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 258 2ND AVENUE in Trail.
Move in Ready! This great home features not 1 but 2 master bedrooms, one with his and hers closets and ensuite, the other with cozy gas fire place and walk in closet with access to the back yard and hot tub area. You will also enjoy a 3rd bedroom upstairs, fresh paint, new flooring throughout, two upgraded bathrooms, plus a full unfinished basement for additional development or just leave as storage. All of that plus great covered parking, workshop, and fully fenced yard with garden area. (id:2493)
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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 995 THACKERAY STREET in Trail.
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A HOUSE THAT'S BEEN NICELY UPDATED THAT WON'T BREAK THE BANK? THIS 3 BED 2 BATH HOME HAS BEEN UPDATED INSIDE AND OUT INCLUDING NEW ROOF, NEW KITCHEN, NEW BATHROOM, NEW FLOORING THROUGHOUT, FRESHLY PAINTED INSIDE AND OUT! ALL OF THIS PLUS A LARGE CORNER LOT ACROSS FROM THE PARK WITH GARAGE AND TWO COVERED PARKING SPACES... AND A POOL.... (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 345 MURRAY DRIVE in Warfield
I have sold a property at 345 MURRAY DRIVE in Warfield.
This is a MUST see! This charming 3 bedroom plus office 3 bathroom home is absolutely perfect! You will fall in love with the hardwood floors, crown mounding, completely upgraded kitchen with eating bar, patio area and private yard! This house features h/e furnace, central air, tons of storage, rv parking, plus a detached heated 26'x20' garage! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Warfield
I have listed a new property at 735 SHAKESPEARE STREET in Warfield.
WOW!! This 3/4 Bed 2 bath home is sure to please! Featuring a beautiful kitchen with silestone counters and stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors in the dining and main floor bedroom, tiled front entry area, enclosed porch area to the super private fenced back yard, just need to add the gate! Enjoy mechanical upgrades including upgraded windows, newer furnace and central air, updated electrical and panel. All this plus an attached garage, 3 parking spaces in the front and additional parking off the alley! This is a must see! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Montrose
I have listed a new property at 944 7TH STREET in Montrose.
PRICED TO SELL! Fantastic building lot in Montrose, perfect for a two storey with a fabulous view. If you want to build your dream home, this is the best value lot on the market! Almost $20,000 below assessed value. Buy now, build in the spring! (id:2493)
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I have sold a property at 2224 TOPPING STREET in Trail
I have sold a property at 2224 TOPPING STREET in Trail.
THE VIEW!!! This 2 Bed 1 Bath home has the most amazing 180 degree view of the Columbia River and East Trail! Featuring a brand new bathroom, nicely updated main floor, open kitchen, living and dining area, huge deck to enjoy the view, and a quaint private patio space in the rear with raised garden beds and pool. New Roof, upgraded electrical panel, and quick possession is available! (id:2493)
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