Success Strategies

Key Dates for Agents: Preparing for Year-End Closings and New-Year Marketing

By Lisa Gray

November 10, 2025

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:

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:

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:

These soft, service-based messages keep you relevant without sounding promotional.

Full Date-Based Calendar: Year-End Through January

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.