Joel Ross, PREC. Remax Colonial Pacific Realty

Selling your home during the winter months in Ocean Park, South Surrey, may seem daunting at first. With the cooler weather and holiday distractions, it can be tempting to wait until spring to list your property. However, winter can be an excellent time to sell — with fewer homes on the market and serious buyers ready to make a move.

In this blog post, I’ll share key strategies to sell your home quickly and for top dollar during the winter months. From curb appeal to staging, these tips will help you make the most of the season and attract motivated buyers.

1. Take Advantage of Low Inventory

While many sellers wait for spring to list their homes, winter means less competition. With fewer homes on the market, your property is more likely to stand out and attract serious buyers who are ready to make a decision quickly.

• Fewer listings can work in your favour, especially if your home is well-presented and priced right.

• Buyers shopping during winter tend to be motivated — they may need to move for work, family reasons, or just want to close before the new year.

Pro Tip: Don’t wait for the “spring rush” — get your home on the market and take advantage of less competition.

2. Create Curb Appeal Despite the Weather

Winter weather can make it harder to showcase your home’s outdoor features, but there are simple steps you can take to ensure your home still makes a strong first impression:

• Keep walkways clear of snow and ice. A safe, easy-to-navigate entrance is crucial for both curb appeal and buyer safety.

• Add outdoor lighting to highlight pathways, the front door, and any architectural features of your home. The longer nights make outdoor lighting even more important.

• Winterize your garden by trimming dead branches, adding seasonal plants like evergreens, or placing a decorative wreath on the door.

Pro Tip: A well-lit and clear front entrance gives your home a welcoming vibe — even in the coldest months.

3. Stage Your Home for the Winter Season

Staging your home is always important, but in the winter, you can take advantage of the cozy, welcoming feel that the season naturally provides:

• Warm, inviting décor can make your home feel like a haven. Think soft blankets, plush pillows, and warm lighting.

• Set the mood with seasonal touches like a lit fireplace or fresh, seasonal flowers on the dining table.

• Ensure that rooms feel cozy — use throws and layered fabrics to create a warm atmosphere, especially in living rooms and bedrooms.

Pro Tip: Buyers want to feel comfortable during winter showings. A cozy, well-lit home makes a lasting impression and helps potential buyers feel at ease.

4. Keep Your Home Warm and Comfortable

During winter months, potential buyers will notice the temperature and overall comfort of your home more than usual. Make sure your heating system is working well, and set the thermostat to a comfortable level for showings.

• Avoid turning off the heat during showings. A cold home can feel uninviting, even if it’s only for a short time.

• Ensure that all areas are well-lit, especially if it gets dark early, to make your home feel spacious and bright.

Pro Tip: A warm, comfortable home will encourage buyers to linger longer and consider how cozy it would feel to live there year-round.

5. Focus on Lighting and Brightness

With fewer hours of daylight in winter, lighting becomes even more important in showcasing your home:

• Maximize natural light by opening blinds and curtains during showings to let in as much light as possible.

• Add extra light fixtures in dark corners or rooms without many windows.

• Consider LED bulbs or lighted mirrors for brighter spaces, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.

Pro Tip: Bright, well-lit spaces feel larger and more inviting — buyers will appreciate this in the drearier winter months.

6. Keep Your Home Pristine and Well-Maintained

In winter, wear and tear from weather can be more apparent. To make your home look its best, focus on the small details:

• Fix minor issues such as cracked windows, chipped paint, or loose tiles. Winter buyers want to feel like they’re buying a home that’s move-in ready.

• Shovel snow and ice regularly, especially in high-traffic areas like driveways, walkways, and porches.

• Keep gutters and downspouts clear to avoid water damage or ice buildup.

Pro Tip: A well-maintained, move-in ready home will attract more buyers and help you command a higher price.

7. Price Your Home Competitively

When it comes to selling in the winter, pricing your home correctly is one of the most important factors in attracting buyers:

• Consult with Joel Ross, The Ocean Park Realtor to get an accurate market analysis, considering seasonal trends and recent sales in your neighbourhood.

