntington Beach, Brea rose 2.5% in early 2025

View All

Let's Connect

For expert real estate services, reach out to Mike Doyle. Whether you're buying, selling, or renting, navigate the process with confidence. Contact him today to ensure a smooth and informed real estate journey.

Contact Mike
Get in Touch
Contact Details

MIKE DOYLE CA DRE #01758185

(949) 322-9934
[email protected]    

 

 

840 Newport Center Drive #100
Newport Beach, CA 92660