When Is the Best Time to Sell a House in Ontario?

What’s the worst time to list a house in Ontario?

According to Hoggard, there is no bad time to sell a house in Ontario.

“There’s never a worst time to sell because when you have the right agent who implements the right marketing strategies, you shouldn’t have an issue. It’s all about who you work with,” she says.

What seller concessions help close a sale in Ontario?

To help secure deals, many Ontario sellers are offering concessions or buyer credits as added incentives.

“Right now, sellers know that buyers have more options, so we are seeing sellers take care of things like buyer agent fees, home warranties, closing costs, and repairs,” says Hoggard.

Here are some common seller concessions and credits that could make your Ontario home more attractive to buyers:

• Assist with a portion of the buyer’s closing expenses
• Allocate funds toward a short-term mortgage interest rate reduction
• Provide a credit to cover repairs identified during the inspection period
• Cover the cost of the buyer’s home inspection or appraisal fees
• Pay the initial months of HOA dues, if they apply
• Agree to pay the buyer’s real estate agent commission
• Prepay property taxes or homeowners’ insurance for the first year

Insider tips to help sell your house in Ontario

As a leading agent in Ontario, Hoggard is experienced at guiding home sellers toward success, regardless of season or challenges.

“Trust that your real estate agent is truly there to look out for your best interests, whether it comes to the listing price or repairs to be made before going active on the market, can make all the difference,” she says.

Here are some of Hoggard’s insider tips to sell your home:

1. Price it right from the start

Setting an unrealistically high price often results in a stagnant listing that requires later markdowns. Developing a smart pricing approach anchored in the latest comps (recent comparable sales) helps to generate strong buyer interest right away.

2. Choose a great agent

Partner with a skilled local agent who knows your market and can expertly handle pricing, marketing, and negotiations. The proper agent will position your Ontario property to attract competitive offers. According to HomeLight’s data, the top 5% of agents earn sellers about 10% more than average.

3. Make the right repairs

Address visible flaws such as dripping faucets, broken tiles, or chipped paint — these minor defects often raise concerns that bigger problems might exist. Concentrate your repairs on those that provide a good return on investment and strengthen buyer confidence. A knowledgeable Ontario agent can also advise you on which repairs to skip.

4. Enhance in-person and virtual curb appeal

A neat lawn, tidy exterior, and brightly lit entrance boost curb appeal and make a great first impression for buyers visiting in person. Online, using high-quality photos and virtual tours helps your Ontario listing stand out when buyers first browse.

5. Declutter and depersonalize

Clear away clutter by removing unnecessary furniture, personal photographs, and collectibles to make living spaces feel bigger and more welcoming. Neutral, tidy rooms help potential buyers picture themselves living in the home.

6. Offer a home warranty

Including a home warranty can reassure buyers concerned about possible repair expenses, especially if your Ontario property is older. It may also give your listing an advantage in competitive markets.

7. Be flexible with showings

Making your home available for viewings as often as possible speeds up the selling process. Having showings on weekends and evenings is particularly helpful for buyers who are traveling or have full-time jobs. See more about showing schedules.

8. Consider staging

Staging a home can help it sell quicker and for a higher price because it allows buyers to better imagine the potential of the space. Even partial or virtual staging can make a big difference in your listing’s appeal.

Answers to other Ontario home-selling questions

What if I need a fast sale and closing in Ontario?

While some homes in Ontario can sell fast, a quick sale is never guaranteed. If you need a speedy sale or lack the time or funds to make necessary repairs, you might want to consider getting an all-cash offer through HomeLight’s Simple Sale service.

Within minutes, you can fill out a brief questionnaire and get a no-obligation cash offer within 24 hours. Simple Sale buys homes in nearly any condition across Ontario, allowing you to avoid the hassle of staging, showings, and repairs — and close in as little as 7 days.

What is the biggest mistake Ontario home sellers make?

Hoggard notes that a frequent mistake Ontario sellers make is underestimating the growing demand for homes in the area.

“Home buyers want properties with front and backyards with pools. Many of the newer homes being built lack this square footage, and home buyers are looking for that privacy,” she says.

Find a top Ontario agent for a successful sale

The best time to sell a house in Ontario depends on your goals. However, selling your home quickly and at a better price doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right knowledge, you can make smart choices and avoid common mistakes.

“There are so many things that go on in one real estate transaction, and sometimes, as a buyer or seller, you can easily get confused. Having a team that is truly there to communicate with you efficiently and guide you through the process is so important,” says Hoggard.

Partnering with a leading agent in Ontario ensures you’ll have a reliable guide and expert to help secure a successful sale. Connect with a top agent today.

If you’re buying and selling a home at the same time, explore HomeLight’s innovative Buy Before You Sell program. This solution helps you tap into your home’s equity to simplify the process. Submit a non-contingent offer on your next house and avoid moving twice. Watch this brief video to discover more.

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