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 Fruitvale

I have listed a new property at 14 1790 BARRETT DRIVE in Fruitvale. See details here

Nestled in a charming 55+ community in the serene town of Fruitvale, this delightful 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom modular home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience & affordability for those looking to downsize. Step into a large, eat-in kitchen designed for both functionality & style. The bright & roomy living room invites you to relax in the cozy seating area, complete with a natural gas fireplace that adds a touch of warmth and ambiance. The home boasts two spacious bedrooms & a third, smaller bedroom ideal for a home office or craft room and an updated bathroom. Enjoy the laminate flooring that extends throughout the home, offering durability & a contemporary look. Updated windows flood the home with natural light while enhancing energy efficiency. A practical mudroom provides a convenient space to store outdoor gear. Outside, the covered porch is perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. The property also includes two large storage sheds, providing plenty of space for your tools, hobbies & extra belongings. Multiple perennial plants add a touch of natural beauty to the landscape. Located close to all amenities, this home offers the best of both worlds - a peaceful, community-oriented setting with easy access to all amenities. Whether you're looking to enjoy a simpler lifestyle or find a cozy & manageable home, this modular is the ideal choice. Discover the comfort & convenience of this lovely home in Fruitvale & make it your own! (id:2493)

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New property listed in Fruitvale

I have listed a new property at 48 NELSON AVENUE in Fruitvale. See details here

Welcome to this charming, updated cottage style home nestled on a corner lot within the family-oriented community of Fruitvale. With two bedrooms, one bathroom & a host of modern amenities, this home offers a perfect blend of comfort & style. As you step inside, you're greeted by the warmth of beautiful hardwood floors that extend throughout the living spaces. The open wood stairs lead you to the upper level, adding character & a touch of rustic charm to the interior. The cottage boasts a thoughtfully designed, open floor plan, flooding the space with natural light & creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings & relaxation. The seamless flow between the living, dining & kitchen areas enhances the sense of spaciousness, perfect for both everyday living & entertaining guests. The main bathroom has been totally updated. Upstairs, the two bedrooms offer comfortable retreats, each featuring plenty of natural light. Mechanically, this home has been well-maintained & updated to ensure peace of mind for its occupants. A newer hot water tank & furnace provide efficient heating & hot water, plus an updated electrical panel installed March 2024! The large corner lot location provides additional space & curb appeal, enhancing the overall charm of the property. If you are just getting into the market you will definitely want to check this great home out! (id:2493)

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New property listed in Fruitvale

I have listed a new property at 95 KOOTENAY AVENUE S in Fruitvale. See details here

Welcome to this charming & affordable family home that seamlessly blends comfort and functionality. Situated on a quiet, family-friendly street, this residence offers a warm & inviting atmosphere for you & your loved ones. Exterior: The home boasts a classic yet modern exterior with a fresh coat of paint & well-maintained landscaping. A detached double garage & a convenient carport provide ample parking space for multiple vehicles. Living Spaces: Upon entering, you'll be greeted by an open-concept living area, featuring a cozy living room that flows seamlessly into the dining area & kitchen. Large windows allow plenty of natural light, creating a bright & welcoming atmosphere. Kitchen: The kitchen has all the conveniences; wall oven,countertop stove,built in microwave,dishwasher & large fridge; with plenty of storage & counter space. Bedrooms: The home boasts four spacious bedrooms, providing plenty of room for a growing family. Bathrooms: With two bathrooms this home ensures convenience for the entire family. The added bonus..the main floor bathroom has a large jetted tub! Rec Room:The addition of a versatile rec room with built in bar offers extra living space for family gatherings. This multi-functional room provides endless possibilities for entertainment and relaxation. Detached Double Garage and Carport: The property includes a detached double garage, providing secure parking and additional storage space. This affordable family home has many mechanical upgrades and is move in ready! Don't miss out on this great home! (id:2493)

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New property listed in Fruitvale

I have listed a new property at 1911 ROBIN STREET in Fruitvale. See details here

This 4 bedroom 2 bathrooms home is situated in a great family area, and has been tastefully updated and modernized.Walk in to your grand entrance with unique vaulted ceilings, beautifully crafted woodwork throughout, large living room, dining room, brand new modern kitchen and updated 4 piece bathroom and large master bedroom with walk in closet. Upstairs is equipped with 2 bedrooms, 4 piece bathroom and my favourite part is the view from the top of the stairs looking down on the main level. This property offers a garage, workshop area, tons of storage, and a deck. (id:2493)

