“The early-bird gets the worm” is a popular expression. Indeed, there are many examples in life when being early, or even first in line, gives you an advantage.

Real estate is one of them.

When shopping for a new home, being among the first to learn about a new listing benefits you in several ways:

• You have more time to see the property and make a decision.
• You might be able to make an early offer.
• You’re under less pressure to make a decision quickly.

Overall, by finding out about a new listing early, you improve your chances of getting the property.

How do you get the early-bird advantage?

If you scour the internet for new listings, you can still miss opportunities. For example, “Coming soon” listings may not yet be published on the MLS. A better strategy is to arrange to be alerted to new listings and coming-soon opportunities the moment they come up. That way, you’re always the early-bird and your likelihood of finding and buying your next dream home increases.

Saskatchewan reported 1,295 sales across the province in September, a year-over-year gain of 2.5 per cent and 6.3 per cent above long-term, 10-year averages. While year-to-date sales have eased compared to last year, Saskatchewan continues to report sales well above long-term trends.

Supply challenges continued across the province in September, as inventory levels were over 12 per cent lower than levels seen last year and nearly 32 per cent below the 10-year average. As inventories improved in higher-priced properties, much of the inventory decline is once again being driven by homes priced below $400,000, as the more affordable segment of the market remains highly competitive.

“As seen in previous months, significant supply challenges continue to persist across Saskatchewan, specifically in the more affordable segment of our housing continuum,” noted Association CEO, Chris Guérette. “Inventory challenges and higher lending rates are, without question, impacting sales activity across the province, but relative affordability paired with strong economic growth is supporting above-average sales in our market.”

Strong September sales and ongoing supply challenges translated to 4.8 months of supply across the province, the lowest level reported in September since 2009. The provincial benchmark price reached $328,000 in September, up slightly from $327,800 in August and 1.1 per cent above September 2022.

“Provincial prices remain stable as price gains in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, and Yorkton offset price declines in Regina and Swift Current in September,” said Guérette. “Ultimately, real estate is local, and conditions vary across the province. That said, supply challenges in the lower-priced, more affordable segment of our market remain a significant concern provincially.”

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Regional Highlights
Apart from the Northern Region, every region across the province reported year-to-date pullbacks in sales and new listings. Despite the year-to-date decline, sales levels remain above long-term, 10-year trends across most regions, while the Swift Current Region returned to sales levels consistent with the 10-year average.

Price Trends
Consistent with prior months, the benchmark price varied across Saskatchewan communities in September. Humboldt, Meadow Lake, Melfort, Melville, Prince Albert, and Saskatoon are all reporting year-over-year price gains, while Estevan, Moose Jaw, North Battleford, Regina, Swift Current, Weyburn, and Yorkton report year-over-year price declines.

On a year-to-date basis, Regina, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, North Battleford, and Meadow Lake have all reported price declines, ranging from a high of six per cent in North Battleford to under three per cent in Swift Current. Meanwhile, Melville and Humboldt reported year-to-date price gains of nearly five per cent.

City of Regina

The City of Regina reported 305 sales in September, a year-over-year increase of 7.4 per cent and 15 per cent above long-term, 10-year trends.

Strong September sales were met with a decline in new listings, contributing to further inventory declines. With 3.2 months of supply, conditions have not been this tight in the Queen City since 2011.

Despite strong monthly sales and tight market conditions, the City of Regina reported a benchmark price of $308,700 in September, down from $313,100 in August and $319,200 in July.

City of Saskatoon

The City of Saskatoon reported 374 sales in September, a year-over-year increase of 14 per cent and nearly 8 per cent above long-term, 10-year trends.

Saskatoon is reporting year-over-year sales increases for the fifth consecutive month. When paired with decreasing new listings, the Bridge City is reporting 2.6 months of supply, the lowest level seen in September since 2007.

Imagine you’re selling your home and an offer from a buyer comes in. You’re excited. Your home might soon be sold!

What happens next?

Typically, we will review the offer together. There will likely be several things about the offer that need to be carefully considered. The most common are:

• The offer price.
• Evidence the buyer is financially able to purchase the property.
• Conditions on the offer, if any.

If the offer price is far less than you anticipated, there might be an opportunity to counter-offer at a higher price. This is part of the art of negotiation, which is an important step in selling your home successfully.

The buyer’s ability to afford your property is also important. Ideally, you’ll want to see a Pre-Arranged Mortgage Certificate from the buyer’s lender, or some other evidence that there won’t be any financial problems closing the transaction. The amount of the deposit is also key.

Finally, you’ll want to look at conditions. The most popular condition requires that your property pass a home inspection, but there may be others. Obviously, an offer with no conditions is ideal.

Saskatchewan reported a record-high 1,631 sales in August, a year-over-year increase of 11 per cent and nearly 25 per cent above long-term, 10-year averages.

