Every year, as December rolls around, commercial real estate slows down, not because the opportunities disappear, but because of one persistent misconception: “The holidays are a bad time to buy, sell, or lease property.”
At SVN Summit Commercial Real Estate Advisors, we see it differently, because data, experience, and market behavior all point to the opposite.
The Myth: “No One Makes Real Estate Decisions in December”
It’s true that inboxes fill up and calendars slow down, but behind the scenes, serious deals are still being made. In fact, many of the smartest investors, landlords, and tenants use this time to position themselves for the coming year.
Here’s why the “holiday slowdown” is one of CRE’s biggest misconceptions, and how those who stay active often gain the most.
1️⃣ Less Noise, More Opportunity
When competitors press pause, proactive investors gain the spotlight.
December and early Q1 bring reduced market competition, fewer bidders, less pressure, and more negotiating power. Sellers looking to close by year-end may offer incentives, while landlords are often more flexible to fill vacancies before January.
In other words: the quieter the market, the louder your advantage.
2️⃣ Tax & Financial Positioning
End-of-year transactions can align perfectly with fiscal strategies.
Buyers can secure depreciation benefits and balance-sheet advantages, while sellers can strategically time capital gains. For business owners, purchasing or leasing before December 31 can unlock tax deductions that directly impact the upcoming filing season.
3️⃣ Real Planning Happens Now
December is when leaders think ahead. Investors review portfolios. Landlords reassess occupancy. Companies plan expansions.
Even if deals don’t close before the new year, this is the moment they begin — and the groundwork laid now often becomes Q1’s success story.
At SVN Summit CRE, we often say: strategy doesn’t take holidays — it takes foresight.
4️⃣ Stronger Relationships, Sharper Insights
While others step away, this season offers rare breathing room to deepen client relationships and evaluate market direction. Brokers can reconnect with clients, property owners can audit assets, and tenants can explore better lease terms with less competition.
The result? Smarter deals and stronger partnerships come January.
5️⃣ Momentum Matters
Starting the new year with deals in motion builds energy and confidence.
Ohio’s CRE market has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability, from adaptive reuse projects to new industrial expansions, and investors who plan ahead position themselves to move fast when opportunity strikes in early 2026.
As 2025 closes, the question isn’t whether to act, it’s whether you’re ready to move when others finally do.
The Takeaway: Opportunity Doesn’t Take a Holiday
The best CRE professionals know that markets reward momentum, not hesitation.
So while others wait for January to “get back to work,” we’re helping clients close gaps, strengthen portfolios, and start the new year one step ahead.
At SVN Summit Commercial Real Estate Advisors, we’re proud to guide investors, owners, and tenants through every season, because growth doesn’t wait for the calendar to turn.
📩 Ready to start the new year strong? Let’s talk today.