If you're hoping to secure a strong price in 2026, it helps to know which types of listings consistently offer better value. Certain homes tend to sell below market—not because they’re defective, but because of seller motivation, timing, or the nature of the sale.
Below are the three types of homes buyers should pay the closest attention to this year.
1. Vacant Homes with Sellers Seeking a Quick Closing
Vacant homes remain one of the clearest signals of seller motivation. When a property is empty, the seller is often carrying ongoing costs such as mortgage payments, utilities, taxes, and insurance. Each additional week on the market adds financial pressure.
A request for a 30–45 day closing often strengthens this signal. Sellers who prefer a fast closing are typically aiming for a smooth, timely transaction — and may be more flexible on price.
Why these homes offer value:
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Sellers may be carrying two properties
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Holding expenses add urgency
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Less emotional attachment, more willingness to negotiate
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Often sell for slightly below comparable occupied homes
This combination makes vacant homes one of the most reliable places to find a well-priced opportunity.
2. Listings with Long Days on Market (DOM 120+ Days)
A long DOM doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem with the property. In practice, it usually reflects issues such as:
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Mispricing at launch
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Poor marketing or insufficient exposure
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Listing at a slower time of year
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Overly optimistic seller expectations
What tends to change over time is the seller’s mindset. After several weeks without meaningful activity, sellers often shift from aiming high to simply wanting a committed, qualified buyer.
Why this category creates opportunity:
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More flexibility during negotiation
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Easier conversations around price adjustments
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Stronger likelihood of an offer being accepted
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Often excellent value when the home itself is solid
A long-DOM listing is rarely a red flag — more often, it’s a sign of negotiability.
3. Estate Sales and Power of Sale Properties
These homes can provide some of the best long-term value, especially for buyers comfortable with light repairs or more detailed due diligence. Estate sales are handled by executors or family members, while Power of Sale properties are managed by lenders.
In both cases, pricing tends to be objective and unemotional.
What makes them appealing:
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No sentimental pricing or emotional negotiation
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A focus on completing the transaction efficiently
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Often listed at or below the comparable market value
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Strong potential for appreciation after modest improvements
For buyers looking past surface-level imperfections, these homes can offer excellent upside.
Final Takeaway
Securing a great purchase price in 2026 isn’t about luck — it’s about recognizing where motivated sellers are likely to appear. Vacant homes with quick closing timelines, long-DOM listings, and estate or Power of Sale properties consistently offer some of the best buying conditions.
If you're planning to enter the market this year and want help identifying these opportunities, I’d be happy to walk you through the most promising options and negotiate strategically on your behalf.
Contact The Fisher Group – Your Real Estate Experts in Oakville and the GTA
Fisher Yu
📱 647.598.8488
📧 [email protected]
🌐 thefishergroup.ca
