Why End-of-Year Planning Matters

The final quarter of the year can feel overwhelming for real estate agents—but it’s also one of the best times to position yourself for new listings.

Homeowners are reflecting on finances, planning for the year ahead, and considering moves that align with life changes. By staying ahead of seasonal milestones, you can finish the year strong and start the next with momentum.

November: Holiday Outreach & Client Care

November is the time to strengthen your sphere. Holiday postcards, recipe cards, or client appreciation events help you stay visible while building goodwill.

According to NAR, 80% of buyers and sellers work with the first agent they connect with, so consistent, relationship-driven outreach this season pays dividends.

Sample Script:
“Hi [First Name], as we head into the holidays, I just wanted to wish you and your family a wonderful season. If you’d like a quick update on your home’s current value, I’d be happy to send it over—no obligation, just useful info for your plans.”

December: Market Updates & Business Planning

December is an ideal time to share year-end market updates with your farm. A clear snapshot of sales trends and equity values helps homeowners see you as the go-to advisor.

It’s also your chance to finalize your business plan for the new year. Setting goals, creating a Q1 marketing calendar, and scheduling campaigns now ensures you hit January prepared, not scrambling.

Sample Script:
“Hi [First Name], I just finished preparing a year-end market update for [Neighborhood]. It’s a quick look at home values, average days on market, and what’s trending. Would you like me to drop a copy in your inbox?”

Early January: Tax Prep & Recordkeeping

While technically a new-year task, smart agents use December and early January to prepare. Organize receipts, mileage logs, and marketing expenses to avoid a last-minute scramble at tax time.

Good recordkeeping also helps you measure ROI on your marketing efforts and refine your strategy moving forward.

Sample Script:
“Hi [First Name], many of my clients are gathering tax records right now. If you’d like a simple report on how your home’s value changed in 2025, I’d be glad to prepare one for you—it can be useful for planning.”

Key Takeaway

A little preparation today creates less stress tomorrow. By aligning your calendar with these key dates, you’ll strengthen relationships, showcase your expertise, and maintain a full pipeline through the holidays and beyond.

👉 Pro Tip: Pair these dates with scheduled postcard campaigns—like Holiday Postcards, Market Updates, or Recipe Cards—to stay consistently in front of your farm.

Start a Scheduled Campaign Now →

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

1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazine

Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card! – Click Here

2. The Free 2025 Q4 Real Estate Marketing Guide

Kickstart 2025 with our Quarterly Real Estate Marketing Guide to help you achieve your real estate business goals. Packed with tools like a goal-setting sheet, monthly insights, tailored task lists, and marketing recommendations, this free guide is your ultimate resource for success—download it today for FREE! – Click Here

3. The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Plan

The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Plan allows you to enter your business goals for the remainder of the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your goals.   – Click Here