Do School Holidays Impact the Amount of Properties That Are for Sale?

When the school holidays roll around, many families shift their focus from work and routine to travel, rest, or simply spending time together. But if you’re keeping an eye on the property market, you may notice that things often feel a little quieter during these periods. So, do school holidays actually impact the number of properties for sale? The answer is yes – and the reasons come down to timing, buyer behaviour, and vendor strategy.

School holidays do have an impact on the property market, but it’s more about timing and strategy than an absolute stop

The Seasonal Rhythm of Real Estate

The property market has its own natural rhythm, with certain times of year consistently busier than others. Spring is traditionally the peak selling season, while December and January often see activity slow down due to summer holidays. Within that bigger seasonal cycle, school holiday periods tend to bring their own short dips in momentum.

For many vendors, launching a property campaign during school holidays isn’t ideal. They want as much attention as possible, and if buyers are distracted with family commitments or away on holiday, that attention is harder to capture.

Why Vendors Avoid Holiday Launches

Selling a property is all about timing and exposure. When a vendor lists their home, they want strong competition, full open-for-inspections, and maximum online engagement. During school holidays, however:

• Attendance drops at open homes – Parents may be away on family trips, or busy juggling kids at home.

• Agents see reduced enquiry – Fewer buyers are actively searching, meaning less initial momentum.

• Auctions risk lower turnout – Auction campaigns usually run for four weeks, and starting one in the middle of school holidays can affect the final crowd on auction day.

Because of this, many vendors choose to delay listing until after the holidays, creating a noticeable lull in new stock coming to market.

Buyer Behaviour During School Holidays

It’s not just sellers who adjust their activity – buyers do too. Many buyers put their search on hold while they focus on school holidays. Families are often travelling, visiting relatives, or managing school holiday programs for children. Even buyers without kids may step back slightly, knowing that the market temporarily slows down.

That said, some highly motivated buyers remain very active during the break. They may see the quieter period as an advantage, with less competition at inspections and auctions. Serious investors, first-home buyers, or those relocating for work may continue searching regardless of the calendar.

What Happens After the Holidays

The most noticeable effect of school holidays on the property market often comes after the holidays finish. Once routine resumes, there’s usually a surge of new listings as vendors who delayed their campaign hit the market. Buyers also return in greater numbers, and agents often schedule auctions for two to three weeks after holidays to ensure maximum attendance.

In short, school holidays don’t stop the property market – but they do temporarily slow it down. Both buyers and sellers tend to hold back, creating a softer pace followed by a bounce in activity.

What This Means for Buyers

If you’re a buyer, school holidays can be an opportunity. While there may be fewer properties to choose from, there’s also often less competition. If a property does come up that suits your needs, you may have a better chance of securing it without as many competing offers.

It’s also a great time to prepare – reviewing finance, refining your search, or engaging a buyer’s agent to line up off-market and pre-market opportunities before the post-holiday rush.

What This Means for Sellers

For vendors, the key takeaway is to think carefully about timing. Listing just before or during school holidays can limit buyer engagement, unless your property has a unique appeal that will cut through. Waiting until after the holidays usually ensures stronger competition, bigger crowds at open homes, and better sales outcomes.

School holidays do have an impact on the property market, but it’s more about timing and strategy than an absolute stop. Stock levels often dip, enquiry slows, and auctions attract smaller crowds. But once the holidays wrap up, momentum returns quickly, often with a burst of fresh listings and motivated buyers.

For both buyers and sellers, understanding these rhythms is an advantage. By planning around school holidays, you can position yourself strategically – whether that means taking advantage of a quieter market as a buyer, or launching your property campaign at just the right time as a seller.

📩 aly@walshbrownproperty.com.au

📞 0411 771 181

🌐 www.walshbrownproperty.com.au

*** Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only. While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content, it should not be considered as personalised or professional advice. The homebuying process can vary based on individual circumstances, property types, and location-specific regulations.