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Winter: The best time to buy a home

Nov 14, 2018 | 11:00 PM

Winter is the best time to buy a home! And the reasons are many, according to Prince Albert’s RE/MAX Real Estate Agent, Terry Hoda.

“There’s less competition, because there’s less houses on the market which can be a good thing for a buyer. Sellers are motivated in the winter. They maybe antsy to sell their house so they may be more open for negotiation.”

Hoda adds that with fewer listings on the market, you can receive more personalized attention from your real estate agent. “With less activity during the cold months, your realtor can direct more time and effort into your search.”

Even though Hoda has only been in the real estate business for a few years, his previous 40 years of farming life have given him valuable experience in negotiation skills. As a farmer he bought and sold machinery and land. This experience gave him perspective to see both sides of any deal. “I’ve been through a lot of this myself already. I know what to look for. I was a farmer for years, I don’t stop working until a job is done.” Said Hoda.

Hoda’s property checklist includes a Property Conditions Disclosure Statement (PCDS). “A PCDS should be requested by prospective buyers.” “You shouldn’t underestimate its importance where buyers are informed of any short comings or issues of the property, and also knowing what have the owners done to remedy any problem.” Hoda adds, “It’s also good to know there are 14 different types of home inspections that I can arrange for clients in the area.”

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He shares tried and true methods of selling with people who list their property with him and lends advice on how to improve curb appeal or when to hold off on renovations.

Hoda insists that a property be priced according to the competition. “One method I use to help clients determine a listing price is a market comparison,” he explained. “I’m interested in getting the best price for the seller as it’s often one of their biggest assets. At the same time, I don’t provide any false hopes about house values. A property has to be priced in accordance with an appraisal value. Many home buyers today must use banks to secure mortgages to pay for their home. If a property is overpriced, the deal often falls through because the lending institution doesn’t agree with its value.”

In addition to motivated sellers, Hoda said there are other benefits to buying in the winter. “When you house hunt in the winter, you can see other things, like how the windows and doors keep out the cold, how is the fireplace working – is it letting in cold air? These things are harder to notice in the summer time.” He adds.

Back in June, Hoda launched an ad campaign that still has him smirking. It plays on his name sounding like Yoda. He agreed the slogan is true to his character. It reads, “Terry Hoda…sell your house I will.” Hoda beamed, “Even though it pokes a bit of fun at me…it’s true. That’s my commitment.”

As a home owner you live in that house for 12 months of the year. Experiencing it in wintertime is the best way gauge how it will perform during the harshest of conditions. While the days may be dark, the temperatures frigid, winter can be the perfect time to buy a home.

Terry Hoda can be reached directly – 306-961-4632, email: terryhoda@sasktel.net or visit his website: www.terryhoda.remax.ca  for mortgage information, interactive maps, and listings of properties of homes for sale.