December in NYC: A Market That Doesn’t Hibernate
As the holiday lights go up and the city settles into its familiar end-of-year rhythm, I want to wish you and your family a warm and joyful holiday season. December has always been one of my favorite months in New York. The city feels both energized and reflective; a rare mix of momentum and stillness that gives us room to look back on the year while quietly preparing for what comes next. And, being from Nebraska, I do romanticize the holiday snow! So, let it snow!
In real estate, this duality is especially true.
While many assume the market hits the “pause” button during the holidays, that’s not actually what happens in New York City. Historically, the final weeks of the year reveal who the serious players are. Casual browsers step back, but motivated buyers continue to tour, make offers, and negotiate. Sellers who remain active often benefit from reduced competition and a more intentional pool of buyers. And behind the scenes, the early foundations of Q1 activity start to take shape.
This year, 2025, has been one of recalibration.
Buyers and sellers adjusted to interest-rate realities. Inventory finally broadened, giving buyers more choice. Pricing stabilized in several neighborhoods while remaining competitive in others. If 2024 was the year of hesitation, 2025 was the year of reopening; not a boom, not a surge, but a slow, steady re-entry into a more balanced market.
And now December becomes the hinge between what was and what’s coming.
Looking Ahead to 2026: A Quiet Advantage for the Prepared
The conversations I’m having across the table; with sellers, buyers, attorneys, mortgage advisors, and even neighbors I run into in the lobby ... all point to the same thing: 2026 has the potential to be a more opportunity-rich year.
We’re watching a few key signals:
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Expected interest-rate clarity early in the year
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A pipeline of buyers waiting for the right entry point
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Renewed motivation from sellers who paused during uncertainty
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A growing emphasis on pricing discipline and product quality
Those who begin preparing now will be positioned ahead of the curve.
If You’re Planning for 2026, December Is Your Advantage Window
If you or any family members, friends, or colleagues are considering buying, selling, or simply want guidance on how to position yourself for the 2026 market, this is the ideal time to start the conversation. December is when strategy matters most: reviewing comps, preparing financials, evaluating building metrics, tightening presentation details, and setting realistic timelines all create a cleaner, smoother, and more successful launch in the new year.
I’m here for those discussions whether you’re months away or just starting to explore possibilities.
The market doesn’t hibernate and neither does New York’s sense of possibility. Thank you for reading, for your trust, and for being part of this community of people who love this city as much as I do.
Wishing you a warm, restful holiday season and an energized, productive start to 2026.
All My Best — Gerald
Germany + Sears Team
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All best--Gerald Germany
