1. Pricing Is Everything — And It's More Art Than Science
In Surrey, two homes on the same street can sell $100K apart based on condition, layout, and timing. Automated valuation tools (like Zestimate) are often wrong by 10–15% in our market. A proper Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) from a local agent who's actually walked comparable homes recently is worth its weight in gold. Price too high and you'll sit. Price right and you'll create competition.2. First Impressions Happen Online
94% of buyers start their search online. Your listing photos are your open house. This means:- Professional photography is non-negotiable (the difference between $800 photos and iPhone photos shows)
- Twilight shots of the exterior perform 32% better on click-through
- Declutter and depersonalize before the photographer arrives — you're selling a lifestyle, not your stuff
3. The Offer Isn't the Finish Line
Accepting an offer is step one. Subjects are step two. I've seen deals fall apart at the subject removal stage because:- Buyer's financing wasn't as solid as it appeared
- Home inspection revealed deferred maintenance the seller wasn't ready to credit
- Strata documents showed an upcoming special levy
4. Timing Matters More Than You Think
The best time to list in Surrey is late February through April. Inventory is low but buyer demand is surging. You get competition before the flood of May/June listings dilutes your advantage. The worst time? December and January (slow) or September when school restarts and attention drops.5. Choose an Agent Who Knows Your Micro-Market
Fleetwood, Cloverdale, Newton, and South Surrey are meaningfully different markets with different buyer profiles, price ranges, and absorption rates. An agent who primarily works in Burnaby may not know that a Cloverdale townhouse near the highway discounts 3–5% versus one tucked inside a quiet complex. Local knowledge converts to dollars in your pocket.*Thinking of selling? Get a free home evaluation to see what your property is worth today.*
AJ
Amanda John
Real Estate Consultant · Oakwyn Realty
Helping buyers and sellers across Vancouver and the Fraser Valley for over a decade. If you have questions about this article, reach out anytime.