Strong August sales were met with a pullback in new listings, contributing to a decrease in inventory levels for the month. As seen in prior months, the inventory decline was largely driven by homes priced below $400,000, as the more affordable segment of the market remains highly competitive.

“Saskatchewan is once again reporting strong sales despite ongoing inventory challenges, inflationary pressures, and higher lending rates,” said Association CEO, Chris Guérette. “Higher interest rates are pushing more purchasers to seek out more affordable options in the market, and, as a result, we continue to experience significant supply challenges in the lower price ranges of our market. These persistent supply challenges are likely preventing even stronger sales activity in August.”

Record sales and low inventories caused the provincial months of supply to drop below four months – below three months in Regina and below two in Saskatoon – reflecting the tightest market conditions seen heading into September since 2007. Despite tighter market conditions, Saskatchewan’s benchmark price eased slightly in August, primarily due to declines in the more expensive detached and semi-detached markets. Notwithstanding price adjustments following months of steady growth, prices remain comparable to levels reported last year.

“Our province continues to benefit from its affordability advantage, record population growth, and gains in international migration. Unfortunately, when housing supply fails to meet the increased demand, as seen in other jurisdictions across the country, inventory challenges become a real concern, and affordability can be eroded,” said Guérette. “We continue to keep a very close eye on inventory levels, specifically in the more affordable segment of our market.”

Regional Highlights

Year-over-year sales growth was driven by gains in the Regina, Saskatoon, and Yorkton regions, while other regions reported a pullback in year-to-date sales. Many regions experienced a pullback in year-over-year inventory levels, resulting in tighter market conditions across all larger regions of the province. The Saskatoon-Biggar region continues to face the tightest conditions in the province, with just under three months of inventory.

Price Trends

The benchmark price varied across Saskatchewan communities in August. The Regina, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, North Battleford, Estevan, and Weyburn regions are all reporting year-over-year price declines, ranging from 2.5 per cent in North Battleford to a high of over four per cent in Weyburn and Estevan.

While other regions report price easing, recent monthly price gains in Melfort, Prince Albert, and Humboldt resulted in record-high benchmark prices in their cities.

City of Regina

The City of Regina reported 359 sales in August, a year-over-year increase of nearly 6 per cent and 22 per cent above long-term, 10-year trends.

Rising August sales were met with a pullback in new listings, resulting in further inventory declines and the months of supply dropping below three months. Despite tighter market conditions, the benchmark price in the Queen City eased over last month due to pullbacks in the higher-priced detached sector.

Regina reported a benchmark price of $313,100 in August, down from $319,200 in July and $318,700 in June.

City of Saskatoon

The City of Saskatoon reported 528 sales in August, a year-over-year increase of 20 per cent and over 36 per cent above long-term, 10-year trends.

Increased sales and lower inventories caused the months of supply to dip below two months, the tightest levels reported so far this year. Despite extremely tight market conditions, Saskatoon’s benchmark price fell to $378,300 in August, down from $382,400 in July and $381,400 in June.

While monthly variations are not uncommon, it is important to note that prices in the Bridge City remain higher than levels reported last year, and well above the $364,900 reported in January 2023.

When searching for a new home, many buyers will focus only on the list price and what they may need to offer to get the property. For example, a buyer might think, “We can get this house for $XX. That’s within our price range!”

Of course, the selling price plays the pivotal role in whether or not you can afford a particular home. But, carrying costs should also be considered.

Carrying costs include any regular expenses related to the property. The obvious ones are gas, hydro, water, garbage, and taxes. But, there may be others. For example, a home may also have a subscription-based alarm system, high-speed internet, and hot water tank rental.

If there are common elements, such as a private street or some other neighbourhood feature, there may be an annual maintenance fee.

It’s also smart to factor in predicted maintenance and repair costs, especially when buying an older home. A property that hasn’t had its roof shingles replaced in 20 years may be due soon.

So, when you’re shopping for a new home, consider what the carrying costs will be. That will help you make a more informed decision.

That being said, stretching to pay a little more in monthly costs may be worth it, if you love the home and it, (as well as the neighbourhood) has everything you want.

If you’re thinking of selling this fall, this is the ideal time to start the process. The earlier you get ready, the more successful your sale will be. It will likely go a lot smoother, too.

So, with those benefits in mind, here is a quick checklist that will guide you in preparing to list this fall:

• Financials. Find out how much your home will likely sell for in the current market. That calculation is made by looking at what comparable homes in the area have sold for recently.

• Decluttering. The more neat and spacious your home looks to buyers, the more appealing it will be to them. So, be relentless when decluttering.

• Fixing. If anything needs to be repaired or replaced, this is the best time to get that work done. You don’t want to have to scramble to find a contractor later on.

