Minneapolis–St. Paul Divorce Real Estate: Should Clients List a Home During the Holidays?

Selling A Home
Written By Shannon Lindstrom

As the holiday season approaches, divorcing couples often ask whether it is a good—or risky—time to list their home for sale. As with most real estate decisions, the answer is nuanced: it depends. Across markets nationwide, consistent seasonal trends reveal both advantages and drawbacks that can help divorcing parties set realistic expectations and make informed decisions.

Advantages of Listing During the Holidays

Reduced Competition
National housing data shows that active inventory typically declines by 15–25% between late November and January. With fewer listings on the market, a properly priced and well-presented home can stand out, even during a slower season.

Highly Motivated Buyers
Holiday buyers are rarely browsing casually. Many are driven by job relocations, year-end transfers, school scheduling, or major life changes. This motivation often translates into more focused showings and smoother negotiations.

Inviting Presentation
In markets like Minneapolis–St. Paul, winter settings can create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Thoughtful lighting, clean staging, and subtle seasonal touches can help a home feel warm and appealing despite colder weather.

Challenges to Consider

Weather and Travel Disruptions
Cold temperatures, snow, and early sunsets can reduce foot traffic.

A Smaller Buyer Pool
Showing activity typically declines 20–40% nationwide in late December. Even qualified buyers may pause their search until the new year, extending timelines.

Holiday Décor Limitations
Holiday-themed photography can quickly become outdated once decorations come down. Additionally, highly personalized décor may detract from a neutral presentation and cause the home to look different from its online listing after the holidays.

What This Means for Divorce-Related Sales

Selling a home during the holidays is absolutely feasible when a divorce requires it. Success hinges on managing expectations and executing a disciplined strategy:

  • Timelines may extend slightly

  • Pricing strategy becomes especially critical

  • Condition and neutral presentation carry greater weight

  • Consistent communication between parties helps minimize holiday-related delays

Some properties perform exceptionally well during this season, while others benefit from waiting until mid-January. The optimal approach depends on location, property condition, urgency, and the dynamics of the divorce itself.

If you’re looking for a trusted professional who understands Minnesota real estate and the unique dynamics of divorce, I’m here to help. For those selling a marital home in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or the surrounding communities, hiring an experienced real estate expert like Shannon Lindstrom with RE/MAX Results—who is familiar with the complexities of divorce-focused transactions—can provide a more streamlined, informed, and balanced experience for everyone involved.

Shannon Lindstrom, Realtor®, CDRE®, MILRES, MRP, VCA
RE/MAX Results – Minneapolis & St. Paul Metro
7373 Kirkwood Court No, Ste. 300
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Direct: 612-616-9714
Lindstrom_S@msn.com
Shannon@ShannonLindstromRealtor.com
www.ShannonLindstromRealtor.com
www.ShannonLindstrom.info
https://www.ilumniinstitute.com/cdre/shannon-lindstrom
www.MNDivorceRealEstateExpert.com

Shannon Lindstrom

Shannon Lindstrom is a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE®) handling the sale of real property in Family Law Cases in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. Ms. Lindstrom is a reputable and accomplished Realtor known for her exceptional expertise in the real estate industry. In 2023, Ms. Lindstrom received her certification as a Divorce Real Estate Expert from the Ilumni Institute.

Ms. Lindstrom has established herself as a trusted advisor and resource for her clients. Armed with an in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market, she offers invaluable insights to both sellers and buyers, ensuring they make informed decisions with the information provided. Her extensive experience allows Ms. Lindstrom to offer impartial opinions on complex divorce real estate issues.

Throughout her successful career, Ms. Lindstrom has built strong relationships with her clients, earning their trust through her transparent and honest approach. Her strong negotiation skills have led to numerous successful transactions and satisfied clients. Ms. Lindstrom is uniquely positioned to serve divorcing parties and their attorneys by offering her objective and neutral expert opinion in low and high conflict divorce matters involving real property.

https://www.MNDivorceRealEstateExpert.com
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