Penza explained how to take a mortgage in December and not be left without an apartment

In December, the demand for mortgages is growing sharply. This is a consistent seasonal pattern, and the end of 2026 will be no exception. There are several reasons, said the creator of the real estate agency “Ideal Realtor” Evgeny Trifonov.

The first reason is psychological: many want to celebrate the New Year with a settled housing issue and close the main deal of the year before the holidays. The second financial: by the end of the year, premiums and thirteenth salaries come in, down payment money comes in, and developers give discounts and subsidized rates to close annual plans. The third expectation is that changes in the key rate and preferential programs are being discussed in December, and people are in a hurry to meet new conditions.

December is the peak month for mortgage offices: applications are 25-40% more, and the staff is the same. A preliminary decision instead of a couple of days takes five to seven or even two weeks, the final approval can take a month. Quickly consider customers with a full package of documents and a good credit history.

There is a risk of not having time for the holidays: from December 28-29, banks stop issuing, notaries and Rosreestr go on holidays. Then the transaction leaves in mid-January, and the buyer risks losing the deposit or approval. In the fuss, people grab what turned up without checking and more easily agree to unnecessary services.

Expert advice: divide "success in December" and "hurry." If there is a specific apartment and documents ready, December is profitable. If you only look closely, do not succumb to the hype: approval is valid for four to six months, apply for a loan in December, and choose an apartment in January-February. Decided to go in December, submit documents in the first half of the month.