Why January Is the Market’s Best-Kept Secret

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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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Open House. Open House on Sunday, August 31, 2025 10:00AM - 12:00PM

Please visit our Open House at 25 Wilson Road in Christina Lake. See details here

Open House on Sunday, August 31, 2025 10:00AM - 12:00PM

Welcome to this exceptional Spanish-style retreat, just a short stroll to the lake. This home exudes timeless character and modern functionality. The exterior is striking with its travertine tile roof, landscaped grounds, and a park-like backyard that feels like your own private sanctuary. Outdoor living is at its best with multiple spaces to enjoy throughout the seasons, including a sun-soaked deck perfect for morning coffee or evening entertaining, and a lower covered patio where you can unwind in the shade after a day on the water. Inside you are greeted by a thoughtfully designed layout that blends warmth and elegance. The sunken living room creates a cozy yet open gathering space, complete with a gas fireplace and surrounded by expansive windows that bathe the home in natural light. The kitchen and dining areas flow seamlessly, making everyday living and hosting effortless. The primary bedroom with ensuite offers access to one of the home’s sun decks for those peaceful moments to start or end your day. With three bedrooms, three bathrooms, main floor laundry, and an abundance of storage, the home is as functional as it is beautiful. One of the standout features of this property is the incredible garage and workshop space. With not one but two garages, there is ample room for vehicles, hobbies, and all your toys. Above the garage, a plumbed and ready space presents an exciting opportunity whether you envision it as a vacation rental, guest suite, or income helper, the possibilities are endless. (id:2493)

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Open House. Open House on Saturday, March 15, 2025 11:00AM - 12:30PM
4-bed, 2-bath home offers a bright living space, an updated kitchen, and a spacious basement with a rec room. Enjoy a double garage, RV parking, and recent upgrades like new windows, flo

Please visit our Open House at 3310 Dahlia Crescent in Trail. See details here

Open House on Saturday, March 15, 2025 11:00AM - 12:30PM 4-bed, 2-bath home offers a bright living space, an updated kitchen, and a spacious basement with a rec room. Enjoy a double garage, RV parking, and recent upgrades like new windows, flooring, and a 2021 furnace. Just steps from the new elementary school-perfect for families!

Nestled in the highly sought-after Glenmerry neighborhood, this fantastic family home offers the perfect blend of comfort, space, and convenience. Just blocks away from the brand-new elementary school, it’s an ideal location for families. Step inside to find a spacious living room filled with natural light, seamlessly connecting to a beautifully updated kitchen that’s perfect for family dining. The main floor also features a serene master suite, two additional generously sized bedrooms, and a full bathroom. Downstairs, a massive rec room awaits your finishing touches—simply choose your preferred paint color and flooring to complete the space. A fourth bedroom, currently used as an office, provides flexibility for your family’s needs. The lower level also boasts a large laundry room with ample storage and a two-piece bathroom, already plumbed for a shower, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Outside, underground sprinklers ensure a lush green lawn all summer long. Parking is never an issue with a double attached garage, additional space for an RV or boat, and extra room for another vehicle. This home has seen numerous updates, including new windows, flooring, and a furnace in 2021, along with a newer hot water tank installed in 2019. With very little left to do, this home is ready for its new owners. Call today to schedule your personal tour! (id:2493)

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Open House. Open House on Saturday, August 3, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Please visit our Open House at 8761 RIVERSIDE DRIVE in Grand Forks. See details here

