When does the fall real estate window close?

The fall real estate window typically narrows heading into the December holidays, when buyer activity and new listings both slow as families turn to travel and holiday plans instead of house hunting. Activity picks back up in January and accelerates into the traditional spring market. Exactly when that fall slowdown starts varies year to year based on interest rates, weather and local inventory rather than a fixed calendar date. Joel Boss tracks that timing each year rather than relying on a general rule of thumb.