The months of April and May are known to be the height of the real estate market in Ontario. That means the time is now—sellers should be getting ready to list quickly if they want to get their homes seen by the biggest pool of potential buyers.
In January, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) updated its predictions for the quarterly resale market housing forecast for 2025. It is predicting a higher increase in both national home sales this year— from from 6.6% to 8.6%—and average home prices, from 4.4% to 4.7%.
According to the Sault Ste. Marie Real Estate Board, the average price of homes sold in February 2025 was $334,932. Single detached homes in the price range of $350K-$450K sold the fastest, spending the least amount of time on the market in the last quarter of 2024.
If you want to sell your house fast, these tips from local REALTOR® Kyle Scali can help:
1. List your home in the spring
The hot spring market is not just a cliché; the data reflects the jump in activity. Simply by making sure to list your home in the spring you are making the one move that will get your home seen by the most buyers, giving it the greatest chance to get snapped up. Spring tends to be the best time to list because schools will soon be on summer vacation and more buyers (and not just families) are actively shopping for homes.
Reach out to your REALTOR® now, let them know your intention to sell and sell quickly, and they will get the process started right away, advising on next steps.
2. Pay for a pre-inspection
It’s also a good idea to have a home inspection done and made available to buyers, as it saves them time and peace of mind. Use the results of the inspection to address any issues that could potentially jeopardize the sale. If any repairs need to be made, you’ll avoid surprises and have a plan in place, whether that’s selling as-is, making the necessary fixes or negotiating a credit or price reduction with an interested buyer.
3. Aim for move-in ready
The majority of buyers are short on time and are looking for homes that are move-in ready. Most don’t have the resources, flexibility or interest in taking on a big remodelling project. To make your home stand out and appeal to the widest range of potential buyers, help them see how practical, convenient and hassle-free a move into your home could be.
Ensure your home is clean and tidy, that all of the appliances are in good working order and that any possible concerns have been addressed.
4. Boost your home’s curb appeal
Make your property shine.
The goal is to have your home look so inviting that it draws people in. Keep your lawn and garden tidy, removing any debris or fallen branches that wind and storms can leave behind. Sweep your walkway, shine your windows, lay down a brand new welcome mat, put a new lightbulb in your light fixture and polish the glass, and straighten the window coverings inside. An elegant planter filled with a simple arrangement completes the space and sets the stage for a great first impression.
5. Adjust the price if necessary
If by chance you aren’t getting the traffic you expected, adjust your list price. Your home should be seen and considered by as many buyers as possible and if people are staying away, it’s a sign they believe the price is too high. Your real estate agent will advise you on strategy here, with the aim of attracting interest quickly and getting serious buyers in the door. They’ll ensure your home is well-priced and effectively marketed, taking buyers’ reactions to your property into account.
For more detailed market insights, including up-to-date listings and resources, contact Kyle Scali of Century 21 Choice Realty Inc. for a no-obligation consultation or a FREE home evaluation.
Call 705-297-5866 or connect with him on Facebook today!