— We are committed to quality content. A real person from THE DURHAM LIFE wrote this article.

As interest rates trend down and Durham’s real estate market heats up, we’re connecting with a lot of home sellers. If you're planning to list your home in the winter or spring of 2025, here are 10 things you can do to get ready:

1. Choose Your Agent: It’s never too early to hire a REALTOR® and plan your selling strategy together. Get recommendations from friends and family, and check online reviews on Google and Yelp. Select an agent who provides the services you need—many top teams (including The Durham Life) offer home prep coordination and staging as part of their commission. Related: Why it's Important to Work with a Realtor®

2. Set Clear Goals and a Budget: Start with your end goals and plan backward. What’s your ideal move date? What needs to happen between now and then? If moving in June, you might need to list in February or March. Create a budget covering selling costs, buying expenses (if applicable), and ongoing costs.

3. Get Financially Prepared: Discuss mortgage portability and any penalties with your lender. If it’s an investment property, consult your accountant about potential tax implications.

4. Declutter and Pre-Pack: Start decluttering early. Rent storage if needed, and pack non-essential items to create a spacious, appealing look for buyers while easing your moving process.

5. Complete Minor Fixes: Now is the time to handle all those small repairs. Buyers notice unmaintained areas, which can influence their interest and offer price. Get these fixes done while you have time. Related: Preparing to Sell Your Home

6. Consider Updates: Fresh paint and updated lighting can enhance your home, but avoid over-improving. Talk to your REALTOR® before spending big on updates.

7. If Your Property is Tenanted: Familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act.

8. Plan for Kids and Pets: Selling your home can be disruptive. Think about ways to minimize the impact on children and pets, possibly timing your sale with a vacation or arranging pet boarding.

9. Take Fall Photos: Capture your home’s exterior before it’s blanketed in snow to show off its landscaping.

10. Create a Digital Home History: Compile a digital file of all major repairs and improvements, including photos, receipts, and warranties.

If Buying Too…

If you’re planning to buy in 2025, consider the following:

• File Your Income Taxes: Your mortgage approval depends on up-to-date taxes.
• Check Your Credit Report: Review your credit score with Equifax or TransUnion.
• Set Realistic Expectations: Now is a good time to assess pricing trends in your target area.
• Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage: Ask about portability options with your current mortgage.
• Consider Bridge Financing: Bridge financing can cover any timing gap between closings on your current and new homes.

2025 is just around the corner, and there’s plenty you can do now to prepare for a successful winter or spring sale.