• While winter may bring fewer buyers, it also brings serious, motivated buyers. Price your home competitively, but don’t undercut its value.

Pro Tip: A strategic pricing strategy can lead to multiple offers, especially if your home is well-staged and well-maintained.

8. Be Flexible with Showings

Winter months can be a bit trickier when it comes to scheduling, as potential buyers may have holiday plans or work-related commitments. To ensure you capture the maximum number of interested buyers:

• Be flexible with showing times, including evenings or weekends. Make it as convenient as possible for buyers to see your home.

• If weather conditions are poor, offer virtual showings or video tours so buyers can still get a feel for your home.

Pro Tip: Maximizing availability for showings increases the likelihood that your home will be seen by serious buyers.

9. Market Your Home to Winter Buyers

Winter buyers are often more focused and motivated than those shopping in the spring or summer months. To capture this attention, your marketing efforts should emphasize what buyers are looking for during the winter:

• Highlight features like a cozy fireplace, energy-efficient windows, or heated floors.

• Emphasize your home’s location, especially if it's close to amenities like transit, schools, or shopping, which can be more appealing when the weather is cold.

• Use social media, email newsletters, and real estate listing sites to target buyers actively looking during the winter.

Pro Tip: Make sure your online listings and marketing materials include high-quality images, focusing on the warmth and comfort of your home during the winter months.

10. Work with an Experienced Local Realtor

Selling your home in the winter can be a bit different from other seasons, so it’s crucial to work with a Realtor who knows how to navigate the winter market.

• A local Realtor will know how to price your home correctly and market it effectively to the right buyers.

• They can also advise on staging for winter and help you identify any necessary repairs or upgrades before listing.

Pro Tip: Partnering with an experienced Realtor will give you the confidence to sell your home quickly, no matter the season.

Ready to Sell Your Ocean Park Home This Winter?

While selling during the winter months presents unique challenges, with the right strategy, you can make the most of the season. Fewer listings, motivated buyers, and a cozy, well-staged home can lead to a successful sale at a great price.

If you’re ready to sell your Ocean Park home, reach out to Joel Ross at 604-808-2001. I can provide expert guidance on pricing, staging, and marketing to ensure your home is seen by the right buyers and sells quickly, even in the winter months.

Joel Ross, Personal Real Estate Corporation

Remax Colonial Pacific Realty

Joel Ross PREC “The Ocean Park Realtor”

Staging your home is one of the most effective ways to showcase its best features and make a lasting impression on potential buyers. Whether you're selling a luxury home in Ocean Park or a cozy family property, proper staging can make all the difference in attracting the right buyer and securing top dollar.

Here’s your ultimate guide on how to stage your Ocean Park home to attract buyers and get it sold faster by Joel Ross, PREC Remax Colonial Pacific Realty.

1. Clean, Declutter, and Depersonalize

Before you even think about furniture placement or décor, start with the basics:

• Clean every room thoroughly — from floors to windows and everything in between.

• Declutter to create open, airy spaces. Remove unnecessary items from countertops, shelves, and tables.

• Depersonalize by taking down family photos and personal memorabilia. Buyers need to envision themselves in the space, and personal items can make it harder for them to do that.

Pro Tip: A clean, clutter-free home helps buyers focus on the space itself rather than distractions.

2. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, so ensure your home’s exterior is as inviting as its interior:

• Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and rake up any fallen leaves.

• Plant colourful flowers in your front yard or along the porch to add life and vibrancy.

• Freshen up your front door with a new coat of paint, clean hardware, and a welcoming mat.

Pro Tip: Buyers decide within seconds whether they want to step inside based on curb appeal, so make sure the exterior sets the right tone.

3. Focus on Key Rooms: Living Room, Kitchen, and Master Bedroom

Certain rooms are deal-breakers for many buyers, so make sure these areas stand out:

• Living Room: Arrange furniture to create an inviting, cozy space. Keep traffic flow in mind, and avoid overcrowding the room with too much furniture.

• Kitchen: Clean countertops, upgrade outdated hardware, and consider adding fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit for a pop of colour.

