🌟 The NWA December Dream Newsletter! 🏡🎅

Hello NWA friends! We’ve officially entered the most wonderful time of the year! Grab your hot cocoa, put on your festive playlist, and let’s dive into what’s happening in Northwest Arkansas this month and a fresh look at our local real estate market.

🎄 NWA Holiday Fun: Deck the Halls Events!

Northwest Arkansas is glowing this month! Here are a few must-do events to get you in the holiday spirit:

• Fayetteville Lights of the Ozarks: ✨ The Downtown Square is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 500,000 lights! Stroll through the magic nightly through January 1st.

• Holiday Markets on the Square: 🎁 Find unique, locally-made gifts! The Fayetteville Square hosts a market on Saturdays: December 6, 13, and 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• Bentonville Fun:

  • Bentonville Square Lights & Rink: The Downtown Square is lit up daily, and you can hit the ice at The Rink at Lawrence Plaza! ⛸️

  • Bentonville Christmas Parade: Watch the festive floats roll through downtown on Saturday, December 13th at 6:00 p.m.

• International Hot Cocoa Crawl: ☕️ Taste amazing hot cocoa creations as you wander through downtown Springdale on Friday, December 12th from 5-8 p.m.

• The Nutcracker: 🩰 Catch a holiday classic as the Ozark Ballet Theater performs The Nutcracker on December 12th and 13th.

🏠 Market Update: The December 12th Real Estate Roundup!

Let’s unwrap the latest real estate numbers for Benton and Washington Counties! As we look at the snapshot data for what your neighbors are paying, the NWA market remains strong, even as we head into the quieter winter season.

(Data based on the most recent available average sales price figures leading up to November 12, 2025.)

📊 Benton County (Bentonville, Rogers, Bella Vista, etc.)

📈 Washington County (Fayetteville, Springdale, etc.)

Market Vibe Check: While we see prices holding steady, inventory is picking up slightly, which means buyers might have a little more breathing room to find their perfect home than they did last year. Sellers are still doing well, but pricing correctly is always key!

🍪 A Festive Treat: The Easiest Christmas Sugar Cookies!

Nothing says "Christmas" like a kitchen smelling of vanilla and warm sugar! This recipe is perfect for decorating with the family. Here is a fantastic Christmas Cookie recipe to share with your friends and family this wonderful time of year.  🧑‍🍳

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 large eggs

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.

3. Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Beat in the vanilla and eggs until just combined.

4. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together. Tip: Don't overmix!

5. Roll & Cut: Roll the dough out to 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use your favorite holiday cookie cutters (stars, trees, snowmen! ⭐️🎄).

6. Bake: Place cookies 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

7. Decorate! Let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting and sprinkling them with festive colors! Enjoy! 😋

Stay warm, stay festive, and enjoy the holiday season in beautiful Northwest Arkansas!