Heather Hadden of Hadden Homes helps buyers and sellers in Toronto get what they’re looking for year-round. Different seasons call for different approaches on both fronts, and Hadden has some valuable insights to share with anyone buying or selling this fall and winter.

How Buyers Can Get Ahead in the Upcoming Seller’s Market

Traditionally, home buyers find the greatest selection of available homes around May or June. From that point on, the number of homes on the market gradually declines, creating more competition and putting home buyers at more of a disadvantage.

This happens every year, and it’s being compounded by current market trends. List prices are up compared to this time last year, and the numbers of both new and active listings are down. This year, fall and winter may present a challenge for anyone looking to buy a new home. However, Hadden has some key tips to help those in the market find what they’re looking for and get the best deal they can.

1. Expect Multiple Offers on Freehold Homes

With so little inventory available, there’s going to be fierce competition. Homes are going to have multiple offers coming in, often pushing the price above asking.

2. Be Prepared Before Viewing Any Homes

Sellers will be able to pick and choose buyers, so you need to have everything in order. Hadden recommends having both a preapproval ready and having 5% of the purchase price available as soon as you make an offer to secure the sale.

3. The Early Bird Gets the Worm

If you’re interested in a listing, you should reach out as soon as possible. Hadden says that many sellers could be interested in pre-emptive offers, hopefully letting you avoid any potential bidding wars.

4. Get All the Information You Need

You should always ensure that you get all the information from your agent ahead of time, including what the current market trends say about price expectations.

5. What Sellers Can Do to Maximize Their Offers Ahead of the Holiday Season

Sellers, on the other hand, are going to have no problem finding buyers this season. Hadden says that a very strong seller’s market can be expected leading up to the holiday season and that there are a few key things sellers can do to maximize their offers.

6. Clean Up Your Home’s Exterior Now

If you’re going to be showing your home throughout the winter, it’s best to get everything squared away outside before the snow comes. Your home’s exterior is going to make a lasting first impression on buyers, so make sure your yard and gardens are in order.

7. Be Ready for a Longer Closing

While the winter market puts sellers at an advantage, it is slower overall. You might have to wait a bit longer than expected to get the best offer you can. Hadden says sellers should plan for a longer closing to avoid rushing into taking less than they can eventually get.

The Hadden Homes Method

Hadden Homes provides a full suite of real estate agent services to help both buyers and sellers get what they’re looking for this fall and winter season. With an extensive network, Hadden Homes can help buyers find the best upcoming listings and get their offers in earlier.

For sellers, Hadden Homes takes a comprehensive approach to presenting and marketing every listing they handle. Professional staging and photography, the latest online marketing methods, and more go into getting the best offers for their clients.