Melody Wagstaff
REALTOR®, MRP, ePro, C2EX, RENE, PSA
Realty Executives Associates
Melody Wagstaff, an experienced East Tennessee REALTOR® with Realty Executives Main Street, has seen consistent buyer activity between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Many residents assume this season slows down, although data trends and local behavior reveal the opposite. Motivated buyers remain active, and serious house-hunters continue scheduling showings even while juggling end-of-year events.
Holiday buyers often enter the market with strong intent, clear timelines, and flexible schedules. These individuals are not browsing casually. They are prepared to write offers when they find the right property.
Real estate transactions typically require 28 to 30 calendar days to close. Buyers who write offers in December usually finish the process in early or mid-January. This timing appeals to many East Tennessee residents who hope to begin the new year in a new home.
Buyers who currently rent or have flexible move-out dates often find this timeline ideal. They can celebrate the holidays in their current home and prepare for a seamless January transition. This behavior creates steady demand during a season many sellers incorrectly assume is slow.
Less competition among buyers can also increase the visibility of each listing. When fewer shoppers crowd the market, motivated buyers concentrate on the available homes and respond quickly to well-presented properties.
Melody frequently reminds East Tennessee sellers that holiday activity remains steady. If a buyer schedules a showing, the request usually reflects serious intent. Sellers who keep their homes available increase the likelihood of receiving strong offers.
Showings during the holiday season also benefit from natural staging. Warm lighting, clean décor, and a calm seasonal atmosphere can help buyers imagine themselves celebrating future holidays in the space. Homes often feel more inviting this time of year, which can support positive first impressions.
Melody educates local clients about the updated National Association of REALTORS requirements that took effect last year. Buyers must have a signed showing agreement with their agent before scheduling any appointments. This rule is not specific to Melody, Knoxville, or East Tennessee. It applies nationwide.
Sellers benefit from this shift because every buyer walking through the door has committed to working with a licensed real estate professional. The change helps ensure that showings involve qualified, intentional buyers rather than casual visitors.
The Knoxville metro area, Blount County, Anderson County, and surrounding East Tennessee communities continue to attract steady relocation interest. Many households prefer to complete a move early in the year. This trend keeps holiday buyer activity strong and supports sellers who list during November and December.
Local buyers also appreciate the chance to settle into a new home before spring. Holiday inventory levels often dip, which gives sellers an advantage. Properties that are priced well, photographed professionally, and marketed effectively can perform exceptionally during this window.
Holiday-season listings in East Tennessee benefit from:
Melody Wagstaff continues to guide East Tennessee sellers through every step of the process with clear communication, localized insight, and a focus on strong presentation. Sellers who remain open to holiday showings often discover that this season delivers meaningful opportunities and well-qualified buyers.
