Winter is the best time to plan
By Carrie Dahle
It’s officially a new year, and for many homeowners that little voice in the back of their minds is starting to whisper: “Maybe it’s time to sell …” If you’ve been dreaming of putting your home on the market this spring, here’s some insider advice: The magic happens now, in the winter.
Spring may get all the attention as the prime real estate season, but the secret to standing out when the flowers bloom is using the quieter winter months to get your home market-ready. Think of it like preparing for a big performance — you wouldn’t wing it, right? No way! You’d practice, polish, and perfect. Selling your home is no different.
What’s happening in the market?
Let’s take a quick look at where the market stands based on December’s numbers. In Ashland, we saw a 21.2% jump in active listings compared to the previous year. That means inventory is up from 66 homes to 80. This increase is both a good thing and a call to action for sellers. More homes on the market mean buyers have more options, so making yours stand out is essential.
And here’s the kicker: Median prices in Ashland rose 13.1% over the last year, landing at $549,500. Translation? The market is hot, and buyers are willing to invest in the right property. But competition is real, and preparation is key.
Winter: Your secret weapon
If you’re planning to sell this spring, winter is your golden opportunity to get everything ready without the rush. Here’s how to make the most of it:
1. Declutter like a pro
Let’s be honest — most of us have a closet (or a whole garage) that looks like a scene from a disaster movie. Start there. Buyers need to picture themselves in your home, and that’s hard to do with your old ski gear taking up all the space. A little decluttering now can save you a ton of stress later.
2. Tackle those repairs
You know that leaky faucet you’ve been ignoring? Or the doorknob that only works if you jiggle it, right? Now’s the time to fix them. Winter is perfect for handling those small-but-mighty repairs that make your home feel well-loved and move-in ready. Bonus points if you add energy-efficient upgrades — buyers are eating that up these days.
3. Show your curb some love
Sure, it’s not spring yet. But that doesn’t mean curb appeal takes a back seat. In Ashland, where charm is practically a currency, simple updates like a fresh coat of paint, trimmed hedges or even some winter-friendly potted plants can make a big difference.
4. Stage to wow
Staging might sound fancy, but it’s just about showing off your home’s best features. Rearrange furniture, bring in cozy touches or work with a pro to create a space that feels both welcoming and aspirational. Trust me — staged homes sell faster and for more money.
Here’s the thing: December’s stats showed a countywide increase in active listings, up 12.6% from last year. That means more choices for buyers and more competition for sellers. Homes in nearby Talent and Phoenix saw price jumps of 19.2% and 6.2%, respectively, proving that buyers are looking everywhere, not just in Ashland. And with rural properties and areas like Shady Cove seeing inventory spikes, it’s clear that buyers are exploring all their options.
If you’re planning to list, now’s the time to think about what makes your home stand out. Is it the location? The natural light? The kitchen you just remodeled? Highlight those features and prepare everything now so you’re not scrambling in March.
Selling your home is a big deal, but with a little planning and a lot of love, you can make the process smooth and successful. Winter is the time to shine behind the scenes, so your home is ready to steal the show when spring arrives.
Ashland resident Carrie Dahle is president of the Rogue Valley Association of Realtors and principal broker at John L. Scott, Ashland. Email her at [email protected].
