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 621 Turner Street in Warfield. See details here

Welcome to this fully renovated home in the heart of Warfield, offering modern comfort, flexible living space, and a peaceful outdoor setting. Step inside from the mudroom to a bright, open-concept main floor featuring a spacious living room, stylish kitchen with an eating bar, two good-sized bedrooms, and a full bathroom with convenient main-floor laundry. The upper level expands your living options with two additional generous bedrooms, a second full bathroom, a dedicated office area, and a cozy family room with sliding doors leading to your own private deck.....perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Outside, you’ll appreciate the attached garage, a powered workshop, and a fully fenced yard nestled alongside a year-round creek, creating a tranquil and private outdoor retreat. With thoughtful renovations throughout and plenty of space both inside and out, this home is ideal for families, professionals, or anyone looking to enjoy comfortable living in a beautiful setting. (id:2493)

Read

New property listed in Fletcher Creek

I have listed a new property at 4830 Fletcher Creek Road in Fletcher Creek. See details here

This stunning 6.03-acre waterfront estate offers an exceptional blend of luxury, privacy, and breathtaking views of Kootenay Lake and the Purcell Mountains. Thoughtfully designed to embrace its spectacular setting, the home features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the interior with natural light and frame panoramic lake and mountain vistas. The main living area is anchored by a dramatic floor-to-ceiling wood-burning fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere year-round. The kitchen boasts abundant counter space, generous storage, and an eating bar, perfect for entertaining. Off the dining room, French doors open to a wraparound deck, offering stunning outdoor living and entertaining spaces. The main level includes a spacious bedroom, full bathroom, laundry and mudroom, and a luxurious primary suite with full ensuite and direct deck access. The upper level, currently used as an office and family room with a 2-piece bathroom, offers flexibility as a guest suite or additional primary retreat. The lower level provides expansive recreation and games rooms, ample storage, utility space, and an additional bathroom. Completing the property are beautifully landscaped grounds, a triple-car detached garage with workshop, and a large quonset ideal for recreational vehicles, boat or a motorhome. With recent updates including a new heat pump and hot water tank (2024), this exceptional waterfront home must be seen to be truly appreciated. (id:2493)

Read

New property listed in Trail

I have listed a new property at 1338 Third Avenue in Trail. See details here

Discover the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and income potential with this centrally located property. The main residence features an eat in kitchen, large living room, two spacious bedrooms and a full bathroom on the main floor; offering a functional layout designed for everyday living. The lower level provides another full bathroom, a family room and a recreation room, creating versatile spaces for relaxation, work, or entertainment. An attached double carport with rear lane access adds convenience and practicality. Set on a generous sized lot, the property is further enhanced by a charming carriage house located at the rear. This secondary dwelling includes a bright and welcoming living room, eat in kitchen, one bedroom, one-bathroom on the main floor. The lower level offers excellent storage options in addition to a laundry area, adding to its overall appeal and functionality. The main home is currently occupied by a long-term tenant, providing immediate rental income and making this an attractive investment property or mortgage helper. Situated in a highly desirable, central location, this property is within walking distance to all amenities, including shopping, dining, schools, parks and transit. Offering both lifestyle and income potential, this is a great investment! (id:2493)

Read

New property listed in Rivervale

I have listed a new property at 418 2ND Avenue in Rivervale. See details here

Gorgeous New Build Just Minutes from Trail! Welcome to your dream home in the peaceful Rivervale neighborhood....brand new, move-in ready, and just steps from the Columbia River! This modern masterpiece blends comfort, style, and functionality in every detail. Upstairs, you'll find a bright, open-concept living space that connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas...perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Step out onto the expansive deck and take in the sweeping mountain views while enjoying your morning coffee or evening wine. This level features a spacious bedroom with a full bath nearby, plus a stunning primary suite complete with a walk-in closet and a spa-inspired ensuite with a custom tiled walk-in shower. Downstairs, a spacious entry welcomes you from either the front door or attached garage. A guest bedroom, convenient powder room with stackable laundry, and utility room offer flexibility and function. And don’t miss the self-contained legal suite....ideal for rental income, extended family, or a private guest space. It boasts a large studio bedroom, full bath, in-suite laundry, a sleek kitchen, and a bright living area with its own entrance. The interior is fully finished with high-quality touches throughout, while the outside yard is a blank slate ready for your landscaping vision. Enjoy a generous backyard, and with the Columbia River just a short walk away, outdoor adventures are always within reach. This is the perfect blend of location, lifestyle, and income potential! (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.