The Short Answer
During the holidays, Markham sellers can keep showings while protecting family time by setting clear showing windows, blocking key dates such as Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Yearās Day, and asking for at least a few hoursā notice. Accept serious requests, including second showings and short-notice visits from qualified buyers. It is reasonable to decline late-night requests and showings during a family gathering. Keep decorations simple, secure valuables and gifts, and keep walkways clear of snow and ice.
Selling over the holidays? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Why Holiday Showings Are Different
Fewer homes are listed in December, so buyers who are out shopping are often serious, such as relocating families or buyers with a deadline. In Markham, active listings fell from 1,036 in November 2025 to 725 in December. At the same time, sellers have guests, travel and celebrations.
Michael John Lau, a REALTORĀ® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, helps holiday sellers set showing rules that balance family time with real buyer interest.
Questions About Selling This Winter?
Every familyās holiday calendar is different. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 and speak to a REALTORĀ® who works this market daily.
What to Allow and What to Decline
Usually allow | Reasonable to decline or reschedule |
|---|---|
Second showings from interested buyers | Showings during a family dinner or party |
Short-notice requests from qualified buyers | Late-night requests after your set window |
Weekend afternoon showings | Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Yearās Day |
Showings with an inspector or family member before an offer | Requests without a confirmed buyer agent |
Neeraj Moolchandani on Holiday Showings
Neeraj Moolchandani, REALTORĀ® at Kaizen Real Estate, asks holiday sellers for their family calendar before the first showing goes out.
Blocking a few dates up front means fewer awkward declines later, and buyer agents appreciate knowing the rules.
Set Clear Showing Windows
- Choose daily windows, such as 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Ask for two to four hoursā notice.
- Block dates for gatherings in advance and tell your agent early.
- Allow 30 to 45 minutes per showing.
Clear rules make it easier for buyer agents to plan, which helps your home get seen.
Guests, Gifts and Security
- Put gifts, mail, keys and medications away.
- Let house guests know when showings are booked.
- Keep pets out of the home or contained during showings.
- Use your agentās showing system so every visit is recorded.
Want a Holiday Showing Plan?
The Kaizen Real Estate Team can set showing windows and a holiday strategy that fits your family and your sale.
Decorating for Showings
Holiday decorations can make a home feel warm, but keep them simple. A tree, a wreath and soft lighting help; crowded displays make rooms look smaller and distract from the home. Leave photos from before the holidays on the listing, and avoid covering features buyers want to see.
Winter Safety and Curb Appeal
- Clear and salt walkways, steps and the driveway.
- Turn on exterior lights for evening showings, since sunset is around 4:45 p.m. in December.
- Keep the home warm and the entry tidy for boots and coats.
- Leave a mat and a spot for shoes.
See preparing a Markham home for winter showings.
Stay Listed or Pause?
Some sellers pause their listing over the holidays and relaunch in January. Others stay active to reach serious winter buyers. Either can work. See listing before or after the holidays. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information to plan your holiday season.
Next Steps
- Request a free home evaluation: see what your home is worth this winter.
- Markham neighbourhood guide: see how your area is selling.
- Buying your next home: plan both moves.
Work With Michael John Lau in Markham
Michael John Lau helps Markham buyers and sellers turn market numbers into a clear plan for their own situation. That means looking past city-wide averages to recent sales on your street, explaining the reasoning behind every recommendation, and making sure you have the information you need to decide with confidence.
š Contact Michael John Lau, REALTORĀ®
š www.callmikelau.com
š” www.livinginmarkham.ca
š¢ www.kaizenrealestate.ca