Why summer is a good time to move…  

School’s officially out for summer!  If you’re like us, you’re probably thinking beaches, holidays, cottages… any activity that will get us out to enjoy the warm weather...but it can also be a perfect time to move!  While there might not be as much real estate activity in July as there is in May, it may surprise you to find out that June, July and August are busy months in Ottawa real estate, especially in recent years.  The weather is fine and there are still a lot of great opportunities to buy and sell.  Stats show that houses (and people) are making moves during the warmer months and many buyers and sellers are motivated to get deals done before the cooler weather returns.

So what are some other reasons why summer is a good time to move?  

Home maintenance / House hunting

If you are buying or selling during the winter, there might be things buried under snow that you can’t see or get access to if snow is a factor.  It’s also nice to be able to open the windows and get fresh air while doing tasks like painting.  Since you’ll be busy packing and preparing,  you might hire a teenager who is looking to make a bit of cash for small jobs like mowing the lawn, weeding, babysitting, etc. Delegating small tasks will pay off big time.

Garage Sales

Do you really want to move that lamp you’ve had in the basement since college again?  The answer is probably not.  Getting rid of stuff you don’t want or need before you start packing will make your move so much easier (and probably cheaper too!).   If you have children, encourage them to go through their books & toys as well, the thought of earning a few dollars is usually a great incen

tive to purge! Bonus: whatever doesn’t sell is already out an organized making it easier to drop off at a local charity donation bin.

Tip* Before picking a date, check to see if there is a neighbourhood garage sale planned in your area.  Community garage sales like the Great Glebe Garage sale have caught on in other areas and tend to draw more “shoppers”.  If that’s not an option you might talk to your neighbours to see if you can get a street sale happening, and don’t forget to ask for Garage Sale Signs from your Royal LePage Realtor!

Weather

This is a pretty obvious one, winters in Ottawa are notoriously cold and snowy.   It’s much easier to move when you’re worrying about icy walkways and 3 feet of snow.  You might find more willing volunteers to help with your move too, especially if there’s a promise of cold beer and pizza!  Having said that, moving in 35 degree heat can also be pretty brutal, make sure you have plenty of cold water on hand and hire professional movers for the larger items. Your back and your friends will be grateful!

Kids & Schools

Changing schools in the middle of the year can be disruptive and unsettling for some children.  If there’s moving to be done, you should try to move before the new school year starts.  If older children are off to college or moving out, this might also be a great opportunity for empty nesters.  The Ottawa area condo market has been booming in the last year, and there are great deals out there for those looking to downsize.

Business is slower

Unless you’re in the construction or tourism industry, most businesses slow down during the summer months, making it easier to book time off of work.  Summer is a good time to move but don't forget to take some time to enjoy the season.

Making a move can be stressful in any season, but being organized and asking for help when you need it will help ensure a successful move.   And when it’s all done you can enjoy a cold beverage and enjoy your new space!