The holiday season is one of the most exciting and chaotic times of the year. Between travel, family gatherings, school breaks, and end-of-year deadlines, it’s easy for real estate transactions to slow down or slip off track. But with a little preparation and clear communication, buyers, sellers, and agents can keep everything moving smoothly toward a successful closing. Here’s how to stay on top of your transaction during the busy holiday season.
- Communicate Early and Often
This time of year, everyone’s schedules get a little unpredictable. Let your agent, lender, escrow officer, and anyone else involved know your holiday plans as soon as possible. Ifyou’ll be out of town or unavailable, set expectations about the best way to reach you and respond quickly to anything time-sensitive. - Stay Ahead on Paperwork
Delays are most common when documentsaren’t signed or returned in time. During the holidays, offices may have limited hours and response times may be slower. Make a checklist of everything you know you’ll need to review or sign and tackle it early. Electronic signatures make this easier than ever — but don’t wait until the last minute. - Keep an Eye on Deadlines
Inspection periods, appraisal windows, loan milestones, and HOA approvals can all be affected by holiday closures. Your agent or escrow officer can help you keep track of your keydates so nothing sneaks up on you. When possible, get appointments scheduled in advance to avoid the year-end rush. - Prepare for Possible Delays
While everyone works hard to keep transactions moving, the holidays naturally come with slower turnaround times from lenders, title companies, county recorders, and even contractors. Build a little buffer into your expectations and stay flexible if a timeline needsadjusting. - Lean on Your Escrow and Title Team
A strong escrow and title team can make all the difference. They coordinate behind the scenes,monitor deadlines, communicate with all parties, and keep your file progressing even when the world outside feels hectic. If questions or concerns pop up, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at ROC.
With thoughtful planning and the right support, you can absolutely close smoothly during the holiday season. Stay proactive, keep communication flowing, and enjoy the process, even during the busiest time of the year!