Most people believe Grand Rapids real estate December completely freezes over. Kids are home, snow is falling, and holiday bills are piling up. Yet the data in December 2025 tells a very different story — this month is actually one of the smartest times all year to make your move.
1. Buyers: Almost Zero Competition Right Now
More than 3,100 homes currently sit on the market in West Michigan. Many have lingered 60+ days. Because of that, sellers are getting anxious. Suddenly they’re offering to cover closing costs, leave appliances, or even carry the contract themselves just to close before January 1.
Bottom line? You can buy a house in Grand Rapids this December with less cash down and sweeter terms than you’ll see again until next winter — but only if you know your “why” for owning now.
→ Learn how we help buyers with bad credit or zero down
2. Sellers: Cash Out Your Equity Before the Calendar Flips
Home values in Grand Rapids remain up 2.1% in 2025 (Zillow). If you bought before 2024, you likely have $80k–$150k in equity. By selling before December 31 you can defer capital gains into 2026 or simply have cash in hand before the holiday spending hits your bank account.
Best part: today’s buyers are serious and ready to close fast. Boost your listing’s appeal with these photo tips to sell even quicker during the holidays.
→ Get your free same-day cash offer
3. Renters: Landlords Are Feeling the Pressure
West Michigan vacancy just rose to 6.0 % — the highest in over a year. As a result, landlords are now throwing in one or two free months, lowering deposits, and finally saying yes to real lease-to-own programs.
We have access to rent-to-own homes where your on-time rent builds real equity and locks today’s price — perfect credit is NOT required.
→ See the current rent-to-own list
4. Realtors: Bring Us Your “Impossible” Buyers This Month
Rates just dropped to 6.19 % — the lowest in over a month. Combine that with motivated sellers and our private-lender network and even 540-score buyers can close before Christmas.
We co-broker every single deal and always pay full commission. You keep your client; we handle the creative financing.
The December Superpower Nobody Talks About
Mortgage applications fall 30–50 % during the holidays. Consequently, appraisers, title companies, and inspectors have wide-open calendars. That means your closing can happen in 2–3 weeks instead of 6–8.
Last December deals were closed in 14, 16, and 19 days. This December we can schedule to close before Santa arrives.
Your One-Step December Game Plan (Just Pick Yours)
→ Buyers – Text “BUYER” to 616-263-1988 → pre-qualified this week (bad credit welcome)
→ Sellers – Text “DECEMBER” → same-day cash or creative offer
→ Renters – Text “RENT TO OWN” → instant list
→ Realtors – DM your toughest scenario → 24-hour answer + full commission
Grand Rapids real estate December 2025 isn’t slow. It’s simply quiet enough for the serious players to win huge.
Call or text anytime → 616-263-1988 (yes, we answer on Christmas Eve)
The market doesn’t shut down in December. It just gets quiet enough for the serious players to win big.
Let’s make this your most profitable (and joyful) Christmas season ever.
Call or text anytime → 616-263-1988 (We really do answer — even between Christmas and New Year’s)
Happy holidays and happy closings! Tricia & Scott Harmon CORE Property Investments
P.S. If you’ve ever closed a deal in December, drop your favorite holiday treat below. Peppermint bark vs. peanut-butter crispy balls — let the battle begin!
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