Why winter can work in your favour

Fewer homes come on the market in the colder months, which means less to choose from — but also less competition. People house-hunting in January usually aren’t browsing for fun: they’re relocating for work, have a lease ending, or simply need to move. For sellers, that means more motivated buyers. For buyers, it can mean fewer bidding wars and a little more room to negotiate.

Selling in winter: tips that make a difference

  • Clear the way. Shovel and salt the driveway, steps and walkway before every showing. A buyer’s first impression shouldn’t be slipping on ice.
  • Turn up the heat and the lights. Short days mean many showings happen after dark, so make the house warm, bright and welcoming.
  • Make room for boots. A mat and a spot for wet footwear at the door helps buyers feel at home.
  • Show off the other seasons. If you have photos of your yard and garden in summer, share them — it helps buyers picture the property under the snow.
  • Keep up with the snow. Ice dams, blocked vents and drifts against the house can raise red flags, so stay on top of them while you’re listed.

Buying in winter: what to look for

Winter is the honest season. A house that’s warm and dry in February has passed a real test.

  • Feel for drafts around windows and doors, and look for heavy frost or condensation on the glass.
  • Look up. Big icicles and ice dams along the eaves can point to attic insulation or ventilation issues.
  • Check the heat. Is the house comfortable from room to room? Ask about the heating type, its age, and recent costs.
  • Ask about the oil tank, if there is one — and check with your insurer early.
  • Think about the street. Is it steep? How quickly is it plowed? Where would you park in a storm? Anyone who remembers Snowmageddon in January 2020 knows that matters here.
  • Ask what the snow is hiding. Ask about the roof’s age, the driveway and the yard, and whether the seller has photos from other seasons.

Winter inspections

Always get a home inspection, winter or not — but know its limits this time of year. An inspector may not be able to walk a snow-covered roof or see the foundation and grading around the house. Ask your inspector what they could and couldn’t assess, and ask the seller about the roof’s age and any repairs. Spring thaw is when water problems tend to show up, so it’s also worth asking about the basement and the sump pump.

Closing and moving in winter

Give yourself some buffer around the holidays, when schedules get busier for lawyers, lenders and movers. Book your movers early, have a plan B if a storm hits on moving day, and arrange to have your utilities and heat on before you take possession so the house doesn’t sit cold. And budget for the rest of your closing costs ahead of time.

Whatever the season, the right move is the one that fits your timing. If you’re thinking about buying or selling this winter, our team is happy to talk it through — including whether to list now or wait for spring.