The fourth quarter told a clear story: inventory dropped, demand stayed steady, and sellers regained leverage at the exact moment most people were checking out of the market.

If you’re selling in December, that dip is your gift.

Here’s why Q4 inventory patterns are creating one of the strongest December seller markets in recent years.

1. Inventory Fell, But Buyer Motivation Didn’t

Across Los Angeles County, active listings fell 11–18% in Q4.
In Pasadena, the drop was closer to 15%.
In Los Feliz and Silver Lake, closer to 20%.
In Hancock Park? Nearly 22%.

But buyer showings did not decline at the same rate.
In fact, relocation-driven showings increased.

This creates a high-demand/low-supply imbalance that favors sellers.

2. October’s Surge Set Up a Strong December

We know October was the strongest month since February.
This means there is a backlog of buyers who:

• Didn’t win in October
  

• Haven’t found the right home
  

• Want to buy before January
  

• Are pre-approved and ready

These buyers are still searching.

3. Sellers Can Hold Pricing Power

With fewer competing listings, sellers gain:

• Higher list-to-sale ratios
  

• Faster DOM
  

• More negotiating authority
  

Especially in:

• Pasadena 91105
  

• Los Feliz 90027
  

• Silver Lake 90039
  

• Highland Park 90065
  

4. December Homes Photograph Better

Clear skies, warm light, and seasonal interiors create higher-impact media.
Media drives traffic.
Traffic drives offers.

5. Buyers Want to Close Before Year-End

Tax incentives, relocation schedules, and fresh-start psychology all push buyers to act in December.

FAQ

Q: Should I list in December or January?
A: December — less competition, more motivated buyers.

Q: Do homes really sell faster in Q4?
A: Yes — because inventory drops.

Get your December selling strategy → Jason Bergman – The Agency Pasadena.