If you’ve looked at the real estate news with even casual interest, you know that the housing market in many Ontario cities is becoming even more unpredictable as time goes on. Take a look at Toronto, for example. Unprecedented demand has led to many houses being scooped up the minute they hit the market while others inexplicably take a long time to sell. To top it all off, the average price for a detached home has reached nearly $2 million. That is not for a sprawling mansion, either; just a regular home and sometimes even a small bungalow. 

What does this have to do with the Hamilton and Burlington areas? The fallout from the GTA has had a domino effect in many other cities in Southern Ontario. As housing prices soar in Toronto, our market is heating up as well.

Houses Sell in Hamilton-Burlington Are in High Demand

Both Burlington and Hamilton are booming, and it’s not just because people want to relocate here to escape the high prices of the GTA! The word is out about our spectacular nature trails and waterfalls, as well as an exciting lifestyle afforded by many unique shops and countless dining options. Now with the recent addition of the West Harbour Go Station, getting around is easier than ever for those who commute.

All of this adds up to a housing market that is hot, hot, hot! Although properties here are far more affordable than in Toronto, our real estate values are also on the rise. The last report from Zolo shows the average price of a detached home in Hamilton has reached $855,780 as of July 2023. In Burlington, the average price reached $1,187,941, which is still less than in Toronto. Rising interest rates and other factors can temporarily affect the local market, but the demand is insatiable overall and still growing.

Still wondering what it’s like to sell in today’s market? The posts below will provide even more insight:

• The Ultimate Formula For A Successful Sale
• Buyer’s Market, Seller’s Market Or Balanced Market?: What They Mean, And Where We Are Now
• What Season Should You Sell Your Home In Hamilton Or Burlington?

What Does a Hectic Market Mean When Selling?

If you list your home, you are in an excellent position! With an effective pricing strategy and great presentation, it’s often no longer a matter of “if” your house sells. It’s a matter of how quickly and how much it sells for. For most homeowners, a fast sale means less stress and effort in keeping your home ready for buyers who want to visit at the last minute. It also usually means your house sells for more money because of the early interest and demand. And if your goal is to buy a new home after yours closes, selling for top dollar can help you succeed in a tight market. And this is where the power of staging comes in.

A realistic home evaluation is a great way to determine an effective listing price. Book yours for free right here.

What Is Staging?

You may think that staging is synonymous with home design. You’re not far off, but the difference is in who we are trying to impress. If you hire an interior designer to decorate your home for you to live in, it’s to suit your taste and to make your house feel like home to you. 

But the goal of staging isn’t to make you fall in love with your space. Instead, it’s to impress your buyer. A stager comes in and removes every personal trace so that potential buyers walk in and immediately see the house as theirs. Staging done well is beautiful, warm, and inviting but impersonal at the same time, much like what you would see on the cover of a magazine. In a slow market with few buyers, staging can help you sell your home. What about the current market where buyers are frantically competing with each other?

Is Staging Necessary in a Seller’s Market?

In a word, no. In a fast-moving market like this one, you can likely sell your house without staging. However, multiple studies have shown that it can help to sell faster and earn more even in a bustling market. It’s a great way to make your home stand head and shoulders above similar listings in your neighbourhood. When your next steps depend on maximizing your results , staging can be an invaluable tool.

Depending on your home and your neighbourhood, your real estate agent may recommend bringing in a professional stager to give you every possible advantage. However, if your home is in pristine condition and already beautifully designed, a few minor changes might do the trick!

Secrets of Staging Like a Pro

Having a professional stager come in and redesign your home from top to bottom may require an investment, but it also takes a lot of the work off of your plate. You can sit back and relax as they work their magic. However, if you have a passion and a flair for design, you may prefer to take on this project for yourself. The following tips will help you create an effect that makes potential buyers stand up and take notice.

• Start by cleaning and decluttering your home, paying particular attention to the main rooms like the kitchen, bathroom, living and bedroom areas. A clean room doesn’t just sparkle and shine, but can appear brighter and even more spacious! Even if you do nothing else, a simple deep clean can add perceived value to your home.
• Enhance natural light by moving larger furniture and decor pieces away from the windows. Strategically placed mirrors and lamps can help to brighten dark corners and areas that typically get the least light.
• Remove every unnecessary piece of furniture, especially big and bulky items. Think of it this way–the more stuff you have in a room, the smaller it appears. A minimalistic design can add real, tangible value by making your home seem more spacious.
• Eliminate all personal items. Now is not the time to display your vacation photos, children’s drawings, or trophies. Depersonalizing may sound cold, but it helps your buyer imagine themselves in the space.

Want to know more about how we help sellers? Discover our strategic selling services right here.

The Key to Success in Any Market

Whether you opt for professional staging or the do-it-yourself approach, it’s important to focus on what matters most when selling your house. Keep in mind that the better your home appears, the more appealing it will be to multiple buyers. And generating maximum interest is the key to earning the highest possible amount from your sale. 

Occasionally, a major overhaul may be necessary to get the best results. However, a few minor touches can make all the difference in most cases. Whatever you decide, an Associate from our team can provide the resources and connections to make your sale as stress-free and successful no matter what happens in the market.

Are you thinking of listing your Hamilton-Burlington home for sale? Whether you’re ready to act or just have a few questions, we are here for you! Reach out by emailing hello@theoreillygroup.ca or call 905-512-5323 to connect with us today.

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