Why January Is the Market’s Best-Kept Secret

Experience, Integrity, Results


January in Real Estate: What’s Happening, What’s Available, and How to Win This Winter Market

January often gets a bad reputation in real estate cold weather, post-holiday fatigue, and the assumption that “nothing happens until spring.”
But here’s the truth: January is one of the most strategic months in the market, especially in a small-town setting.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on the market, here’s what’s happening right now and how to make the most of it.

What’s Happening in the January Market

January buyers are serious buyers.
These aren’t casual lookers they’re people with job changes, life changes, growing families, downsizing plans, or investment goals.

Inventory is typically lower, which means:

  • Less competition for sellers

  • More attention on each listing

  • Cleaner negotiations without bidding-war chaos

For buyers, January can offer:

  • Motivated sellers

  • Better communication and flexibility

  • More time to actually evaluate a home without pressure

It’s a quieter market but it’s an intentional one.

Featured Listings: Available This January

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to look, these properties are currently available and receiving strong interest. With fewer listings on the market, each one stands out more in January.

🏡 Featured Listing #1
800 Hwy 22, Rossland
• 4 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms
• Finished lower level, ideal as a guest suite
• Complete with a full kitchen

https://theahanson.com/mylistings.html/listing.10364452-800-highway-22-rossland-v0g-1y0.107004301

🏡 Featured Listing #2
418 2nd Ave, Rivervale
• 4 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms
• Includes a fully legal suite

https://theahanson.com/mylistings.html/listing.10370664-418-2nd-avenue-rivervale-v1r-4v5.107445517

🏡 Featured Listing #3
25 Wilson Rd, Christina Lake
• 3 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms
• Above-garage income helper
• Ready for you to finish and customize to your vision

https://theahanson.com/mylistings.html/listing.10367602-25-wilson-road-christina-lake-v0h-1e0.107264138

January Listings: Why Homes Stand Out Right Now

Homes listed in January tend to get more focused attention. With fewer properties on the market, buyers aren’t overwhelmed with options they’re paying closer attention to details, layout, condition, and value.

If you’re browsing listings this month, pay attention to:

  • Properties that were priced strategically (not “testing the market”)

  • Homes with strong winter curb appeal and good natural light

  • Listings that show pride of ownership these often perform best in January

And if you’re selling, this is where preparation matters more than ever.

Tips & Tricks for January Sellers

1. Price for the market you’re in not the one you hope for
January buyers are informed and motivated, but they expect value.

2. Light matters more in winter
Open blinds, replace dim bulbs, and let natural light work for you.

3. Cozy, not cluttered
Warm, inviting spaces photograph and show better than over-decorated homes.

4. Snow and access matter
Clear walkways, driveways, and entry areas. First impressions still count.

5. Be flexible with showings
Weather and schedules vary flexibility creates opportunity.

Tips & Tricks for January Buyers

1. Get pre-approved early
Prepared buyers have more leverage in January.

2. Look beyond curb appeal
Focus on layout, structure, and long-term potential.

3. Ask winter-specific questions
Heating, insulation, and efficiency matter more now than ever.

4. Move with confidence
When the right home appears, act decisively.

Thinking Ahead to Spring? Start Now.

If selling in spring is your goal, January is the perfect planning month:

  • Pricing strategy

  • Prep timelines

  • Renovation decisions

  • Marketing plans

Early planning often leads to stronger spring results without last-minute stress.

Final Thoughts

January isn’t slow it’s selective.
It’s a month for informed decisions, strategic moves, and setting the tone for the year ahead.

If you’d like more details on any of the featured listings or want to discuss your own plans for 2025, I’m always happy to help.

