Success Strategies

How to Move Winter Fence-Sitters Forward (Without Pressure or Pushing)

By Lisa Gray

January 09, 2026

Winter creates a unique kind of seller mindset. Homeowners aren’t inactive—they’re observant. They’re watching the market, noticing headlines, and quietly deciding who they’ll trust when the timing feels right.

These are winter fence-sitters, and how you show up now directly impacts who they call later.

Understand What Winter Fence-Sitters Are Really Thinking

Most fence-sitters aren’t saying “no.” They’re saying “not yet.” Their hesitation usually comes from uncertainty—pricing, timing, or fear of making the wrong move.

Your role isn’t to persuade; it’s to reduce uncertainty through calm, helpful communication.

Lead With Education, Not Urgency

Winter is the perfect season for educational marketing. Market updates, home value checkups, and short reports help homeowners feel informed without feeling pressured.

When you consistently answer the questions they’re already asking, you become the obvious next call.

Messaging idea:

Consistency Builds Trust While Others Pause

Many agents go quiet in winter. Staying visible—without being salesy—creates contrast. A monthly postcard, newsletter, or scheduled campaign reassures fence-sitters that you’re steady, prepared, and paying attention to the market year-round.

Example touchpoints:

Invite Conversation, Don’t Force Decisions

Your winter marketing should open doors, not close them. Soft calls-to-action like “Let’s talk when you’re ready” or “Happy to share insights anytime” keep the relationship comfortable and ongoing.

Messaging idea:

Fence-sitters don’t move because they’re pushed. They move because they feel confident. When spring arrives, the agent who consistently educated, reassured, and stayed present is the one they trust.

Launch a Geographic Farm Scheduled Campaign and stay in front of your market throughout 2026 without effort, Here →

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PLUS: When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.