• Master Bedroom: Make the bed the focal point. Use neutral linens, fluffy pillows, and avoid overstuffing the room with excess furniture.

Pro Tip: Create a welcoming, neutral environment where buyers can imagine themselves relaxing and entertaining.

4. Use Neutral Colours and Lighting

Neutral tones like whites, grays, and beige create a fresh, modern look that appeals to most buyers:

• Paint walls in soft, neutral shades to make rooms feel larger and more inviting.

• Use bright, warm lighting to create an open and airy feel. Swap out old bulbs with bright LEDs for an updated look.

• Consider adding accent lighting with lamps or under-cabinet lighting to highlight key areas like the kitchen or dining room.

Pro Tip: Lighting can dramatically impact the feel of a room — bright, well-lit spaces look more spacious and welcoming.

5. Create Flow and Balance

Ensure there is a natural flow and sense of balance throughout the house:

• Rearrange furniture to create a balanced, harmonious look and allow for easy movement through rooms.

• Avoid blocking windows or doors, as natural light and clear pathways make spaces feel larger and more open.

• In open-concept areas, define zones (e.g., create a separate dining and living area with rugs or furniture placement).

Pro Tip: A home that flows well will feel more spacious and functional, which appeals to families and buyers looking for a livable home.

6. Highlight Outdoor Spaces

In Ocean Park, outdoor living is a big draw. If your home has a patio, garden, or backyard, make sure to show it off:

• Clean patios, decks, or balconies and set up outdoor furniture to create an inviting space for entertaining.

• If you have a garden, plant seasonal flowers or tidy up any existing landscaping.

• Ensure that any outdoor areas are well-lit and staged for cozy evenings or family gatherings.

Pro Tip: Ocean Park buyers are drawn to outdoor spaces, so make your yard an extension of your home.

7. Address Any Repairs or Maintenance Issues

Before you begin staging, take care of any minor repairs that could be a turn-off for buyers:

• Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and chipped paint.

• Consider fixing or replacing outdated light fixtures or hardware that could make the home feel less modern.

• If any major repairs are needed, consider addressing them before listing or pricing accordingly.

Pro Tip: A home that’s in good condition will attract more buyers and help you avoid price reductions later.

8. Add Strategic Décor and Accessories

The right accessories can help your home feel warm, inviting, and stylish:

• Use neutral throw pillows, cozy blankets, and rugs to add texture and comfort.

• Place fresh flowers or houseplants on tables to bring life and color to the space.

• Add mirrors to create the illusion of more space and reflect natural light.

Pro Tip: Keep décor simple and in line with the home’s style — less is more when it comes to accessories.

9. Emphasize Unique Features

Ocean Park homes often have charming architectural features that buyers will love, such as beamed ceilings, fireplaces, or large windows with ocean views.

• Highlight these features with careful staging — make sure they’re visible and draw attention to them.

• If you have upgraded fixtures or appliances, showcase them by highlighting their quality and style.

Pro Tip: Subtle staging that highlights key features can significantly increase a home’s appeal.

10. Work with a Local Realtor for Professional Staging Advice

A local Realtor who understands Ocean Park’s market can offer valuable staging tips specific to your home and area:

• I can help recommend local staging professionals who can elevate your home’s appeal.

• I can advise on which upgrades or changes will have the biggest impact on buyer interest.

• I can market your home to the right buyers, emphasizing Ocean Park’s unique lifestyle and features.

Pro Tip: A professional Realtor can help you create a tailored staging plan that appeals directly to potential buyers in your area.

Ready to Stage Your Ocean Park Home for Success?

Staging your home in Ocean Park doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach, you can create a space that appeals to buyers and helps you sell faster and for top dollar.

As a local Realtor who lives and works in Ocean Park with deep knowledge of Ocean Park real estate, I can provide expert guidance on staging, pricing, and marketing your home to attract the perfect buyer.