• Staging. Staging is the art and science of setting up a room so that it looks attractive to buyers. Well-staged homes tend to sell faster and for a higher amount. You can stage your home yourself or get professional assistance.

• Scheduling. When you list in the fall, you want to make it as convenient for buyers as possible to book appointments to see your home. So, make sure you have plenty of scheduling flexibility.

• Targeting. Are you also buying a new home? If so, then start the process now. Decide what type of home you’re looking for specifically and narrow your focus to those neighbourhoods you want to get into.

Starting the selling process now gives you a head start when you list this fall. So, begin working through this checklist today.

Saskatchewan reported 1,560 sales in July, a year-over-year increase of 9 per cent and nearly 13 per cent above long-term, 10-year averages. Much of the increase was driven by property priced below $300,000, as the more affordable segment of the market remains highly competitive.

As seen in prior months, inventory levels remain a significant challenge in many areas of the province. Despite a slight increase from last month, inventory levels were 11 per cent below levels seen in the previous year and over 30 per cent below the 10-year average. While inventory challenges continue to impact the more affordable segment of the market, there have been slight inventory gains in properties priced above $300,000.

“Higher lending rates continue to impact both buyers and sellers, with many consumers seeking more affordable options in our market,” said Association CEO, Chris Guérette. “Potential move-up buyers are less likely to list in the current rate environment. When paired with persistent inventory challenges, the more affordable segment of the market remains extremely competitive.”

Despite a modest gain in the months of supply, which reached over four months in July, conditions remain tighter than last year and significantly below long-term trends. Tighter market conditions again resulted in month-over-month price gains, as Saskatchewan’s benchmark price reached $333,100 in July, up from $331,500 in June and $329,600 in May.

“While inventory levels remain a concern for us, Saskatchewan is once again reporting sales levels well above long-term trends,” said Guérette. “Our market continues to benefit from a strong economy and record population growth, which is proving to help offset some of the impact caused by another policy interest rate increase by the Bank of Canada.”

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Regional Highlights

As seen in prior months, year-to-date sales activity has eased across many regions of the province. Despite the year-to-date decline, many regions are reporting sales levels above long-term trends.

Adjustments in inventory levels continue to vary across the province. However, many regions continue to report inventory below long-term, 10-year averages. The Saskatoon-Biggar region is experiencing the tightest conditions in the province, with less than three months of inventory.

Price Trends

The benchmark price varied across Saskatchewan communities in July, with many regions reporting year-over-year and monthly price growth.

The City of Estevan was the only region to report both yearly and monthly price decreases. In contrast, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Yorkton, and Meadow Lake all reported record-high benchmark prices in July.

City of Regina

The City of Regina reported 352 sales in July, a year-over-year decline of less than 1 per cent. Despite the slight year-over-year decline, July sales levels were nearly 17 per cent above long-term, 10-year averages.

A pullback in both sales and new listings prevented any significant change to the inventory challenges being experienced in Regina. Despite a slight month-over-month improvement in the months of supply, market conditions remain tight in the Queen City.

Regina reported a benchmark price of $319,200 in July, up from $318,700 in June and $316,100 in May.

City of Saskatoon

The City of Saskatoon reported 497 sales in July, a year-over-year increase of 11 per cent and nearly 16 per cent above long-term, 10-year averages.

Strong sales levels prevented any significant change in inventory levels in July. Despite a slight increase in the months of supply, conditions remain extremely tight in the City of Saskatoon.

Saskatoon reported a record benchmark price of $384,200, up from $381,400 in June and $380,100 in May.

When a buyer opens a cabinet door in your kitchen, it’s not an invasion of privacy. The buyer simply wants to get a sense of the available space. So, you can expect some buyers to explore cabinet space, especially in your kitchen and bathrooms.

That’s why making sure cabinet space looks clean, organized and spacious is so important. Consider these tips:

• If you store a lot of items inside a cabinet, make liberal use of storage bins, baskets, and small plastic containers. Clutter doesn’t look like clutter when it’s organized!
• Go through each cabinet and get rid of as many items as possible. Pay particular attention to expired products. If you haven’t used an item for a while, question whether you need to keep it anymore.
• Consider storing some items somewhere else in your home. For example, pack up less used items and store them in a larger closet or other storage space.
• Thoroughly clean cabinets that are prone to odours, such as the ones under the kitchen sink or used for storing food.

Buyers will only give a cabinet space a quick glance, yet they’ll form a lasting impression. Make sure it’s a good one!

