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 13 3080 HIGHWAY DRIVE in Trail.
If you are looking to downsize but still want a bit of a yard then this is one to consider! This end unit has a large living room with gas fireplace, a large kitchen and built in cabinets in the dining room,two good sized bedrooms and a large master suite,laundry area and full bathroom. Outside enjoy the views of the mountains and the Columbia River from your full length covered deck. An easy to maintain yard with two garden sheds and plenty of privacy will be yours in this 55+ mobile home park! Recent upgrades to the electrical panel,roof,newer siding and windows.Act now as this won't last long! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 3485 MARIGOLD DRIVE in Trail.
This awesome family home is one of the best values in Glenmerry! The main floor has four bedrooms, a good sized kitchen with a large dining room, a spacious 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! Just a short distance away is the current Glenmerry Elementary School which has construction starting this fall for a brand new school! Quick possession is available! Start packing! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Pass Creek
I have listed a new property at 1670 MOUNTAIN RIDGE ROAD in Pass Creek.
What an incredible acreage to build your dream home! With 1 build site ready to go with septic and well, and power awaiting connecting, PLUS another 2 potential build sites, this 19.91 ACRES has incredible opportunity! Minutes to Castlegar, and views of the river, this in a RARE piece of property! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Fruitvale
I have listed a new property at 72 LAUREL AVENUE in Fruitvale.
This great family home has had many mechanical upgrades and just needs a bit of a personal touch to make it your dream home! The main floor has an open floor plan with a good sized kitchen, dining room and living room. Three bedrooms and a full bathroom complete the main. On the lower floor there is a great rec room for the family to hang out in as well as another spacious bedroom along with a laundry room, a roughed in second bathroom with toilet already in, and a large work shop and storage area. Outside enjoy the completely fenced double lot with two storage sheds, carport, covered hottub area and just a short distance away from Fruitvale Elementary. Upgrades include 200 Amp Electrical Panel, newer furnace, A/C, windows, vinyl plank flooring and roof done approximately 5-6 years ago. All the big stuff is done! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Trail
I have listed a new property at 1430 THIRD AVE in Trail.
Are you just starting out or wanting to downsize? Then this is the home for you! The main floor has an open plan kitchen, dining and living room area with a master suite and ensuite. There is another full bathroom and mudroom with laundry area as well. Upstairs there is an additional bedroom and den/office area. On the lower floor a huge workbench and potential to finish the area into a rec room with plenty of storage room. Let's talk about upgrades.... new kitchen with custom cupboards and massive island, new laminate floors thru out, fresh paint, new hot water tank,upgraded electrical panel, newer boiler system and roof that is under 5 years old. Outside you have a fenced yard and single garage that is currently used for storage. This home is move in ready and close to all amenities! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Rossland
I have listed a new property at 1645 LEROI AVENUE in Rossland.
This brand new custom built home by Seven Summits Contracting has a fabulous layout and designed with efficiency in mind! The main floor offers an open kitchen, dining and living room space with handcrafted wood eating bar and beautiful floating shelves in the kitchen. You also have a powder room and attached garage on the main level. Upstairs offers a large master bedroom with walk-in closet and full ensuite, another two great size bedrooms with walk-in closets, a full bathroom and laundry room are all on the upper level. Downstairs is ready for final finishing and completely dry walled with a large rec room, plumbed for a fourth bathroom and great sized mechanical and storage room. You have great patio doors off the rec room to your low maintenance backyard. Energy efficient features include triple pane windows and polished concrete floors with radiant infloor heating. This is fantastic value for a brand new home! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Warfield
I have listed a new property at 3150 HANNA CREEK ROAD in Warfield.
This custom built log home is absolutely stunning and looks brand new! Situated on 49.4 acres near Warfield, this beautiful home has landscaped grounds, beautiful flower beds, and fruit trees. You can appreciate all that nature has to offer from the patio area and wrap around deck. Stepping inside, the open floor plan of the kitchen and dining area welcomes you. The living room with gleaming hardwood floors opens to to your outside deck. The large master suite with adjoining semi-ensuite with steam shower are also on the main level along with a good sized utility/laundry room. Walk up the handcrafted log stairs to gain access to the upper loft style floor that has a huge bedroom with two walk in closets with another full bathroom with a jacuzzi tub, plus a sitting room that could be made into another bedroom. The upper floor overlooks the living room. Every room throughout the home has large windows to allow the natural light in and to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you! This home is meticulously cared for and has been well maintained. Don't forget the oversized double carport, the fenced area ready for your horses, and the sweeping views from the incredible trails throughout the property. (id:2493)
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