Joel Ross, Personal Real Estate Corporation

Remax Colonial Pacific Realty

Vista Pacifica - RARE TOP FLOOR PENTHOUSE CORNER UNIT... this one is not to be missed! Featuring 2 beds and 2 baths
PLUS a SOLARIUM with large updated windows overlooking your private view. Gas fireplace and hardwood floors and a fantastic layout give this home warmth, charm and functionality. Exceptionally bright 1168 sf home featuring 1 rooftop deck and 1 balcony (451sf!) that make it feel like your in your own cozy backyard. Strata fees cover gas and hot water. Building is fully rain-screened and has a proactive and well run strata. One cat or one service dog. Located steps away from gorgeous ocean views, Laura's Coffee, boutique shops, churches, doctor's offices and transportation. Freshly repainted and move-in ready. If you like privacy and quiet, this is the one for you!


Joel Ross, Personal Real Estate Corporation
Remax Colonial Pacific Realty

Joel Ross PREC

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Ocean Park, South Surrey, understanding the current real estate trends is key to maximizing your property’s value and selling quickly. As a local Remax Realtor in Ocean Park for over 10 years, I’ve been closely tracking the market, and here’s a snapshot of what sellers need to know right now.

1. Home Prices in Ocean Park Are Strong but Softening

Ocean Park continues to be a highly desirable neighbourhood in South Surrey. Homes here attract buyers looking for coastal charm, family-friendly streets, and excellent schools.

• Median home prices have softened over the past few years, but well-priced properties still sell quickly.

• Luxury homes and family-sized properties tend to sell faster and often above asking price when presented well. However in the current market, the higher priced homes have been harder hit than the lower priced homes.

Tip for sellers: Pricing your home competitively and highlighting its unique features is critical to attract multiple offers.

2. Inventory is Limited

Like many popular coastal communities, Ocean Park has low inventory, which means fewer homes are on the market over the winter months:

• Buyers often face competition for well-maintained properties.

• Homes in desirable locations, especially near beaches and schools, tend to receive multiple offers quickly.

• While there are not as many buyers in the market in winter, the buyers who are shopping tend to be more serious.

Tip for sellers: A well-timed and well-priced listing can take advantage of the demand for homes in Ocean Park.

3. Buyer Demographics Are Diverse

Current buyers in Ocean Park include:

• Growing families looking for spacious homes near schools and parks.

• Downsizers seeking low-maintenance townhouses or condos.

• Builders interested in long-term growth and rental potential with plans for new construction.

Tip for sellers: Understanding who your potential buyers are can help you stage and market your home effectively.

4. Demand for Move-In Ready Homes is High

Buyers are increasingly looking for homes that are modern, updated, and ready to move into:

• Fresh paint, updated kitchens, and well-maintained landscaping can significantly increase your home’s appeal.

• Homes that are well-staged tend to sell faster and for a higher price.

Tip for sellers: Investing in small renovations and professional staging often pays off in final sale price.

5. The Importance of Local Expertise

Navigating the Ocean Park real estate market requires local knowledge and strategy:

• Correctly pricing your home based on current trends and comparable sales.

• Marketing to the right audience using both online and community-based channels.

• Negotiating offers to maximize your return.

Tip for sellers: Working with an Ocean Park Realtor who understands Ocean Park’s unique market trends is essential for a successful sale.

6. Timing Your Sale Matters

While Ocean Park homes sell well year-round, spring and early summer tend to be peak seasons:

• Longer daylight hours and nicer weather make homes more attractive.

• Buyers are often motivated to settle before the school year or summer holidays.

Tip for sellers: Planning your listing around these peak periods can help increase buyer interest and competition.

Thinking About Selling in Ocean Park?

If you’re considering putting your home on the market, now is a great time to leverage these market trends. From relatively strong buyer demand to limited inventory, Ocean Park continues to be a hot spot for homes that are well-presented and competitively priced.

As a local Realtor, I can help you navigate the market, price your home correctly, and attract serious buyers, ensuring you get the best possible result.  Call Joel Ross at 604-808-2001.

Joel Ross, Personal Real Estate Corporation

Remax Colonial Pacific Realty

Joel Ross PREC

When it comes to selling your home in Ocean Park, South Surrey, you want to ensure that every dollar you invest in upgrades brings a solid return. While it’s tempting to think that major renovations will guarantee a higher selling price, the reality is that not all upgrades provide the same value in the current real estate market.

