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 Genelle
I have listed a new property at 814 SMITH CRESCENT in Genelle.
This home is absolutely stunning! There is absolutely nothing to do but move in! When you enter this home you can see the attention to detail in every room. The living room and dining room are bright and roomy with a beautiful shiplap feature wall,engineered hardwood floors;a beautiful kitchen with stainless steel appliances,3 large bedrooms and full bathroom complete the main floor. The lower floor has the master bedroom with a Pax wardrobe system and the full bathroom with walk in shower is beautiful! There is a theatre room and bar area for all your entertaining needs. The large laundry/utility room has the access to the large shop which exits to the rear yard. Outside you will love the landscaped flat level yard with underground sprinklers,raised flower beds, covered patio area,large shed and your own backyard basketball court which the kids will love! The oversized carport (36 x 16) will accommodate the RV or boat or both! This beautiful home is a short distance away from the Columbia River and a short 10 minute drive either to Trail or Castlegar! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 1980 DANIEL STREET in Trail.
This great home has had some beautiful updates - new kitchen, modernized bathroom, new two stage natural gas furnace, new flooring and just working on new landscaping! Entering this home you will be pleasantly surprised with all the work that has been done... there is a large entry that has a great feature wall, the large living room has a beautiful view of the Columbia River, the dining area and brand new kitchen with wood beams is stunning. Two large bedrooms and updated bathroom, laundry area complete the main floor. Downstairs there is a workshop and large storage area. Outside there is a deck area in the front yard where you can view the river and mountains. The backyard has been reseeded and has off street parking with a paved drive off of Wilmes Lane. This great home is move in ready and there is virtually nothing to do but move in and enjoy! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 1799 THIRD AVE in Trail.
This great family home will tick most of the boxes! The main level has a bright large living room with access to your front veranda. The large kitchen has beautiful oak cabinets and plenty of counter space opening to the dining room with plenty of room for family gatherings and a built in oak china cabinet. Two large bedrooms and an office with full bathroom completes the main floor. Downstairs there is a summer kitchen, rec room, large laundry area with another full bathroom. Outside, the yard has a nice patio area with plenty of privacy and totally fenced yard with underground sprinklers. There is a oversized double attached garage with plenty of storage area. Centrally located and close to all amenities! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Montrose
I have listed a new property at 730 10TH AVENUE in Montrose.
This updated rancher is perfect for those that are starting out or those that want to downsize to one level living! There is a good sized kitchen and dining area with two good sized bedrooms and large living room. The enclosed entry also contains your laundry room. Recent upgrades include roof, windows and hot water tank. Outside there is a large detached 12x20 garage with lane access as well as plenty of parking for the RV or additional vehicles. The front yard is totally fenced and secure for the kids or pooches! And close to the Park! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Fruitvale
I have listed a new property at 88 FORSYTHIA DRIVE in Fruitvale.
This beautiful family home has been completely updated and is move in ready! The main floor has a beautiful large living room with gas fireplace opening to a formal dining room;the kitchen is amazing... eating area with lots of counter space,gleaming appliances and room for all the family! Step down a few steps into a large family room with french doors to access the backyard;as well a separate laundry room and half bathroom. Upstairs you will find 3 spacious bedrooms, a full updated bathroom and a master bedroom with its own ensuite and large walk in closet! The large (23x24) double attached garage has plenty of storage room as well as a utility closet with the new gas furnace(2021) and hot water tank(2017). The fenced backyard has raised flower beds with plenty of perennials, fruit trees,greenhouse, and deck areas with plenty of privacy! This beautiful home is located on a no thru road,close to the elementary school and backs onto a large green space! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 3526 CARNATION DRIVE in Trail.
This great updated family home in desired Glenmerry is move in ready! Many recent updates have been done;hot water tank,new windows, and newer roof just to name a few! Upstairs you will find a large bright kitchen with stainless steel appliances opening to the large living room with fireplace. Two bedrooms,full bathroom and office with large patio doors to the backyard and tiered deck complete the first floor. Downstairs, 2 more bedrooms and rec room with another fireplace; large laundry room as well as a great mud room with outdoor access to the back yard. Added bonus short distance to Glenmerry Elementary School! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 298 LEROSE STREET in Trail.
This is a great opportunity to get into the market! Plenty of room for a growing family ! The main floor has a bright living room and big kitchen with the laundry area just down the hall. The bathroom has been updated with a huge jetted tub! Upstairs you will find 3 large bedrooms and den or office space as well as another full bathroom! Hot water tank replaced in 2018;upgraded electrical panel and new plumbing has been completed. Outside there is a patio area,garden area and single garage with additional parking which is rare in West Trail! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Rossland
I have listed a new property at 1492 COLUMBIA AVENUE in Rossland.
This place has so much character and has been beautifully upgraded. The main floor offers a large entry area, huge living room, beautiful hardwood floors throughout, fantastic kitchen and dining area, with butlers pantry, and a huge master bedroom with walk in closet and full bath. The upstairs offers 3 bedrooms and a large full bath with laundry. The In-law suite offers a 1 bed 1 bath unit, great kitchen, dining space and living room, with full bath and insuite laundry. The house has been mechanically upgraded, offers tons of storage, covered parking and storage shed. (id:2493)
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New property listed in Fruitvale
I have listed a new property at 76 LAUREL AVENUE in Fruitvale.
This beautiful family home is STUNNING! There is nothing you will need to do but move in! The main floor has large kitchen with island which opens onto the dining room and roomy living room. There is a mudroom/laundry room, office or den and full bathroom that completes the main. Upstairs there is a great office or play area, large master bedroom with walk in closet, two additional large bedrooms and another full bathroom. Downstairs there is a large carpeted rec room, utility room and tons of storage areas. The parking is incredible with a fully finished 21 x 23 double garage with an additional garage door to provide access to the back yard, plus a covered patio area, fully landscaped with underground sprinklers, and an additional workshop and oversized double garage with 10' H door. Great for all the toys! The elementary school is a short distance away as is the local arena and shopping. (id:2493)
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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 3485 MARIGOLD DRIVE in Trail.
After 61 years this great family home in Glenmerry is on the market! The character and charm welcome you when you walk in the door. The main floor has four bedrooms, a good sized kitchen with a large dining room, cozy living room and full bathroom.Downstairs there is a large rec room, another full bathroom,storage area, workshop ,cold room and utility room. Outside the detached single garage has a covered patio area that the family can enjoy! There is a garden area ,level fenced yard, lots of perennials and shrubs with underground sprinklers.The neighbourhood is a great place to raise your family and a short distance away from Glenmerry Elementary school! (id:2493)
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