Shopping for a new home in a distant town, city or neighbourhood can be a challenge. It’s especially difficult if getting there requires a very long drive or flight. So, if you’re thinking of moving out-of-town, here are some home shopping tips to consider:

• Schedule a longer than normal viewing appointment. Make sure the seller is aware that you’ll need more time to see and evaluate the home, so they don’t book another appointment too soon after yours.
• Spend extra time in the neighbourhood and surrounding area. Drive the streets. Go for a walk. If possible, chat with neighbours you run into.
• Get all the facts you can about the home and surrounding area. You’ll want to take a close look at crime statistics, property turnover, demographics, etc.
• Don’t rush your travel plans when going to see a listed home. Try to arrive for the viewing relaxed and energized (rather than stressed and fatigued), so you can see the property in an unhurried manner.

Following these simple tips can bring you a lot closer to finding your faraway dream home.

There were 1,691 sales reported across the province in June, a year-over-year decline of six per cent. While year-over-year sales were down, Saskatchewan again reported sales levels well above long-term, 10-year historical averages.

As seen in prior months, inventory levels remain a significant challenge in certain regions of the province. Despite a slight increase from last month, inventory levels were nine per cent below levels seen in the previous year and over 30 per cent below the 10-year average. Inventory challenges continue to impact the more affordable segment of the market, with homes priced below $300,000 reporting a 17 per cent decline in inventory in June.

“While higher lending rates are impacting sales activity, continued employment growth and Saskatchewan’s relative affordability advantage are preventing a significant pullback in sales,” said Association CEO, Chris Guérette. “Our province continues to report strong sales despite persistent inventory challenges, specifically in the more affordable segment of our housing continuum.”

The slight monthly inventory increase did support a modest gain in the months of supply. However, with just under four months of supply, conditions remain lower than levels traditionally seen in June. Tighter conditions again resulted in month-over-month price gains, as Saskatchewan’s benchmark price reached $331,500 in June, up from $329,600 in May.

“Our market continues to demonstrate resilience amid interest rate hikes, ongoing inflationary pressures, and concerns over a national recession,” said Guérette. “We continue to keep a close eye on inventory levels and how tighter market conditions may impact prices moving forward.”

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Regional Highlights
Sales activity has eased across many regions in the province throughout the first half of the year. However, the Swift Current- Moose Jaw Region was the only region to see activity fall below long-term trends.

While adjustments in inventory levels did vary across the province, all regions continue to report inventory below long-term, 10-year trends. Year-over-year inventory levels have improved in the Swift Current-Moose Jaw and Yorkton-Melville regions, while the Saskatoon-Biggar region is currently reporting the tightest conditions in the province

Price Trends
The benchmark price varied across Saskatchewan communities in June. As most cities report year-over-year and monthly price growth, the cities of Swift Current, North Battleford, and Yorkton experienced monthly and yearly price decreases. Additionally, the Humboldt region reported its highest benchmark price on record in June

City of Regina

The City of Regina reported 367 sales in June, a year-over-year decline of nearly 10 per cent. While year-over-year sales levels eased, they remain over 11 per cent above long-term, 10-year trends.

A pullback in sales and new listings resulted in inventory similar to levels reported last month. Inventory levels in Regina remain nearly 30 per cent below long-term trends, the lowest levels reported in June since 2014.

With only 2.8 months of supply in the Queen City, current conditions are the tightest they’ve been in June over the past decade. Tighter conditions are contributing to monthly price gains as the benchmark price in Regina reached $318,700 in June, up from $316,100 in May.

City of Saskatoon

The City of Saskatoon reported 541 sales in June, up nearly two per cent year-over-year and 17 per cent above long-term trends.

Despite a slight month-over-month improvement in new listings in June, inventory levels remain over 40 per cent below the 10-year average.

Tight market conditions persisted in June, with under two months of supply supporting further price growth in the Bridge City. The benchmark price reached $381,400 in June, up from $380,100 in May.

Purchasing a home is not the same as buying a product off the shelf. You don’t simply pay the price on the tag and know it’s yours. You can’t just see a home for sale and say, “I’ll take it!”, especially if the market is competitive. You need to make an enticing offer.

That offer, of course, would include the price you propose to pay. That price may or may not be the “price tag” or the asking price. In order for your offer to be successful, it needs other ingredients too. For example, winning offers often include evidence that appropriate financing has been arranged. This gives the seller confidence that you can afford the home and that the deal won’t fall through due to an issue with the mortgage.

Also, you may need to put conditions on your offer, such as making it conditional on selling your current home. You’ll need to be careful here. Adding a condition or two may be necessary to protect your best interests, but may also dissuade the seller from accepting your offer.

Negotiation is perhaps the most important part of the buying process. Even if there are no competing offers, there will likely be back-and-forth discussions about price, conditions, closing dates, and more. Savvy negotiating is critical, not only to ensure you get the home, but also that you get it for the lowest price and best terms possible.

Real estate negotiation is not for the timid. It requires in-depth knowledge of the local market, hard-won negotiating skills, and experience. If you’re selling your home, buying a new home, or both, keep in mind the important role that negotiation has in getting you what you want.