In this blog post, I’ll break down the top home upgrades that offer the best return on investment (ROI) in Ocean Park and South Surrey, and explain how you can make smart improvements to sell your home faster and maximize your profit.

1. Curb Appeal: First Impressions Matter

The first impression buyers get when they pull up to your home can set the tone for the entire showing. That’s why improving your curb appeal is one of the most cost-effective upgrades to make before listing your home.

What to upgrade:

• Landscaping: Fresh mulch, trimmed hedges, and colorful flowers can instantly brighten up your home’s exterior.

• Exterior Paint: A fresh coat of paint on the front door or trim can create an inviting look without breaking the bank.

• Lighting: Installing stylish outdoor lighting or pathway lights can highlight the beauty of your home’s exterior, especially in the evenings.

Why it pays off:

• Buyers form opinions within seconds of arriving. Good curb appeal can lead to increased buyer interest and potentially higher offers.

Pro Tip: Spend around 1-2% of your home’s value on exterior improvements to ensure you get a solid return.

2. Kitchen Upgrades: The Heart of the Home

The kitchen is often considered the most important room in the house for buyers. While a full remodel can be costly, there are several smaller upgrades that can make a big impact.

What to upgrade:

• Cabinet Hardware: Swapping outdated knobs and handles for modern hardware can refresh the look of your cabinets without spending a lot.

• Countertops: Consider upgrading to quartz or granite for a sleek, modern look. Even a small section, like the island or breakfast bar, can make a difference.

• Appliances: If your appliances are outdated, upgrading to energy-efficient models can be a huge selling point.

Why it pays off:

• Kitchens are high-traffic areas where buyers tend to focus. Upgrading this space can provide one of the highest ROIs. A well-presented kitchen often increases perceived value and speeds up the sale process.

Pro Tip: Minor upgrades, such as new lighting fixtures or a stylish backsplash, can have a major impact without the need for a full renovation.

3. Bathroom Updates: Small Changes, Big Impact

Bathrooms are another area where small updates can offer a high return. Buyers often pay close attention to the condition of bathrooms, so making sure they look fresh and modern can help your home stand out.

What to upgrade:

• Vanity & Fixtures: Replace old faucets and outdated vanities with sleek, modern alternatives. Even simple changes like a new showerhead can make a difference.

• Tiles & Grout: Refresh old or dirty grout and consider replacing worn-out tiles with updated designs.

• Lighting: Update light fixtures to provide bright, modern lighting in your bathrooms.

Why it pays off:

• Bathrooms are essential to buyers, and small updates can give the impression of a more move-in ready home. Clean, fresh spaces are also more appealing to buyers and often result in higher offers.

Pro Tip: Spend around 1-2% of your home’s value on bathroom updates for maximum impact.

4. Flooring: The Foundation of Your Home’s Appeal

Buyers notice the condition of your floors, so investing in new flooring can drastically improve the overall look of your home. If your floors are worn, old, or mismatched, it can deter potential buyers.

What to upgrade:

• Hardwood Floors: If you have hardwood, consider refinishing it for a fresh, updated look.

• Carpet Replacement: If your home has old or stained carpet, replacing it with neutral-toned carpet or laminate can help make the home feel cleaner and more modern.

• Tile: Consider upgrading to larger, neutral tiles for bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways to make the space feel more spacious.

Why it pays off:

• Good flooring gives your home a polished, cohesive look. New flooring can increase the value of your home and help it appeal to a wider range of buyers.

Pro Tip: Choose neutral colors that will appeal to the largest number of buyers. Avoid bold, trendy choices that may not suit all tastes.

5. Fresh Paint: The Most Cost-Effective Upgrade

A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to transform your home. Neutral colors are often the best choice, as they appeal to a broader range of buyers.

What to upgrade:

• Interior Walls: Repainting with neutral tones like whites, grays, or soft taupes can make rooms feel brighter and more spacious.

• Trim and Doors: Freshen up the trim, baseboards, and interior doors to give your home a well-maintained, updated look.

