Why January Is the Smartest Time to Buy or Sell in Scottsdale

By Charles DeLong, The DeLong Group

Most people think of spring as the prime season for real estate. In Scottsdale, that’s only partially true. The reality is, January often presents some of the clearest opportunities for buyers and sellers—and anyone who waits for the spring rush is leaving leverage on the table.

Our market operates on a seasonal rhythm unique to Arizona. Snowbirds arrive. Seasonal residents settle in. Relocating buyers are ready to act. Motivated sellers list early. For those who understand these dynamics, January isn’t slow—it’s strategic.

Here’s why I tell my clients that early action in Scottsdale sets the tone for the year.

Why Buyers Should Make Their Move in January

January buyers are serious, focused, and prepared. This isn’t window-shopping season—this is decision season.

1. Less Competition, More Control

Unlike March or April, January brings fewer buyers and fewer listings. That means:

• Fewer bidding wars

• Clearer visibility on available properties

• More time to evaluate homes thoughtfully

This smaller pool gives buyers negotiating leverage and the ability to select without being rushed.

2. First Access to Fresh Listings

Many sellers who list in January are motivated—they’re relocating, timing a move with another property, or responding to a seasonal shift. Early buyers get first access to:

• Prime homes before spring inventory floods the market

• Properties that won’t last once the spring surge hits

• A chance to act decisively rather than react to crowded competition
  

3. Serious Buyer Pools Drive Better Deals

January buyers aren’t casual. They’re snowbirds, job transfers, or investors actively looking. This means offers tend to be stronger, inspections move faster, and deals close more efficiently.

Why Sellers Benefit from Early-Year Listings

For sellers, January is a chance to maximize attention and outcomes before the market gets crowded.

1. Access to Motivated Buyers

Winter buyers in Scottsdale aren’t browsing—they’re ready to act. Many are seasonal residents seeking second homes or lifestyle properties. Listing in January puts your home in front of people who are serious, prepared, and ready to move.

2. Faster Sales, Less Market Noise

With fewer homes on the market, early-year listings stand out. Benefits include:

• Shorter days-on-market

• Cleaner negotiations

• A faster, more predictable path to closing

3. Pricing Advantage Before Spring Saturation

January allows sellers to set pricing in a stable environment. With less reactive pressure from spring listings:

• You maintain control over your asking price

• Appraisals are more likely to align

• Serious buyers engage without inflated competition

Scottsdale’s Winter Market in Context

Scottsdale is unlike most U.S. markets. Our winter months are busy for a reason: seasonal migration, lifestyle-driven buying, and relocating professionals converge in December through March. Acting in January positions buyers and sellers ahead of the spring rush.

• Buyers secure selection, leverage, and smoother negotiations.

• Sellers enjoy visibility, faster sales, and more disciplined pricing.

Understanding this seasonal rhythm is the difference between reacting to the market and leading it.

The Takeaway: Early Action Pays

January is more than the start of a new year—it’s a strategic advantage. Buyers gain negotiating power and first access. Sellers gain exposure and faster sales. Transactions are smoother, deals are cleaner, and both sides win.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Scottsdale, the time to act is now. A smart strategy executed in January positions you for the best possible outcomes before the market heats up.

— Charles DeLong
The DeLong Group