Key Dates for Agents: Preparing for Year-End Closings and New-Year Marketing
Finish Strong, Start Smart
As the year winds down, smart agents know the last quarter isn’t about slowing down—it’s about strategic positioning.
While many agents take a break between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, the ones who stay visible through December often start January miles ahead.
A recent housing study from Stellar MLS reported that agents who maintained consistent client contact during Q4 saw 17% more early-year listings than those who went dark. Visibility now creates momentum later.
Here’s how to balance year-end closings, marketing, and preparation for 2026—with key dates, examples, and easy steps you can follow.
Mid-November–December: Close Confidently and Thank Generously
As the holidays approach, homeowners are distracted, and buyers may be racing to close before December 31 for tax or relocation reasons.
That makes mid-November through year-end your time to be proactive—not pushy.
Action Steps:
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Prioritize open files—communicate clearly with lenders, inspectors, and clients to ensure timely closings.
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Send gratitude-focused touchpoints to your sphere and past clients.
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Mail a “Holiday Market Update” postcard to your farm before December 15.
Sample postcard copy:
Headline: “2025 Was a Year of Change—Here’s What It Means for Your Home Value.”
Body: “As the year wraps up, local property values have shifted in interesting ways. If you’d like a quick snapshot of your neighborhood, I’m happy to share one—no strings attached. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season!”
Pro Tip: Use soft language around timing. People are still listening, just not ready to act. Stay present without pressure.
January: Be the First Voice They Hear in 2026
The first two weeks of January are a golden window for agents who want to plant seeds for new listings. Homeowners are goal-setting, decluttering, and re-evaluating plans.
That’s why the first marketing touch of the new year matters.
Action Steps:
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Send a “New Year, New Market” postcard or email by January 4.
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Offer a free “2026 Home Value Check” or “Spring Listing Plan.”
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Share market data from Q4 2025—keep it local and relevant.
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Schedule outreach calls to warm leads from fall who postponed decisions.
Sample postcard copy:
Headline: “New Year. New Market. New Opportunities.”
Body: “2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for homeowners in [your area]. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to move, let’s review your home’s updated value and explore your options before the spring rush.”
Pro Tip: Be visible across multiple channels—postcards, emails, social media videos, and handwritten notes. Repetition builds recall.
Key Marketing Themes That Work
To keep your brand consistent and educational, rotate content between these three themes:
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Market Clarity: “Here’s what’s happening and what it means for you.”
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Gratitude & Relationships: “Thank you for trusting me this year.”
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Future Planning: “Let’s make 2026 your year to move with confidence.”
These soft, service-based messages keep you relevant without sounding promotional.
Full Date-Based Calendar: Year-End Through January
| Date | Focus | Action / Campaign Example |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 15 | Q4 Refocus | Review active closings; send reminder to buyers about year-end tax timing. |
| Nov 20 | Holiday Outreach | Send “Thankful for You” emails or postcards to past clients. |
| Dec 1 | Market Update Prep | Order Holiday Market Update postcards; finalize mailing lists. |
| Dec 10 | Mail Campaign Drop | Send “Holiday postcard/Market Update back. |
| Dec 15 | Gratitude Push | Post a video message: “Reflecting on 2025 & What’s Ahead.” |
| Dec 20–24 | Light Touches | Text holiday greetings; schedule January follow-ups. |
| Jan 2 | New Year Kick-Off | Post “New Year, New Market” message on social & email. |
| Jan 4 | First 2026 Mailing | Send “Start the Year Strong” or “2026 Market Outlook” postcard. |
| Jan 7–10 | Client Check-Ins | Call or email top prospects: “Would you like a free market review?” |
| Jan 12 | Social Proof | Share a testimonial from a recent winter seller. |
| Jan 15 | Second Mailing | Send “Home Value Review” or “Early 2026 Market Trends” piece. |
| Jan 20–25 | Pipeline Review | Update CRM, re-engage older leads. |
| Jan 30 | Q1 Planning | Plan February community mailer or local event invite. |
Make It Easy on Yourself
If you’re short on time, use automated campaigns. Tools like ProspectsPLUS! Scheduled Campaigns let you plan your Q1 2026 postcard campaigns in minutes. You can customize your designs, set your drop dates, and stay consistent—without lifting a finger after setup.
🎯 Schedule Your Year-End & New-Year Mailings →
PLUS: When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.
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
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