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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 2082 Daniel Street in Trail.
Well loved, immaculate character home! Fantastic river views, and great parking! This home features 3/4 bedrooms, high efficiency furnace, cozy fireplace, lots of storage space, original wood trim and french doors. The main floor features an eat in kitchen, large living room, office area with views of the Columbia River, 2 bedrooms and main bathroom. Enjoy a large bedroom or play room upstairs, and full basement with 4th bedroom or rec room and second bathroom. Outside enjoy oversized double carport, fully landscaped yard, and additional street parking! GREAT VALUE! (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 108 CEDAR Avenue in Fruitvale
I have sold a property at 108 CEDAR Avenue in Fruitvale.
This is great value for a family home steps to Fruitvale Elementary school! This home has been completely renovated and features 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, large kitchen and dining area, brand new gas furnace, newer roof, huge covered deck overlooking your own in ground swimming pool and yard. Downstairs find a large rec room and mudroom, with direct access to the oversized carport and workshop. Put this one on your viewing list! (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 3809 DOGWOOD Drive in Trail
I have sold a property at 3809 DOGWOOD Drive in Trail.
MOVE IN READY! This completely upgraded family home is "like new"! Featuring a beautiful open concept main floor with big windows overlooking a private yard, gorgeous fireplace, and vaulted ceilings. The kitchen is updated and modern with tons of great built ins and cabinetry. You will love the huge foyer with tons of storage, 2 bedrooms on the main floor with 3rd bedroom in the basement, 2 updated bathrooms, large rec room with office space, and laundry room. Enjoy a fully fenced yard, with underground sprinklers and patio area. All this and located close to Glenmerry Elementary! (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 1091 HIGHWAY 3B in Beaver Falls
I have sold a property at 1091 HIGHWAY 3B in Beaver Falls.
This fantastic family home sits on a fully landscaped private 1.03 acre parcel and features a custom kitchen with heated tile floors, hardwood floors throughout, central air, 3 bedrooms, plus a den/office down, new roof and room in the basement for future development! With detached garage, attached workshop/garage, additional parking and room for the RV, you can bring all the toys! (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 106 RITCHIE Avenue in Trail
I have sold a property at 106 RITCHIE Avenue in Trail.
This large riverside family home boasts over 3800 sqft of space, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, updated kitchen with granite countertops, oak hardwood floors, huge living room and dining room - perfect for those family get togethers, large sundeck overlooking the yard, 3 separate flex spaces/family rooms, attached garage and carport, and RV parking. The mechanical details include an approximately 10 years new roof, new hot water tank, heat pump a/c units, hot water heating system. The basement is unfinished with access to the garage, loads or storage, a workshop, and wine room. This is a must see! (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 2465 ALBERT Drive in Trail
I have sold a property at 2465 ALBERT Drive in Trail.
Wow! If you are looking for a large family home in Miral Heights, this is the one! Enjoy the bright and welcoming family home featuring hardwood floors throughout the main, 5 bedrooms (4 on the same floor), 4 bathrooms, a living room and family room on the main floor, a media, workout and games area in the basement, two flex spaces, a HUGE master bedroom with ensuite and walk-in closet. All of this on a .24 acre lot, with double car garage, newer high efficiency furnace and heat pump, and located conveniently just up from the kids school bus stop! Put this one on your viewing list! (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 3471 ASTER Drive in Trail
I have sold a property at 3471 ASTER Drive in Trail.
Super Glenmerry location for this four bedrooms plus den, 2 bathroom, family home! Enjoy hardwood floors throughout the main, an updated kitchen, large recreation room with bar area, wood burning fireplace in the living room, and over sized carport. Bonuses include fully fenced back yard, new roof, and newer furnace. Call your REALTOR® today to view! (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 1152 MARIANNA Crescent in Trail
I have sold a property at 1152 MARIANNA Crescent in Trail.
Looking for a shop?? Look no further! This is the perfect package for someone needing covered parking! With an oversized double garage and carport there is room for all the toys! Inside enjoy 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, family room area in the basement, h/e furnace with a/c, and a flat fenced yard. (id:2493)
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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 1768 MAIN Street in Trail.
Downsizing? Starting out? This is a great option featuring an attached carport, private yard, large deck, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, separate basement access with storage/utility room and a rec room. Conveniently located in a cul-de-sac in East Trail, walking distance to shopping, schools and aquatic center. (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 1425 THIRD Avenue in Trail
I have sold a property at 1425 THIRD Avenue in Trail.
4 Bed 2 Bath family home with an additional 2 bedrooms, brand new bathroom and full kitchen downstairs with separate entrance! Low maintenance yard in a fabulous East Trail location, close to St. Michaels elementary school, Crowe Secondary, and Safeway. Walking distance to all amenities. Great Value! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 304 LEROSE Street in Trail.
Great value for a fantastic starter home! Featuring 3/4 bedrooms, newer kitchen and bathroom, large fenced yard, h/e furnace, large unfinished basement with ample additional storage spaces. Also includes a detached double carport and additional parking. If you are looking to get in the market, this is great value! Call your REALTOTR® to book your viewing today! (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 1050/1038 GREEN Avenue in Trail
I have sold a property at 1050/1038 GREEN Avenue in Trail.
This home is impressive! Beautiful renovations throughout this conveniently located home! Enjoy an open plan main floor with large living room and kitchen (appliances included), pantry, main floor laundry, two large bedrooms upstairs, spa like bathroom with separate tub and walk in shower, and walk in closet. The house features a brand new roof, high efficiency furnace, new plumbing - ready for a new bathroom in the basement, and new duct work. All of this plus a great storage space in the basement with separate entry, or a little bit of finishing and could be a great in law suite or mortgage helper. A must see, quick possession available! (id:2493)
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