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.
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions aren’t just important — they’re everything. In today’s market, buyers form opinions within seconds of walking through the door (or scrolling through photos online). That’s where home staging comes in — the subtle art of helping buyers see themselves living in your home. What Is Home Staging, Really? Home staging goes far beyond decorating. It’s about creating an emotional connection. A professional stager uses layout, lighting, colour, and accessories to highlight your home’s best features while minimizing distractions. Every detail — from the placement of a chair to the tone of a wall — is chosen with intention. At Hudson Smith Real Estate Group, we’ve seen time and time again how the right staging transforms a space. A well-staged home doesn’t just look beautiful; it photographs beautifully, feels inviting, and draws in buyers who are ready to act. The Impact on Buyer Perception Staging helps buyers picture themselves in the home — not your home, but their potential one. Neutral palettes, uncluttered surfaces, and strategic furniture placement make rooms feel larger, brighter, and more functional. According to industry studies, over 80% of buyers say that professionally staged homes make it easier to visualize the property as their future home. That emotional pull is what often leads to quicker offers and stronger sale prices. The Financial Payoff It’s natural to wonder if staging is worth the investment. The numbers say yes: Staged homes typically sell up to 73% faster than unstaged ones. They can sell for 6–10% more on average, easily covering the cost of staging. Even partial staging — such as main living areas and primary bedrooms — can dramatically improve online engagement and showings .Think of it like preparing your home for its debut performance: the better the presentation, the bigger the audience response. Online Appeal in a Digital World Most buyers start their search online, meaning your listing photos are the first showing. A staged home captures attention instantly — bright, balanced, and visually appealing. Combined with professional photography and video, staging ensures your home makes a lasting first impression — one that stops buyers mid-scroll and makes them want to see more. Our Approach at HSG We work closely with trusted stagers and stylists who understand how to enhance a home’s personality while keeping it universally appealing. Whether it’s a minimalist downtown condo or a sprawling family home, our goal is to highlight what makes each property shine. Of course, we’ll have our stager come to your home and make sure it’s picture-perfect — a complimentary service included when you list with our team. Every listing tells a story — staging helps make sure it’s the story buyers want to hear.
Guelph has long been known as one of Ontario’s most welcoming and community-driven cities, and it’s no surprise that families continue to choose it as home. With excellent schools, plenty of green space, safe streets, and a strong sense of community, Guelph offers a wide variety of neighbourhoods suited to families at every stage of life. If you’re thinking of making a move in 2025, here are some of the best family-friendly neighbourhoods in Guelph to explore. 1. Westminster Woods & Clairfields South Guelph’s Westminster Woods and Clairfields areas are consistently top picks for families. With extensive trails, nearby parks, and highly regarded schools like Westminster Woods Public School, it’s a safe, vibrant community where kids can walk or bike to friends’ houses. Plus, you’re close to shopping at Clairfields Commons and have quick access to Highway 401 for commuters. 2. Kortright Hills Nestled in Guelph’s south end, Kortright Hills is loved for its quiet, winding streets, mature trees, and larger lot sizes that give families room to spread out. The neighbourhood backs onto plenty of green space and trails, making it easy to enjoy nature right outside your door. With Kortright Hills Public School at its heart, it’s a true family-oriented community where kids can walk to school and neighbours know each other by name. 3. Exhibition Park For those who love character homes and community charm, Exhibition Park is a gem. Centered around its namesake park — complete with tennis courts, splash pad, playgrounds, and green space — this neighbourhood combines history with walkable access to downtown. Families love the sense of community and the chance to be steps away from Guelph’s best festivals, markets, and schools. 4. Kortright East & Kortright West South of the city’s core, Kortright East and West are two of Guelph’s most popular family neighbourhoods. Kortright East is known for its larger executive homes on mature lots, while Kortright West offers a wider mix of housing styles, from established properties to newer builds. Both neighbourhoods give families easy access to schools, shopping at Stone Road Mall, the University of Guelph, and plenty of trails and green space. 5. East End One of Guelph’s fastest-growing areas, the East End is an excellent option for families seeking more affordable housing without sacrificing amenities. With schools, parks, and community centers built into the neighbourhood design, it’s a hub for young families. Ongoing development also means new amenities are constantly being added, making it a great place to plant roots for the future. Why Families Love Guelph No matter where you choose, Guelph offers families: Top-rated Public and Catholic schools An active sports and recreation culture Abundant parks, trails, and green spaces Safe neighbourhoods with strong community pride Quick connections to the 401, Kitchener-Waterloo, and the GTA Thinking About a Move in 2025? At the Hudson Smith Group, we know that the right neighbourhood is just as important as the right home. Whether you’re looking for quiet streets, walkability, or the best schools, our team can help you find a community that fits your family’s lifestyle. 📩 Reach out today to start your search in Guelph’s most family-friendly neighbourhoods.
Fall in Guelph is something special. The air turns crisp, the leaves explode in colour, and there’s a little extra magic in everyday routines. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or quiet moments to soak in the season, here are eight cozy fall activities to enjoy around Guelph and beyond. 1. Pick the Perfect Pumpkin Head out to Strom’s Farm & Bakery or nearby patches to find that perfect pumpkin. From corn mazes to wagon rides, pumpkin patches are the ultimate fall day out. 2. Wander Through the Farmers’ Market The Guelph Farmers’ Market is brimming with autumn’s best: apples, squash, pies, and preserves. It’s a foodie’s dream and a great way to support local growers. 3. Sip & Stay a While at a Café Fall and lattes go hand in hand. Curl up at Found Coffee, Balzac’s, or Red Brick Café and try a seasonal drink — from pumpkin spice to chai — while enjoying the cozy atmosphere. 4. Hike Among the Fall Colours Guelph’s trails shine this time of year. Explore Preservation Park, the Arboretum, or Royal Recreation Trail to enjoy a canopy of brilliant fall leaves. 5. Take a Scenic Drive If you’re up for a mini road trip, cruise through Wellington County backroads or head toward Elora and Fergus for breathtaking fall scenery. Pack a thermos of cider and make it a day. 6. Visit a Local Winery or Brewery Savour the season with a glass of something local. Wineries and craft breweries around Guelph often release small-batch fall flavours that pair perfectly with cozy evenings. 7. Get Lost in a Corn Maze Challenge yourself to one of the region’s corn mazes (like Strom’s). It’s a fun, interactive way to spend a crisp afternoon — and kids love it too. 8. Have a Cozy Night In Don’t underestimate the simple joy of fall at home. Light a candle, bake something sweet, and curl up under a blanket. Sometimes the coziest activity is staying put. Fall in Full Swing With so many ways to embrace the season, fall in Guelph is all about making memories. From outdoor adventures to simple comforts at home, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Thinking of a new home to cozy up in this fall? Our team at the Hudson Smith Group is here to help you find the perfect place. Get in touch with us today to start your next move.
