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.

RSS

New property listed in Warfield

I have listed a new property at 446 WHITMAN WAY in Warfield. See details here

This beautiful half duplex located in Emerald Ridge is perfect for someone who is thinking of downsizing or wants a low maintenance home! The main floor has a beautiful kitchen and eating area which opens to the living room with cozy gas fireplace and formal dining room. The master suite is a good size with walk in closet and full ensuite.The added bonus is the full length covered deck for entertaining or just relaxing and enjoying the views. Downstairs is bright and welcoming! There is a large rec room, another bedroom, another full bathroom, potential for another bedroom and laundry with storage room. The double attached garage has plenty of room for two vehicles and more storage! Outside, the fully landscaped lot has underground sprinklers with large trees. You will enjoy the peace and tranquility of this fabulous neighbourhood. (id:2493)

Read

New property listed in Trail

I have listed a new property at 3409 MARIGOLD DRIVE in Trail. See details here

This is such a great family home in one of the most desirable areas in Trail! The main floor has been nicely updated throughout. A large living room with cozy fireplace, large dining area and brand new kitchen with stainless steel appliances, 3 large bedrooms and full bathroom completes the main floor. The lower floor has a huge rec room and room to create a 4th bedroom, laundry room, workshop and plenty of storage. The detached garage will surprise you with workshop and enough room to store all the toys! Outside there is a large patio area and beautiful brick fireplace, garden area, fully landscaped yard on almost a 1/4 acre. Glenmerry Elementary school is a short walk down the street. You do not want to miss out on this one! (id:2493)

Read

New property listed in Christina Lake

I have listed a new property at 1662 CHANDLER ROAD in Christina Lake. See details here

Are you looking for a recreational property or year round living at Christina Lake? This one level home has an open plan kitchen and dining area which opens to your sunken living room with cozy woodstove. There is 3 good sized bedrooms in addition to the master suite with huge walk in closet, full bathroom, laundry area and large mudroom. Outside there is almost a third of an acre with mature fruit trees, a large deck to enjoy the family gatherings and better yet, an above ground pool! This property is on a no thru road yet close to all the amenities that Christina Lake has to offer! (id:2493)

Read

New property listed in Trail

I have listed a new property at 1172 MARIANNA CRESCENT in Trail. See details here

This is the ideal rancher that you have been looking for! On the main floor there is a good sized eat in kitchen with oak cupboards, large living room, three bedrooms, a full bathroom and added bonus is the main floor laundry room. Downstairs has a cold room and plenty of storage room or potential to be developed in the future. There is a newer hot water tank, high efficiency furnace and central air. The new electrical panel has just been installed! Outside there is the oversized attached carport, covered patio area, landscaped yard with mature trees and perennials with underground sprinklers. The large level corner lot located in the desirable Sunningdale area has been well cared for and easy to maintain! (id:2493)

Read
The trademarks REALTOR®, REALTORS®, and the REALTOR® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are member’s of CREA. The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by CREA and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license.