Guy Dupuis | Certified Real Estate Broker AEO
Selling in November and December: 5 tips and 4 answers to common questions
07 Nov 2026
Vendre
The clocks have changed, darkness comes early and snow could arrive sooner than you'd like. Your home may already be on the market, or you may be thinking of listing it this fall. Here are five tips that take the season into account.
1. Light up the outside: viewings happen at dusk
You're selling on Eastern Standard Time... light up the outside, since many visitors will come by at dusk. Tell yourself that their first impression will form in the driveway, before they even step inside.
- Replace burnt-out bulbs at the front door.
- Light the steps and the walkway: a step you can't see becomes a hazard.
- Add solar or battery-powered lights in the yard and at the parking area.
- Make sure the yard is well lit... it would be a shame if someone hesitated to make an offer because they would rather come back to see the yard with more light.
2. Clear the way: snow, ice, leaves
The first look will land on your property from the car. So rake up the last leaves. If it has snowed, keep the parking area, the path and the steps cleared of snow and ice. A visitor who hesitates to walk to the door starts the viewing on the wrong foot.
3. Take care of the indoor entrance
In the cold season, visitors arrive in boots and coats. Provide a mat and a place to leave boots, and leave room to take things off. A clear entrance sets the tone for the whole viewing.
4. Heat and light the home before the viewing
A comfortable home is viewed for longer. Set the heat to a pleasant temperature before the scheduled time, make sure to turn on the heated floors, turn on all the lights and open the curtains while there is still daylight. At night, a room depends on its bulbs: check that they all work and are the same shade.
5. Keep holiday decorations understated
A few welcoming decorations are fine. An overloaded home hides its rooms. Put away personal items cluttering the surfaces, and keep the passages clear. Also remember to stay available for viewings during the holidays. Year after year... sales happen during this period, when couples take advantage of their time off to visit properties!
What I do on my end
I will give you personalized suggestions case by case, taking your situation into account. I've been touring properties after dark for years... I'll help you get ready for the viewings!
Mini-FAQ
Are November and December good times to sell my home?
Sales happen at any time. For example, in November and December 2025, 92 single-family homes were reported sold through a broker in Blainville, 68 in Mirabel and 350 across Laval (source: Centris). What can be projected for your home, in your neighborhood, is exactly what we can discuss together in 15 minutes, if you get in touch with me.
Should I buy new lights?
Not necessarily. Start with the burnt-out bulbs and the places where people walk. The rest is a bonus.
Are photos of my listing taken in another season a problem?
They have the advantage of showing your exterior before the snow and before the leaves fall. If needed, once the snow is here, new exterior photos can be taken.
Do these tips affect the price?
They can influence the visitor's "wow" effect, so their decision whether or not to make an offer, and the price they decide to offer.
Thinking of selling soon?
Where do you start preparing your property? Need some information on the real estate market in your neighborhood? Book your free, no-obligation phone conversation. 15 minutes is enough. 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
