Holiday Rush Closings: How Empire Keeps December Deals on Track
Quick Answer: December Closing Success
Start early: Begin title work at least 30 days before your target close date.
Tax benefits: Closing before December 31 may provide tax deductions for the current year.
Holiday hours: Banks and courts close for holidays—plan around December 24-26 and 31-January 1.
Backup plan: Have flexibility in your schedule for unexpected delays.
Why December Closings Are Tricky
December is the busiest month for real estate closings. Buyers want tax benefits. Sellers want to start fresh in the new year. Lenders are processing a surge of year-end applications.
Add in holiday office closures and vacation schedules, and you've got a recipe for delays—unless you plan ahead.
2025 Holiday Schedule Impact
- • Christmas Eve (Dec 24): Limited bank & court hours
- • Christmas Day (Dec 25): Most offices closed
- • Dec 26: Reduced staffing
- • New Year's Eve (Dec 31): Early closures common
- • New Year's Day (Jan 1): Offices closed
Your December Closing Countdown
Start Title Work
Order title search and commitment. Allow time to resolve any issues.
Confirm Lender Timeline
Verify your lender can fund before your target date given holiday schedules.
Schedule Closing
Book your closing appointment. Avoid December 23-26 and 30-31 if possible.
Final Walkthrough
Complete inspection and confirm property condition before holidays.
Review Closing Disclosure
Verify all numbers match your expectations. Flag any issues immediately.
Tax Benefits of Year-End Closings
Mortgage Interest Deduction
Prepaid interest at closing is deductible in the year you close.
Property Tax Deduction
Prorated property taxes paid at closing may be deductible.
Points Deduction
Discount points paid to lower your rate may be deductible.
Consult Your Tax Advisor
Tax rules change. Get professional advice for your specific situation.
How Empire Title Handles the Rush
Extended hours: We stay late when needed to meet year-end deadlines.
Holiday coverage: Scheduled closings happen even during holiday week.
Digital documents: Remote options reduce in-person scheduling conflicts.
Early preparation: We start title work immediately to build in cushion time.
The Bottom Line
December closings are achievable—but they require planning. Start early, communicate with your team, and work with a local title company that knows how to navigate the holiday rush.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close on a house in December?
Yes, but plan early. Banks, courts, and title companies have limited hours around holidays. Start the process early to avoid year-end delays.
What are the tax benefits of closing before December 31?
Closing before year-end lets you deduct mortgage interest and property taxes paid at closing on that year's tax return. Consult your tax advisor for specifics.
Are title companies open during Christmas week?
Hours vary. Empire Title maintains holiday coverage for scheduled closings. We recommend confirming your closing date well in advance.