Planning to buy a house for sale in Welland or sell your current one anytime soon? You are probably trying to figure out the right time to step foot in the market. The old-school rulebook says spring and summer are usually the peak seasons for real estate. But depending on your situation, these months might not be your best time to buy or sell a home. There are several factors to consider when buying or selling a home, and we will cover them in depth below.

The Right Time to Sell a House

Traditionally, spring and summer have always been considered the best time to sell a home. And for good reason! The weather is favourable in spring and summer, making it easier for people to look for homes. So, more active buyers will be in the market during these months. With more buyers looking, the competition for houses spikes and this increased demand can drive up the price of homes. These seasons also make presenting your home in its most appealing light easier. Homes usually look better when greenery, flowers, and sunshine surround them. 

With all these perks, it’s no surprise that spring and summer have traditionally been the top seasons for selling a home. But here’s the thing: the recent trends are shifting the housing market and its old rules. Now, the best time to sell might not be as predictable as it once was. 

Changing Seasonal Patterns in the Housing Market

Since the pandemic, traditional seasonal patterns in the housing market have become less predictable. For instance, in 2024, we saw the traditional increase in home sales and prices during the spring and summer months. However, something unexpected happened later in the year. 

HOME SALES DATA 2023-2024

Source – The Canadian Home

As you can see from the above table, the 2024 housing market showed a strong uptick in activity from September to December – a trend unseen in 2023. In fact, sales activity in October 2024 was 33% higher than in 2023. The market activity surged in the fall and winter (the official slow season in real estate) because of the rate cuts and shifting economic conditions. Home prices in Welland also reached their highest point in December. 

The above data confirms that while spring and summer still have their perks, they are not always the best seasons for selling anymore. So, you cannot just assume that spring or summer is your only window of opportunity when selling your home.

So, When Should You Put Your House Up for Sale?

The right time to sell a home is when it aligns with the market conditions and your life’s circumstances. Here are some signs it might be time to sell your home:

• It is a seller’s market – more buyers looking for homes than available listings.
• You have built up enough equity.
• You have outgrown your current home or need to downsize.

The Perfect Time to Buy a House

The “right time” to buy a house depends on many factors, such as seasonality, the state of the housing market, and, most importantly, your personal situation. Let’s explore these factors in-depth –

SEASONALITY 

Unlike selling, which is typically better in warmer months, home buying does not have one best season. In reality, every season has its own unique advantages for buyers. 

Spring

• You will find a bigger selection of homes during the spring as sellers wait to list their homes during this period. Hence, you will have a better chance of finding a home that ticks all your boxes.
• The warmer weather makes it easier to explore neighbourhoods and inspect properties.

Summer

• More daylight hours mean more time to schedule showings after work.
• Sellers are motivated to close before fall, especially those with kids starting a school year.

Fall

• By fall, many buyers have already found their new homes. So, you won’t likely have to face tough competition or get caught in bidding wars.
• Many sellers want to finalise deals before the holidays or the harsh winter months. Because of this, they are more willing to negotiate on price or closing terms.

Winter

• The housing market usually cools off in winter. Since fewer buyers are in the market, sellers will likely lower their prices to attract offers.
• People selling homes in winter are often highly motivated. This urgency could be due to job changes, financial reasons, or personal circumstances. This seller’s motivation factor could work to your advantage in negotiations. 

As you have seen, each season has its unique advantages for homebuyers. If you want more options and don’t mind the competition, spring and summer could be your perfect time. Fall and winter are better if you need lower home prices and better deals. You must consider what’s most important for you and choose the season that aligns with your needs.

MARKET CONDITIONS

Market conditions can play a big role in determining the right time. Here are three scenarios when home buying makes the most sense:

1. It’s a Buyer’s Market 

A buyer’s market is when there are more houses for sale in Welland than buyers. You will have more choices and stronger negotiating power in this market. If you notice more homes staying on the market longer than usual, it is a sign that you are in a buyer’s market.

2. The Interest Rates Are Low

Keep an eye on interest rates; if rates have fallen, it’s a good time to buy. At the moment, mortgage rates have dropped significantly throughout the country, thanks to the BoC’s seven consecutive rate cuts. In 2023, Canada’s lowest 5-year fixed mortgage rate was 4.29%, while the 5-year variable rate was 5.30%. However, as of March 2025, the best 5-year mortgage rate is 3.79% and the 5-year variable rate is 3.95% (Ratehub.ca). So, now could be a great time to buy a home if all the other factors align in your favour.

3. Home Prices Are Holding Steady or Falling

If home prices are steady or declining, it’s a good time to buy. You will have more power to negotiate and secure your dream home at a great deal.

YOUR PERSONAL SITUATION

Finally, the right time to buy is when YOU are ready – financially and emotionally. You can take the next step towards homeownership if you –

1. Earn a steady paycheck from a reliable job.
2. Have a good credit score, and your debt is under control.
3. Plan to stay in the neighbourhood for at least five years.
4. Are feeling excited rather than stressed about the responsibilities of homeownership.
5. Have saved up enough for the down payment, closing costs, and an emergency fund.

Are You Still Debating When to Buy or Sell a Home?

You are not alone! Home-buying and selling are big decisions, and the real estate market can be confusing. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to make this buying or selling decision alone. A real estate expert can help you understand the market, weigh your options, and make the best decision for your situation. So, reach out to an expert realtor today and make informed decisions with confidence.