THE WINTER MARKET ADVANTAGE
PLAN NOW TO MOVE WITH CONFIDENCE
Spring and early summer are traditionally viewed as the busiest seasons in real estate, but the preparation that leads to confident decisions, whether buying or selling, often starts months earlier.
That’s why winter, with its slower pace and reduced market pressure, can be a strategic advantage for anyone planning a move in the upcoming year.
For sellers, this quieter season creates valuable space to research comparable properties, consult with a real estate professional, complete selective repairs, plan ahead for staging, and build a pricing strategy without time-sensitive pressure.
Buyers, meanwhile, can use this period to understand neighbourhood trends, finalize financing, explore different property types, and align expectations before competing with the spring rush.
SMART WINTER PREP STEPS
- Review recent and upcoming neighbourhood activity and pricing trends
- Identify cost-effective updates, repairs, or pre-listing improvements
- Confirm financing and understand your buying power in different scenarios
- Discuss staging, photography timing, and market positioning
- Create a personalized timeline that supports your spring goals
A STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE
Winter planning allows decisions to be made based on clarity rather than urgency. When buyers and sellers have time to evaluate their options, compare strategies, and prepare with intention, the end result is often stronger positioning, fewer surprises, and greater confidence when the market becomes more active.Thoughtful preparation leads to confident decisions.
DID YOU KNOW?
Homes shown in winter can reveal energy efficiency, natural light, and comfort in ways that warmer months can’t. Observing these details now can save time, effort, and surprises later.If you’d like to review your market position or explore a tailored preparation plan, We're here to help you map out next steps at a pace that fits your goals.
WINTER GLOW DIY
Simple décor to brighten your space
- Use clear glass jars, vases, or empty candle containers
- Add pinecones, dried citrus slices, cinnamon sticks, or stones
- Place a battery tea light or a short strand of fairy lights inside
- Group two or three together for a balanced look
- Set them on a table, windowsill, mantel, or entryway
GROWING INVENTORY IS CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR BUYERS
In November, 492 homes exchanged hands via the MLS® (Multiple Listing Service®) System of the London and St. Thomas
Association of REALTORS® (LSTAR). That was down 19.2%, compared to the same month a year
ago, but up 15.5% from November 2023.“Although down from the previous November, sales were on par with activity in the last four years,” said Dale Marsh, 2025 LSTAR Chair. “Based on the economic climate across the country and the uncertainty in the marketplace, many potential buyers remain on the sidelines. This is evident by the 5.7 months of inventory in November, which is the highest inventory level recorded in the month, over the past 10 years.”
Average sales price remained virtually unchanged from the previous month. It was $604,994 in November, down 5.6% compared to the same time a year ago. In October, average sales price was $605,560.“Historically, we usually experience a quieter season during the winter months,” Marsh said. “With the amount of inventory available, it may be an opportune time for potential buyers to get into the market.”Source: https://lstar.ca/articles/home-sales-remain-flat-in-november London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® – December 4th, 2025WINTER BRIGHT… EASY WAYS TO USE NATURAL LIGHT
As the days grow shorter, maximizing natural light can boost mood, energy, and overall well-being. Exposure to daylight helps
regulate sleep cycles, improves focus, and creates a more inviting atmosphere indoors.Here are some tips to bring more light into your space:- Keep windows clear of heavy drapes during the day
- Use mirrors to reflect light into darker corners
- Add light-coloured accessories like throw pillows or table linens
- Rearrange furniture to make the most of sunny spots
EVERYDAY BENEFITS OF INDOOR PLANTS
Adding greenery indoors does more than brighten a room. Plants can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and even boost air quality. During the colder months, certain varieties thrive with little effort, making them perfect companions all winter long. Below are some examples of easy care plants.- Snake Plant: Tough, Low-maintenance
- Cyclamen: Adds Seasonal Colour
- Peace Lily: Fresh, Forgiving
- Jade Plant and ZZ Plant: Minimal Watering
BAKED BRIE with Cranberries and Walnuts
Prep: 5 mins Cook: 15 mins Yield: 8 ServingsINGREDIENTS
- 8 oz round of Brie cheese (double or triple cream Brie)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons toasted walnuts (or pecans), chopped
- Your favorite crackers
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350°F and place rack in center position.
- Use a knife to cut the rind off the top of cheese, discard. Place Brie in oven safe baking dish, set aside.
- Chop cranberries, place them in a small microwave safe bowl, add orange juice and stir well. Place in the microwave for 50 seconds, this softens them up. Pour berries over Brie and top with chopped walnuts.
- Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until cheese is soft and warm. Remove from oven, place on a pretty dish and serve with crackers.
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Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale and/or buyers or sellers currently under contract with a brokerage.
Information provided is for general purposes only. Readers should independently verify tips, advice, or suggestions. Outcomes may vary. View important disclosures and notices about trademarks at rlp.ca/notices.