Should I Wait Until Spring to Sell?
Should I wait until spring to sell?
After all, the most common fallacy in real estate is that the spring market is stronger. But is it? Well, what are we ranking the strength by? The number of sales or the number of buyers?
Sure, the lion’s share of volume may be turned over in the spring, but if you are a seller does that turnover necessarily mean it’s the best time to list?
Look, when deciding to list your house, forget when most of the houses sell. Instead focus on when the most amount of buyers shop with the least amount of choice.
It’s important to understand that there are really only two big buyer cycles in a real estate calendar year: buyers who want to get in before summer, and buyers that want to get in before Christmas. These two time periods probably influence buyers more than anything else except for, “that house finally hitting the market.”
Make no mistake, this is not a complete hard and fast rule. There are always exceptions.
Homes will sell at Christmas this year, and homes will sell in August, or on Thanksgiving. There is a buyer for everything. To really put the odds in your favour as a seller though, you should look to these two seasonal patterns when deciding the right time to list.
For example, if you need a March closing and you list in October or November, the majority of your purchasing audience is already hoping to buy a Christmas tree for your house. Is that everyone? No, but how can you expect to get the most value for your home with a watered-down audience where only a portion of them can accommodate your closing? January and February can be an excellent time to list.
Many don’t realize this, but several buying decisions are made when we spend those special times at home.
The Christmas tree branch is blocking the TV, or the foyer is too crowded for guests arriving, or there isn’t enough parking for your guests. Maybe it’s a combination of that and too much eggnog, but the fist slams down and someone comments, “maybe after the holidays we start looking for a home.”
By the same token, most buyers looking for a property approaching December will eventually lose optimism that they will be able to purchase and be settled before the holidays. With Christmas music and the obligations of the holidays moving to the forefront of everyone’s lives, the supply of new listings slows as we work our way through December. Ultimately, the search is back burnered until the holidays are over. Trust me, I have these conversations with my buyer clients every year.
Think about how many buyers can be ready to go just after New Year’s Eve; you have everyone who put their search on hold only to pick it up again into the new year, plus the new buyers who have made the decision over the holidays to move.
People start to connect or reconnect with Realtors about their needs after life gets normal again, which means a large buyer audience is ready for houses to hit the market in the new year.
This cycle is echoed throughout the summer as well.
Buyers lose hope that their purchase will happen before summer and decide to get out camping one last time, or start to get those back to school to-do lists checked off.
And after Labour Day? Same thing as after New Years.
Buyers who were not able to fulfill their goals before the end of summer pick up where they left off, and new buyers who went for one too many swims at other people’s homes start to focus on their next house – a decision made over the holidays.
These first two cycles of the year, after New Years and post Labour Day can be some of our strongest selling periods. Supply levels are not quite caught up yet and buyers are ready to fulfill their goals.
Now, I must finish by saying if you need to list approaching some of the less vibrant times of year I’ve described above and you don’t have the luxury of timing it better, feel free to throw this article right over your shoulder.
Guelph’s strong market usually offers success to sellers year-round.
This article isn’t meant to discourage, but rather to answer that common question “when is the best time to list”. If the option is there, it’s worth considering.
And if you can’t list at the times above?
So when people ask me “Should I wait until spring to sell”, after 16 years of selling homes I have come to realize it’s the smaller efforts that often have the biggest impact.
Truthfully, I have made my career out of always doing just that. My clients count on it regardless of the season.
If you’ve been thinking about downsizing, summer is the perfect season to make a move. The warm weather makes exploring new neighbourhoods easier, real estate activity is high, and it’s the ideal time to settle into a new home and community before the fall. But downsizing isn’t just about square footage, it’s about lifestyle. Choosing the right neighbourhood can make all the difference in how you enjoy this next chapter. Whether you’re retiring, becoming an empty nester, or just looking to simplify, here’s what to look for in a community-oriented neighbourhood and some of Guelph’s best spots to find it.
