Is it better to be a buyer or a seller right now?

This week we’re diving into the buyer perspective and next week we’ll tackle sellers.

If someone you know comes to mind, hit forward! I always have time for your referrals.

On most days this week across Belleville and Quinte West, we saw more price decreases than new listings. That means inventory is tightening, but there’s still opportunity, especially for buyers.

As we move toward spring, more people will start house-hunting again. When that happens, the market will likely balance out (equal number of buyers and listings) or even start to lean toward sellers.

But right now? It’s a market that still favours the buyer.

If you are…

– a first-time buyer waiting for the “right time”

– someone ready to downsize before winter hits

– sitting on strong equity and hoping to trade up into your next home

… this is your window.

You’ve got negotiating power, less competition and time to make decisions without the pressure of multiple offers (although we are still seeing these!)

Many buyers assume spring is the “safer” time to act but waiting can mean facing more buyers, higher prices and fewer options.

Next week, I’ll share more about exactly who is selling right now and why, for some people, it actually makes perfect sense.

(Think: new job relocations, growing families, or realizing you don’t want to shovel another winter’s worth of snow.)

For now, if buying has been on your radar, this might be the calm before the rush you’ve been waiting for.

Ready when you are,

Sarah Fothergill

Sales Representative

Century 21 Lanthorn Real Estate Ltd. Brokerage

Direct: 613 315 9365 

Let’s Connect: @fothergill.realestate

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Originally sent to Mind the Market subscribers on October 16, 2025.