Why it pays off:

• A well-painted home feels cleaner and more modern, and it allows buyers to focus on the space, rather than noticing chipped paint or scuff marks.

Pro Tip: Touch up or repaint high-traffic areas, such as hallways and entryways, to make the home feel fresh and well-maintained.

6. Open Up Your Space with Smart Organization

Buyers are always looking for storage space and open layouts. Organizing your home and creating a sense of space can help buyers imagine themselves living there.

What to upgrade:

• Declutter: Clean out closets, cabinets, and storage areas to show buyers how much space is available.

• Built-In Storage: If possible, add shelves or organizational features that highlight the home’s storage potential.

• Furniture Arrangement: Create an open and inviting flow by rearranging furniture to maximize space.

Why it pays off:

• Storage space is a huge selling point. By showing how much room buyers have to organize and store their belongings, you can make your home feel more spacious and functional.

Pro Tip: Buyers tend to overestimate the size of a home based on how well-organized and open it feels.

7. Energy-Efficiency Upgrades: Appeal to Eco-Conscious Buyers

With rising energy costs, many buyers are seeking homes that offer energy-efficient features. These upgrades not only improve your home’s comfort but can also add significant value.

What to upgrade:

• Insulation: Adding or upgrading insulation can make your home more energy-efficient, especially in attics or basements.

• Windows: Consider replacing old windows with energy-efficient models to reduce heating and cooling costs.

• Smart Thermostats: Installing a smart thermostat can appeal to buyers interested in controlling their home’s temperature remotely.

Why it pays off:

• Energy-efficient homes are increasingly attractive to buyers. Offering lower energy costs and a reduced environmental impact can increase your home’s desirability.

Pro Tip: Small energy-saving improvements, such as LED light bulbs and low-flow faucets, can also add value.

Final Thoughts: Smart Upgrades for Maximum ROI in South Surrey

When selling your home in Ocean Park, South Surrey, focusing on strategic upgrades can significantly increase your property’s appeal to buyers. Whether you’re updating the kitchen, adding fresh paint, or improving curb appeal, focusing on the highest ROI upgrades can help you sell your home faster and for top dollar.

If you’re ready to list your home, I’m here to provide personalized advice on which upgrades will provide the best return on investment and help you navigate the market to achieve the highest sale price.  Call Joel Ross “The Ocean Park Realtor” at 604-808-2001.

Joel Ross, Personal Real Estate Corporation

Remax Colonial Pacific Realty

Joel Ross, PREC

1. Natural Beauty & Outdoor Access

   • The neighbourhood offers ocean views, wooded trails, and parks like Kwomais Point Park.

   • Ocean Park Terrace & Community Orchard is a charming green space maintained by the city, ideal for picnics and community gathering.

   • There’s a “1001 Steps” route from 15A Avenue down to the oceanfront.

2. Small-Town Village Vibe with Modern Amenities

   • There’s a cozy “village centre” (Ocean Park Village) with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, a library, and local services.

   • Despite its peaceful feel, it’s fairly accessible: transit connections, and it's not too far from key routes.

3. Strong Community Engagement

   • The Ocean Park Community Association is active: heritage projects, beautification, events.

   • Annual neighbourhood celebrations like Ocean Park Day and the Alexandra Festival bring people together.

4. Excellent Schools

   • Well-regarded local schools: Crescent Park Elementary, Ocean Cliff Elementary, Laronde (French Immersion), and Elgin High School.

   • Good for families looking for stability, education, and community roots.

5. Heritage & History

   • The Ocean Park Community Hall, built in the 1920s, is a heritage landmark.

6. Modern Housing Options

   • While there are many large and luxury homes, there’s also new development (e.g., Rockford by Cressey) aimed at downsizers and long-term residents who want to stay in the community.

   • Balanced mix: waterfront estates, single-family homes, and townhomes.

7. Lifestyle & Community Feel

   • Quiet, family-friendly neighbourhood.

   • Close-knit community — people really value that “village” feeling.

   • Less rain than some other parts of the Lower Mainland, according to climate data.

Joel Ross, Personal Real Estate Corporation

Remax Colonial Pacific Realty