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New property listed in Fruitvale

I have listed a new property at 1916 ROBIN STREET in Fruitvale. See details here

This home is beautiful inside and out! The main floor is bright and spacious with a large living room, a formal dining room, two large bedrooms, a large bathroom, a master bedroom with a beautiful ensuite, and a brand new kitchen with solid birch cabinets, quartz counters and eating bar, and s/s appliances. It is absolutely stunning! There is three different decks that you will have access to from every room on the main floor! The lower floor has a large rec room, a family room, a laundry room, another full bathroom, another bedroom currently used as an office with sliders that open to the landscaped back yard and a huge workshop. Outside there is a double oversized carport, beautiful perennial gardens and lots of room for the kids to play! Located in Fruitvale steps to the park and close to all amenities. (id:2493)

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New property listed in Fruitvale

I have listed a new property at 19 BLUEBIRD ROAD in Fruitvale. See details here

What a great opportunity!! Two great homes on a great big level lot in Fruitvale! Both are currently rented on a month to month basis. The white house has a nice open floor plan. Updated flooring in the kitchen, dining and living room area with 2 good sized bedrooms and a den on the main. The lower floor has a large family room with fireplace, another bedroom, storage room and large laundry room. Outside there is a nice patio area to enjoy, a single garage and carport. The yellow house has been updated with new flooring,updated kitchen, bathroom, a bedroom, a flex space area that is currently used as a home gym and a laundry room. Downstairs there is plenty of room for future development. Outside there is a single carport and large yard for your enjoyment! (id:2493)

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New property listed in Fruitvale

I have listed a new property at 12 1790 BARRETT DRIVE in Fruitvale. See details here

Wow! Great Value! This home has been beautifully updated with newer windows and vinyl flooring as well as a recently updated bathroom! Featuring 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom and is an end unit with large yard, not 1 but 2 covered decks and large storage shed. This is the perfect place for a senior looking to downsize! 55+ park (id:2493)

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New property listed in Fruitvale

I have listed a new property at 1947 EASTVIEW STREET in Fruitvale. See details here

This is a great family home centrally located in Fruitvale. The main level has a large family room with gas fireplace, a summer kitchen, large bedroom with full bathroom.There is plenty of storage in addition to a cold room with access to the attached oversized garage. On the upper level a bright large living room with another gas fireplace,a spacious kitchen with plenty of cupboards opens to the dining area with sliding doors to the pretty sunroom overlooking the beautiful backyard. There is the large master suite with walk in closet and full sized ensuite in addition to another good sized bedroom and another bathroom. Another added bonus is the main floor laundry room! Outside there is an upper patio area as well as a covered patio area on the lower level that opens to the fully landscaped backyard with two sheds for all your storage needs. The current RU1 zoning provides the potential to have the main floor become a suite or an awesome inlaw suite for an extended family member. (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 Fruitvale
I have listed a new property at 19 BLUEBIRD ROAD in Fruitvale.
What a great opportunity!! Two great homes on a great big level lot in Fruitvale! Both are currently rented on a month to month basis. The white house has a nice open floor plan. Updated flooring in the kitchen, dining and living room area with 2 good sized bedrooms and a den on the main. The lower floor has a large family room with fireplace, another bedroom, storage room and large laundry room. Outside there is a nice patio area to enjoy, a single garage and carport. The yellow house has been updated with new flooring,updated kitchen, bathroom, a bedroom, a flex space area that is currently used as a home gym and a laundry room. Downstairs there is plenty of room for future development. Outside there is a single carport and large yard for your enjoyment! (id:2493)
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New property listed in Fruitvale
I have listed a new property at 12 1790 BARRETT DRIVE in Fruitvale.
Wow! Great Value! This home has been beautifully updated with newer windows and vinyl flooring as well as a recently updated bathroom! Featuring 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom and is an end unit with large yard, not 1 but 2 covered decks and large storage shed. This the the perfect place for a senior looking to downsize! 55+ 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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