When is the Best Time to Buy or Sell a Home?  

One of the most common questions I get from sellers is: “When is the best time to sell my house?” The second most common? “When is the best time to buy a home?”

Most real estate agents respond with:

• "When you’re ready!" or

• "When there’s less competition!"

Both answers are true, but let’s go deeper. As a real estate broker in Oakville and Burlington, Ontario, I rely on real market data to guide buyers and sellers to make strategic moves. If you’re considering buying or selling a home, understanding market trends can help you maximize your investment.

What the Market Data Tells Us: Best Months to Buy or Sell

Let’s analyze historical real estate trends over the past 20 years in Burlington and the GTA.

1. Sales Volume Trends Over 20 Years

• December is the slowest month for sales (except April 2020 due to COVID-19 uncertainty).

• March, April, and May are the busiest months for home sales.

2. Last 5 Years – Sales Volume in Burlington

• December sales are consistently low (111, 121, 126 homes sold).

• March, April, and May sales are 300% higher than December and January.

3. GTA Market Trends

• Toronto, Halton, and Peel Region follow the same pattern – December is slow, while March to May is the peak.

4. How Home Prices Fluctuate

• Lowest Median Sale Prices: December & January.

• Highest Median Sale Prices: March, April, and May.

• In Burlington, the median home price in Dec 2018 was $665K, while Dec 2024 was $925K.

• The peak of the market? February 2022, when median sale prices hit $1.3M due to record-low interest rates and high demand.

Best Time to Buy a Home: December & January

If you’re a buyer, the best time to purchase a home is December and January. Here’s why:

1. Seller Motivation is High

Sellers listing in the winter are often more motivated due to:

• Job relocations

• Financial reasons

• The need to sell before spring

More motivation = better negotiation opportunities.

2. Less Competition = More Buying Power

• Fewer buyers = fewer bidding wars.

• You can negotiate better terms, price reductions, and closing costs.

3. Lower Home Prices

• Historically, home prices dip in winter due to reduced demand.

• You could save thousands compared to spring and summer markets.

4. Faster Closing Times

• Fewer transactions in winter = quicker mortgage approvals, inspections, and closings.

5. Transparency in Home Conditions

• Buying in winter allows you to test insulation, heating, and overall home durability in extreme conditions.

BONUS: Additional Seasonal Savings

• Moving companies offer discounted winter rates.

• Contractors & handymen are more available for renovations.

• Furniture & appliance stores run holiday sales.

Thinking of buying? 📲 Contact me at RealtorRoshan.ca for the best winter deals!

Best Time to Sell a Home: March to May

If you’re a seller, spring is the best time to list your home. Here’s why:

1. Higher Buyer Demand

• More buyers enter the market before summer.

• Competition drives home prices up.

2. Favorable Weather Conditions

• Warmer days = more home showings and open houses.

• Curb appeal improves with blooming gardens & green lawns.

3. Emotional Appeal of Spring

• Homes feel more inviting with natural light and fresh landscaping.

• Buyers are emotionally motivated to act quickly.

4. Perfect Timing for Families

• Families want to move before the new school year starts.

• Many relocations and job transfers happen in spring.

5. Stronger Market Confidence

• Buyers feel more financially secure in spring.

• Economic conditions and consumer confidence tend to be higher.

Seller Pro Tip: Prepare Early!

• Hire a Realtor in advance (6-8 months before listing).

• Take listing photos in summer or fall when the lawn is green.

• Declutter & stage your home to attract top-dollar offers.

Thinking of selling? 📲 Get a FREE home evaluation today!