Open House on Saturday, August 3, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Introducing a breathtaking masterpiece of luxury living. This custom-built home is an architectural gem, boasting unparalleled craftsmanship & exquisite attention to detail. With four spacious bedrooms & four opulent bathrooms, it offers the epitome of comfort & convenience for discerning homeowners. Step inside & appreciate the engineered hardwood flooring, the living room with natural gas fireplace, be greeted by a custom-designed kitchen that is the envy of culinary enthusiasts - adorned with stunning quartz countertops & equipped with stainless steel appliances, including a sleek eating bar for casual dining & entertaining, this kitchen is as functional as it is beautiful. Entertainment knows no bounds in this home with multiple covered outside entertainment areas. These outdoor spaces provide the perfect setting to enjoy the serene surroundings, river views & soak in the beauty of nature. Natural light floods every corner of this home, thanks to its large windows & oversized height rooms. The main level offers 2 bedrooms, full bathroom plus a master retreat with 4 piece ensuite, and walk in closet. The entry level offers a family room, full bathroom, and potential for versatile accommodations with its suite potential offering another bedroom, full bathroom, and entertaining space. Use as a guest retreat, in-law quarters or private office! You also have a double attached garage, offering ample room for vehicles, storage & more. You will love to enjoy the river view from your deck and call this place home! (id:2493)

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Open House. Open House on Saturday, January 11, 2020 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Featuring 4 bedrooms 2 Bathrooms huge living room bright and welcoming kitchen and dining that walks out onto your huge (15x29) covered deck and lower deck (ready for hot tub) and fu
Please visit our Open House at 3764 WOODLAND Drive in Trail.
Open House on Saturday, January 11, 2020 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Featuring 4 bedrooms 2 Bathrooms huge living room bright and welcoming kitchen and dining that walks out onto your huge (15x29) covered deck and lower deck (ready for hot tub) and fully fenced yard th
Impressive! If you are looking for a fantastic family home close to Glenmerry Elementary School, then this is it!! Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, huge living room, bright and welcoming kitchen and dining that walks out onto your huge (15x29) covered deck and lower deck (ready for hot tub), and fully fenced yard. Downstairs enjoy a large recroom with bar and cozy gas fireplace, huge laundry area, attached garage, and attached workshop! All of this plus it backs onto a park! This is a must see for anyone looking for that perfect family home! (id:2493)
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Open House. Open House on Saturday, October 19, 2019 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
This solid family home features 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms and more parking then you will need! You will love the newer kitchen updated flooring updated main bathroom with double vanity an
Please visit our Open House at 524 3RD Avenue in Rivervale.
Open House on Saturday, October 19, 2019 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM This solid family home features 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms and more parking then you will need! You will love the newer kitchen updated flooring updated main bathroom with double vanity and cozy gas firep
Dont let this one slip through the cracks! This solid family home features 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms, and more parking then you will need! You will love the newer kitchen, updated flooring, updated main bathroom with double vanity and cozy gas fireplace on the main floor. This house is perfect for entertaining with a large kitchen with eat in nook and separate dining area that opens on to your HUGE covered deck and back yard. Downstairs you have a 3rd bathroom, ample storage, central vacuum, newer furnace, a large rec room with wood stove, separate family room, and workshop or mudroom. You will love the detached garage (23'4x12'5), attached garage (12'x17'1), and two additional outdoor storage areas for the toys! Plus parking for 4 vehicles and trailer, all of this a located at the end of a no thru road! (id:2493)
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Open House. Open House on Saturday, June 22, 2019 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fantastic Family Home in Rivervale. Love the amazing river views from your covered deck. Featuring 3/4 Bedrooms with additional development available 3 bathrooms huge yard and attached
Please visit our Open House at 524 3RD Avenue in Rivervale.
Open House on Saturday, June 22, 2019 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Fantastic Family Home in Rivervale. Love the amazing river views from your covered deck. Featuring 3/4 Bedrooms with additional development available 3 bathrooms huge yard and attached carport detache
First time on the market! This solid home features 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms, and more parking then you will need! Nestled near the end of a no through road, with fabulous river views, this is the perfect family home. You will love the newer kitchen, updated flooring, upgraded 5 piece main bathroom and cozy gas fireplace on the main floor. This house is perfect for entertaining with a large kitchen with eat in nook and separate dining area that opens on to your HUGE covered deck and back yard. Downstairs you have ample storage, newer furnace, a large rec room with wood stove, and separate family room, or if you need that extra bedroom, turn that family room into a 5th bedroom. You will love the detached garage (23'4x12'5), attached garage (12'x17'1), and two additional outdoor storage areas for the toys! Plus parking for 4 vehicles! This is a MUST SEE! (id:2493)
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