As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to thank you for being part of our community 😊 December is always a special time—a mix of reflecting on the past year and looking forward to the opportunities ahead. Whether you’re gearing up for a busy holiday season or starting to plan for big changes in 2025, now is the perfect time to prepare and set yourself up for success.

 

If selling your home is on your mind for the new year, we’re here to help make the process as smooth and rewarding as possible.

 

 

In November, 539 homes were sold in Waterloo Region through the MLS® System of the Cornerstone Association of REALTORS®. This marked a 21.1% increase compared to November 2023 but fell 13.1% below the 10-year average for the month.

While sales showed significant year-over-year improvement, activity remained below historical averages and dipped slightly from October levels. The market continues to balance, with increased inventory providing buyers with more options.

 

The average sale price for all residential properties was $754,604, reflecting a 0.2% decline year-over-year and 3.3% drop month-over-month.

Months of Inventory:

The average time to sell a home in November was 27 days, consistent with October but slightly higher than the five-year average of 19 days.

 

 

Stable prices and increased inventory make this a favourable time for buyers, particularly with recent mortgage reforms enhancing opportunities for first-time buyers and those purchasing new builds. Expanded eligibility for 30-year amortizations and higher insured mortgage limits will create additional pathways to homeownership.

 

 

According to the RE/MAX Canada Housing Outlook, Kitchener-Waterloo is poised for recovery in 2025:

Buyer Trends:

Development Trends: 

 

Developers are prioritizing small, detached homes, stacked townhouses, and traditional townhomes to meet buyer demand.

 

 

With declining interest rates and inflation, buyer activity is expected to strengthen, replicating the robust market conditions of 2021. A strong spring season is anticipated, with steady price growth as rates stabilize.

 

As we approach the new year, this balanced market presents exciting opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re considering buying your first home or selling in this dynamic market, now is the time to plan.

 

Curious about how to get started?

Download our Home Staging Guide or 30 Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for More Money to learn strategies that make a difference. Click below to get your copy today!

Selling your home in the winter has its challenges, but with the right approach, you can make your property shine and attract motivated buyers. Winter is the perfect time to start planning, especially if you’re targeting the early spring market, which often begins in February. Here’s how you can get a head start:

 

Boost Your Curb Appeal
Even in winter, first impressions matter. Add seasonal planters with hardy evergreens, red dogwood branches, and pinecones for a welcoming look. Keep walkways and driveways clear of snow and ice, and add a tasteful wreath to the front door to create an inviting entryway.

 

Maximize Lighting
With shorter days, proper lighting is key. Keep curtains and blinds open to let in natural light and clean windows to enhance brightness. Add warm table lamps or floor lamps to brighten darker areas, and use outdoor lighting to highlight key features like porches and driveways.

 

Create a Cozy Atmosphere Indoors
Make your home feel like a warm retreat. Keep it at a comfortable temperature during showings, light the fireplace if you have one, and add cozy touches like blankets and subtle seasonal décor. The smell of freshly baked cookies or cinnamon can leave a lasting impression.

 

Tackle Winter Maintenance
Show buyers your home is well cared for. Ensure the roof and gutters are clear of debris and ice, and highlight upgrades like a new furnace or smart thermostat to show your home is winter-ready.

 

Focus on creating a clean, organized entryway for buyers to remove boots and coats. Add area rugs to hard floors for warmth and practicality, and use subtle seasonal scents like pine or vanilla to make the space feel inviting.

 

Planning ahead is crucial to making the best impression when it’s time to sell. Staging is a great place to start, and my free Home Staging Guide is filled with tips to help you prepare your home and attract serious buyers.

As December winds down and the promise of a fresh start approaches, it’s the perfect time to get your home organized for the year ahead. Whether you’re planning to sell, renovate, or simply reduce stress, these practical tips can help you start 2025 on the right foot.

 

Rearrange furniture for better flow, clear out expired pantry items, and organize closets with matching hangers and labeled bins. Even small updates can make your home feel more functional and inviting.

 

Start gathering receipts, invoices, and financial records now to make tax time easier. Use a physical or digital folder to keep everything in one place.

 

Reflect on what worked in your home organization this year and commit to small, daily habits like sorting mail immediately or tidying up each evening. Apps like Trello or Google Keep can help you stay on track.

 

If selling or renovating is on your mind for 2025, now is the time to start planning. Decluttering and staging your home early can give you a head start on the spring market, which often begins in February in Ontario.

 

As winter sets in, add soft throws, candles, and warm lighting to make your home feel inviting. Organize holiday décor as you pack it away to make next year’s setup easier.

 

Starting the year with an organized home isn’t just about creating a clean space—it’s about setting yourself up for a peaceful, productive, and stress-free 2025.

 

If selling your home is part of your plans, I’d love to help you prepare and create a strategy for success. Reach out today for a free consultation, and let’s make 2025 your best year yet!