Guy Dupuis | Certified Real Estate Broker AEO
Viewing homes in November and December: your evening-visit kit
07 Nov 2026
Acheter
November and December mean darkness by suppertime, rain, sometimes mud and soon snow. If you're looking for a home, you may be viewing it at dusk. The good news: with a small kit, an evening viewing goes very well. It may sound trivial, but it matters: well prepared, you'll judge the home and its grounds better.
1. The flashlight or headlamp: your best ally
The house is lit inside, but the outside may stay in the dark. A flashlight or headlamp lets you look at the yard, the grounds, the entrance and the steps. It also helps in the basement and in dark corners.
2. The umbrella
It keeps you from walking in soaked and rushing the viewing.
3. The raincoat
To walk the grounds in the rain without cutting the viewing short.
4. Rain boots or shoe covers
They keep you comfortable walking outside and keep you dry. Inside, shoes come off. If you don't like that, bring slippers.
5. The state of the grounds: expect mud
Soggy, somewhat muddy ground is not an obstacle. Plan to walk it anyway: that's where you see how the water flows and how the soil behaves after the rain.
6. The gloves
To keep your fingers warm while holding the flashlight and the umbrella.
7. The smile
The last item in the kit costs nothing. A courteous greeting, a warm hello and a relaxed tone make the viewing pleasant for everyone.
Tip: keep your kit in the car at all times and you'll always be ready!
What I do on my end
I've been touring properties after dark for years... I'll help you get ready for your viewings!
Mini-FAQ
Why a flashlight if the house is lit?
Having your own light source is useful and shows you what the existing lighting misses.
Can I come back to see the grounds in daylight?
Of course. But in some cases you may prefer not to wait. Many buyers hope to beat the competition on speed.
How late can we visit?
There is no fixed rule; it depends on the owners. Personally, I prefer viewings before 8 p.m. on weekdays and before 5 p.m. on weekends.
Can we visit during the holidays?
Yes... For example, between December 25, 2025 and January 3, 2026, 7 single-family homes were reported sold through a broker in Blainville, 9 in Mirabel and 22 across Laval (source: Centris). Interesting fact: the competitors who think viewings stop between Christmas and New Year's Day are not the ones making offers!
To talk about your purchase project
Are you thinking of buying a property soon? Want some information on the real estate market that interests you? Book your free, no-obligation phone conversation. Click below now:
It will be my pleasure to talk with you.
Guy Dupuis,
Certified Real Estate Broker
This article is also available in French: Lire cet article en français