Guelph is full of cozy cafés and vibrant coffee spots—but when the weather warms up, there's nothing better than taking your latte outdoors. Whether you’re setting up shop for a remote workday or meeting us to chat real estate, these local cafés offer the perfect mix of great coffee, welcoming atmosphere, and (yes!) patio seating. 1. Red Brick Café 📍 8 Douglas St Red Brick’s downtown patio is tucked just off the main street, making it a peaceful spot despite its central location. Grab a spot under the shade and enjoy a treat, the Red Brick Cafe offers specialty coffee, delicious food, craft beer and a warm atmosphere. 2. Planet Bean Coffee 📍 2 Wyndham St N, 740 York Rd, 333 Grange Rd Planet Bean is a Guelph classic—and each location has its own vibe. The downtown shop offers sidewalk seating right in the heart of the city, perfect for people-watching between emails. Meanwhile, the York and Grange locations both offer quieter patios surrounded by greenery. 3. Capistrano Bistro & Espresso Bar 📍 146 Wyndham St N Not only is the inside of Capistrano beautifully styled, but their patio is also one of the more elegant options in town. With umbrellas, bistro tables, and a quiet street feel, it's a great spot to enjoy your afternoon. 4. Balzac’s Coffee Roasters 📍 5 Gordon St, Guelph, ON A beautifully designed café right in the downtown. Balzac’s brings Toronto café vibes to Guelph. With high ceilings, big windows, and well-brewed classics, it has a charming outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying your coffee al fresco during warmer months. The patio provides a pleasant setting for informal meetings or a peaceful work session amidst the downtown buzz. 5. Double Rainbow Café 📍 60 Ontario St, Guelph, ON Nestled in the heart of The Ward, Double Rainbow Café offers more than just exceptional coffee and tea. It's a space where art, community, and inclusivity converge. The café boasts a selection of specialty drinks, including lavender and cardamom lattes, alongside a variety of teas and baked goods. Coffee + Conversation = Our Kind of Combo Whether you're planning your next move or just looking for a cozy corner to get work done, these local cafés offer more than just caffeine—they’re community hubs, meeting places, and inspiring spaces to connect. Need a recommendation—or want to meet for a coffee and real estate chat? Reach out to the Hudson Smith Real Estate Group and let’s make it happen.
Rockwood, Ontario, is a hidden gem nestled in Wellington County, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and convenient amenities. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a vibrant community to call home, here are the top five reasons why Rockwood should be on your radar: 1. Natural Beauty at Rockwood Conservation Area At the heart of Rockwood lies the breathtaking Rockwood Conservation Area, renowned for its limestone cliffs, caves, and glacial potholes. This natural haven offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, canoeing, and camping, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. 2. Active Lifestyle Opportunities For those seeking an active lifestyle, Rockwood doesn't disappoint. The town offers various recreational activities, including hiking trails, canoeing on the Eramosa River, and exploring the unique geological features of the area. The Rockmosa Older Adults Centre provides access to drop-in activities, social events, and fitness programs, ensuring residents have ample opportunities to stay active and engaged. 3. Vibrant Local Amenities and Events Despite its small-town charm, Rockwood offers a variety of amenities. The Rockmosa Community Centre is a hub for recreational activities, featuring sports fields, a splash pad, and a library. The town also hosts events like the Rockwood Farmers' Market, fostering community engagement and supporting local businesses. 4. Convenient Location Despite its small-town charm, Rockwood offers easy access to larger urban centers. It's situated less than 40 minutes from Milton and Mississauga, making it a convenient location for commuters. Additionally, the town features nice restaurants, quaint stores, and delicious bakeries, providing residents with local amenities and dining options. 5. Rich History and Culture Rockwood's history dates back to the early 19th century, with the Eramosa River playing a central role in its development. The town's historical sites, such as the ruins of the Harris & Co. Rockwood Woolen Mill, offer a glimpse into its industrial past. This rich heritage adds depth and character to the community. Rockwood combines natural beauty, a strong sense of community, convenient location, rich history, and active lifestyle opportunities, making it an attractive destination for individuals and families alike. If you're looking for a place that offers both tranquility and engagement, Rockwood might just be the perfect fit for you. If you're thinking about making a move, our team would love to help you discover all that Rockwood has to offer. From market insights to private showings, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s find your next home — in a place that truly feels like one.
