Let’s be honest — the market has changed. One of the biggest challenges we’re seeing right now is pricing, especially when it comes to setting the right price for today’s conditions. Many home sellers are still thinking back to the wild days of 2021 and early 2022, when homes were selling in days (sometimes hours) and prices were climbing at record speed.

But that market doesn’t exist anymore. Depending on how you look at the numbers, home values are sitting roughly 18–25% below the peak we saw during that frenzy.

What’s Happened Since the Peak

The good news is that the market has largely stabilized since mid-2023. Prices aren’t dropping the way they did right after the peak, and most communities have settled into a more balanced rhythm. The pace is slower, buyers are more thoughtful, and while homes don’t sell overnight anymore, good listings are still moving when priced right.

However, if you purchased a home in the second half of 2021 or in 2022, you might find that selling today means accepting a lower price than what you paid. That’s not easy to hear — and as someone who owns real estate too, I understand how frustrating that feels. None of us want to see values dip below what we paid.

The Cost of Living Somewhere

But here’s the thing: living somewhere always costs money. Whether you’re renting or owning, you’re paying to have a roof over your head. Owning comes with mortgage payments, maintenance, property taxes, and insurance. Renting comes with monthly payments that build no equity at all.

If you bought during the peak, you’ve likely spent the last few years enjoying your home, building memories, and paying down your mortgage — all things that still have real value, even if your sale price isn’t higher today.

Why Time Still Matters

Before the 2020-2022 boom, it was common wisdom that you should plan to own a home for 5–10 years before selling if you wanted to build meaningful equity. That old rule of thumb is making a comeback. The ultra-fast equity gains we saw for a short stretch were never meant to be sustainable.

Real estate remains one of the most reliable long-term wealth builders — but it works best when you give it time.

Moving Forward

So yes, the market today looks different than it did a few years ago. But that’s not all bad. A more balanced market gives both buyers and sellers a fairer shot. It rewards realistic pricing, quality presentation, and good strategy — all things that experienced realtors (like us!) focus on every day.

If you’re thinking about selling and want an honest look at what your home is worth right now, reach out. We’ll walk you through the data, the trends, and what to expect — no sugarcoating, just real advice for today’s market.

Selling your home can be stressful—but when you have pets, it can feel even trickier. At River Realty, we totally get it. Every member of our team has pets we adore, and we know how much they’re part of your family 🐶🐱. That’s why we’ve put together our top tips for selling your home in Paris, Ontario while keeping your furry friends happy—and appealing to buyers.

1. Keep Your Home Clean and Smelling Fresh 🧹✨

Pet hair, dander, and odors can be a deal-breaker for buyers. Regularly vacuum, mop, and clean carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Consider professional carpet cleaning if needed. Natural scents like baking soda or subtle essential oils work best—overpowering air fresheners can turn buyers off.

2. Stage Smart and Minimize Pet Clutter 🛋️🐾

Buyers want to imagine themselves in your home, not focus on your pets’ toys and beds. Remove litter boxes, beds, and pet supplies during showings. If possible, have pets safely in another room or at a friend’s house for the day.

3. Fix Any Pet Damage 🐾🩹

Scratched floors, chewed baseboards, or stained carpets can worry buyers. Touch up paint, fill scratches, and clean or replace damaged flooring. Even small repairs can make your home look well-maintained and move-in ready.

4. Plan Showings Around Your Pets 🐕🚶‍♂️

Some buyers may be hesitant around dogs, cats, or other animals. Schedule showings when your pets can be out for a walk or safely in a separate room. This keeps your home calm and buyer-friendly.

5. Highlight Pet-Friendly Features 🌳🏡

Does your home have a fenced yard? Nearby parks? Built-in pet amenities? Make sure buyers know! Pet-friendly features can actually be a selling point in Paris, Ontario, where many families love having outdoor space for their animals.

6. Be Honest About Pet-Related Wear and Tear 🐾💬

Transparency builds trust. If there’s any pet-related damage, disclose it upfront. Buyers will appreciate your honesty, and it helps avoid surprises during negotiations.

7. Keep Calm and Flexible 😌🐶🐱

Selling with pets requires coordination, but a little planning goes a long way. Keep your home clean, stage thoughtfully, and be mindful of showings. Your home—and your pets—will shine!

At River Realty, we love pets just as much as you do, and we’ve helped countless families in Paris, Ontario sell their homes while keeping their furry friends happy. 🐾❤️Selling your home with pets doesn’t have to be stressful. Follow these tips, and your home will appeal to buyers while your pets stay safe and loved.

Fall in Southern Ontario means changing leaves, cooler evenings, and yes — that one neighbour who goes a little too hard on Halloween decorations (we see you, Steve 🎃).

While it’s one of the most beautiful times of the year, it’s also your reminder to get your home ready before winter hits. Here’s a practical (and totally doable) checklist to help you prep without losing your sanity.

🧹 1. Clean Your Gutters

No one enjoys scooping soggy leaves, but clogged gutters can cause serious water damage once the snow starts to melt. Grab a ladder, clear the debris, and enjoy the free arm workout while you’re at it.

🔥 2. Furnace Tune-Up

A Canadian winter without heat? No thanks. Schedule a furnace inspection now, and have your gas fireplace checked too. You’ll thank yourself when that first cold snap hits.

💨 3. Seal Drafts

Feeling a mysterious chill inside? Not a ghost 👻 — just air leaks around windows and doors. Weather stripping or a bit of caulking now can save big on heating bills later.

🍂 4. Deal with the Leaves (or Don’t)

Rake them, mulch them, or wait for the snow to hide them. Either way, if you do rake, jumping in the pile at least once is mandatory.

🚨 5. Test Smoke & CO Detectors

A quick press of the button could literally save a life. Replace batteries if needed and double-check expiry dates on your CO detectors.

🕯️ 6. Stock Up on Cozy Essentials

Blankets, candles, and soup season are officially back. Add a good book or your favourite series (hello, Gilmore Girls☕) and you’ve got peak fall comfort.

🌳 7. Prep the Yard

Say goodbye to patio furniture before it becomes a permanent ice sculpture. Cover it, stash it, or drag it closer to the house and hope for the best.

⚡ 8. Restock Your Emergency Kit

Snowstorms happen. Power outages happen. Make sure you’ve got batteries, candles, flashlights, and snacks ready to go — bonus points for downloaded shows when the Wi-Fi gives up.

Prepping your home for fall doesn’t have to be a chore — think of it as setting the stage for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, and maybe even a snow day or two.

If you’d like trusted local contacts to help with any of these tasks, reach out anytime — our team’s always happy to connect you with the right people.