December Market Outlook: What Buyers and Sellers Should Expect

As we head into December, the Morristown and Morris County real estate market is showing the typical seasonal slowdown—but with some nuances that both buyers and sellers should understand.

Current Activity Levels

Right now, market activity is really low. We're meeting with plenty of buyers and sellers, but most aren't planning to make moves until spring. The buyers who are active currently tend to be in the early stages of their search, planning to make purchases in the new year rather than immediately.

The challenge for early starters: Even buyers who want to get a light start on their search are finding it difficult because there's simply not much inventory to look at.

Why Start Looking Now?

Despite the limited inventory, there are compelling reasons to begin working with an agent now:

Preparation takes time: There's substantial work we can do to prepare you for when the market picks up.

Spring hits fast: When the spring market arrives, it typically comes on quickly. Buyers who've done their homework have a significant advantage.

Strategic positioning: Getting ahead of the competition means being ready to act when the first wave of spring inventory hits.

Adapting to Low Inventory Environments

We've developed specific strategies for helping buyers in tight inventory markets:

Digital tours and market education: We can share recent sales data, show you what homes have sold for in different neighborhoods, and help you understand pricing and value.

Neighborhood reconnaissance: We guide buyers through tours of neighborhoods, looking at exterior characteristics and getting a feel for different areas even when specific homes aren't available to view.

Comparable analysis: By studying recent sales that would have appealed to you, we can help you understand what to expect when similar properties come available.

The Seller's Market Reality

For sellers, the current environment presents interesting dynamics:

Buyer demand still outpaces inventory: Even with low activity levels, we don't have an oversupply problem.

Motivated winter buyers: People searching for homes during the holiday season typically have strong reasons for their timeline.

Less competition from other sellers: Fewer homes on the market means less competition for buyer attention.

Spring Market Preparation

For both buyers and sellers targeting spring moves, now is the time to prepare:

Buyers should: Get pre-approved, understand target neighborhoods and pricing, develop clear priorities, and be ready to act quickly.

Sellers should: Consider improvements that maximize value, begin decluttering, understand current market pricing, and plan timing.

Taking Action Now

If you're thinking about a move in 2026, don't wait until spring to start the conversation. The preparation work we can do now makes a significant difference when it's time to act.

Ready to start preparing for your 2026 real estate goals? Contact The Bruen Team to begin the planning process.