Every homeowner dreams of selling at the “peak” of the market—getting every last dollar out of their property. It’s tempting to hold off and wait for prices to rise, hoping to walk away with a bigger cheque at closing.

But here’s the truth: timing the market rarely works in your favour.

Why Waiting Can Backfire

• Markets shift without warning – Interest rates, buyer demand, and new inventory can turn quickly. By the time the “peak” is obvious, it’s usually already passed.

• Carrying costs add up – Each month you wait means more mortgage payments, taxes, utilities, and upkeep.

• Buy and sell cycles matter – If you’re moving up to a new home, the market you’re buying into matters just as much as the one you’re selling in. Gains on one end are often offset on the other.

A Smarter Approach for Sellers

Instead of trying to outguess the market:

1. Look at your life first – Are you ready to downsize, move up, or relocate? That should drive your timing more than the market headlines.

2. Price strategically – The right pricing strategy can generate strong interest and top-dollar offers, regardless of short-term trends.

3. Prepare your home – Presentation—staging, photography, marketing—often adds more value than waiting another six months.

What About Buyers?

Buyers also get caught in the timing trap. Many sit on the sidelines waiting for prices to drop or interest rates to change, only to find themselves priced out later. In reality, the “right time” to buy is when it fits your budget and lifestyle—not when the market happens to dip or rise.

The Bottom Line

Whether buying or selling, the best time is the time that aligns with your goals. Trying to perfectly time the market usually leads to stress, missed opportunities, or even financial setbacks.

👉 If you’d like an honest, no-pressure look at what your home could sell for right now—and whether moving today makes sense for you—I’d be happy to help. Let’s talk about your options and create a strategy that works for your situation.

Request a free home evaluation here or contact me today.

As the days get shorter and the temperatures start to drop, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for winter. A little preventative maintenance in the fall can save you from costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and keep your home safe and comfortable all season long.

Here’s a practical checklist every homeowner should tackle before the snow flies:

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters & Downspouts

Fallen leaves and debris can clog gutters, leading to ice dams and water damage. Clean them out and make sure downspouts are directing water at least a few feet away from your foundation.

2. Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors

Check for gaps where heat can escape. A quick bead of caulking or fresh weatherstripping keeps your home cozy and reduces heating costs.

3. Service Your Furnace

Schedule a professional inspection and replace the furnace filter. Regular servicing extends the life of your system and ensures it runs efficiently when you need it most.

4. Check Your Roof and Attic

Look for missing shingles, loose flashing, or signs of leaks. In your attic, make sure insulation is intact and there’s no evidence of moisture.

5. Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Faucets

Frozen pipes can burst and cause expensive damage. Shut off exterior water lines, drain hoses, and store them for the winter.

6. Prepare Your Yard

Rake leaves, trim back overhanging branches, and cover or store patio furniture. A final lawn cut and fertilizer application help your grass bounce back in spring.

7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With furnaces and fireplaces running, fall is a prime time to double-check batteries and test all detectors. Safety first.

8. Clean Your Chimney and Fireplace

If you use a wood-burning fireplace, have the chimney cleaned to prevent buildup and reduce fire hazards.

9. Inspect Walkways and Driveways

Fill cracks or uneven spots before freeze-thaw cycles make them worse. This helps avoid tripping hazards when surfaces get icy.

10. Stock Up on Winter Essentials

Make sure you’ve got shovels, ice melt, and warm gear ready before the first big snowfall.

Final Thoughts

Staying on top of seasonal home maintenance protects your biggest investment and keeps life running smoothly through the cold months.

👉 If you’re thinking of selling in the near future, a well-maintained home can also mean a higher selling price and fewer surprises during buyer inspections.

Need personalized advice on preparing your home for the market? Get your free Home Valuation Report or sign up for a free seller consultation.

You can also download this as a handy PDF checklist right here:

Home Maintenance Checklist Download