Yesterday's 25-basis point cut brings us to 2.50% – the lowest we've seen since the pandemic began.

Q: Should I jump into the market now or wait for rates to drop further?

A: Here's the reality – nobody rings a bell at the market bottom. While you're waiting for the "perfect" moment, home prices could climb or rates could reverse course. My advice? If you're financially ready, get moving.

Even better: secure a rate hold today. You'll lock in current rates for 90+ days with zero cost or commitment, giving you time to shop while staying protected against any surprises from the final two rate announcements this year.

Q: Are we looking at more cuts before 2025 ends?

A: The crystal ball is cloudy, but here's what we're watching: upcoming job numbers, inflation data, and GDP figures will tell the story. Another 25-point drop is possible, but don't expect rates below 2.25% – that would signal serious economic trouble.

The wild card? Trade tensions with the US could shake everything up, potentially keeping rates higher than the data alone would suggest.

Q: Will cheaper money actually revive our housing market?

A: Lower rates should encourage builders to dust off shelved projects and bring buyers off the sidelines – we haven't seen a rate drop since spring, so there's pent-up demand building.

But here's the catch: trade uncertainty might outweigh the rate benefits. Developers and buyers alike are watching Washington as much as they're watching Ottawa right now.

The bottom line: If you've been waiting for your moment, this rate environment creates genuine opportunity. The question isn't whether rates will go lower – it's whether you'll be ready to act when your perfect property appears.

🏠 Ready to Make Your Move? Don't Navigate This Market Alone.

Rate drops like this create small windows of opportunity that close fast. While everyone else is still reading the headlines, smart buyers and sellers are already positioning themselves.

I'm currently helping clients:

• Sellers: Capitalize on renewed buyer activity before inventory floods back
• Buyers: Secure properties before competition heats up again
• Investors: Identify cash-flowing opportunities in emerging markets
• Refinancers: Lock in savings that could mean thousands annually
• If you're thinking about buying, selling, or investing – even if it's just a "maybe" – let's have that conversation now. I'll show you exactly what this rate environment means for your specific situation and timeline.
  Text me at 416-568-5548 or email [email protected]
• No pressure, just straight answers about your real estate options.
  Because in a shifting market, information is everything – and timing is everything else. 
• 
  
  Ria Bharti
• Broker 
• Re/Max Gold Realty Inc. Brokerage 

Rate Environment The BoC holding at 2.75% with prime at 4.95% suggests cautious optimism. The slight decrease in 5-year fixed rates (down 0.10%) and easing bond yields to 2.9% indicate some market relief, though movements are modest.

Inflation Concerns Core inflation at 3% - right at the top of the BoC's 1-3% target range - is the critical factor here. This likely explains the pause and could indeed delay further cuts if it doesn't moderate.

Employment Picture The 6.9% unemployment rate staying flat despite 40,000  job losses suggests the labor market is stabilizing but not strengthening. This mixed signal probably supports the BoC's cautious approach.

Looking Ahead The September 17 decision will be crucial. If inflation trends down and employment stabilizes, we could see another cut. The mention of potential fall rate drops aligns with this timeline.

 The "neutral rate" concept is key here - theoretically, 2.75% should neither stimulate nor restrict economic growth, but real-world conditions are more complex.

The Competing Forces:

Inflationary Pressures:

• Tariff winds creating upward price pressure
• This would typically argue against further rate cuts
• BoC needs to maintain credibility on inflation control

Economic Weakness Signals:

• The job losses 
• If economic data continues weakening, it could override inflation concerns
• The BoC may prioritize preventing recession over perfect inflation targeting

The Trump Factor: Higher U.S. tariffs could create a double-edged sword:

• Direct inflationary impact on goods
• But potential economic slowdown that necessitates stimulus
• Currency implications if Fed and BoC diverge on policy

What This Means for Real Estate:

• Uncertainty Premium: Clients may delay major decisions waiting for clearer direction
• Rate Volatility: Even small moves could have outsized psychological impact
• Regional Variations: Tariff impacts may affect different markets differently

• Market Opportunity Analysis:

  For Buyers:

  • 
    
  • The combination of lower rates AND cooling prices is rare - usually it's one or the other
  • 
    
  • Higher inventory means more choice and negotiating power
  • 
    
  • Less competition from other buyers creates leverage
  • 
    
  • Well-qualified buyers can capitalize while others hesitate
  • 
    
  • For Sellers:
  
  
  • 
    
  • Those listing now face less competition from other sellers as many wait
  • 
    
  • Motivated, financially qualified buyers are still active
  • 
    
  • Properties priced correctly for current conditions can move
  • 
    
  • The "patience wearing thin" factor suggests pent-up supply has hit the market
  • 
    
  • The Strategic Play: This environment rewards decisive action over waiting. Buyers with pre-approvals and down payments ready can negotiate better terms. Sellers who price realistically rather than chase 2022 peak values can still achieve solid results.
  
  

The market rewards those who act with knowledge and confidence. If you're planning to sell or buy, let my 18 years of proven results guide your decision. 

Contact Ria Bharti at RE/MAX Gold - where experience meets opportunity.

Broker

416-568-5548

[email protected] 

The Ontario housing market continues to navigate through a period of adjustment, with June 2025 data revealing significant trends that both buyers and sellers need to understand. After months of uncertainty, the market is showing clear signals about where we're headed.

The Big Picture: Ontario's Market Reality

Ontario's housing market is sending mixed signals, but the overall trend is clear. With an average home price of $852,036 in June 2025, we're seeing a notable cooling from previous highs. This represents a 1.1% decline from May and a more substantial 3.7% year-over-year decrease.

But here's what's really interesting: despite lower prices, we're not seeing a collapse in activity. Sales transactions reached 16,961 in June, showing a modest 1.1% increase from the previous year, even though they dipped 1.7% from May. This suggests that buyers are starting to re-enter the market as affordability improves.

The Buyer's Market Advantage

One of the most significant developments is Ontario's Sales-to-New-Listings Ratio (SNLR) of 38%, up from 34% in May. This firmly places Ontario in buyer's market territory, giving purchasers more negotiating power than they've had in years.

What does this mean for you?

• For Buyers: More inventory to choose from, less competition, and stronger negotiating position
• For Sellers: Need to be more strategic with pricing and presentation to stand out
• For Investors: Potential opportunities as prices stabilize at more reasonable levels

GTA: The Heart of Ontario's Market

The Greater Toronto Area, as Ontario's economic engine, tells an even more compelling story. The average home sold price was $1,101,691 in June 2025, reflecting:

• 5.2% year-over-year decrease
• 1.7% month-over-month decline
• Benchmark price down 5.5% annually to $995,100

Despite these price adjustments, the GTA saw 6,243 transactions in June, representing a 0.5% year-over-year increase. The region's SNLR of 32% indicates an even stronger buyer's market than the provincial average.

What These Numbers Really Mean

The Correction is Working

Ontario's market is undergoing a healthy correction. After years of unsustainable price growth, we're seeing a return to more balanced conditions. The 6.9% annual benchmark price decline might sound alarming, but it's bringing homes within reach of more families.

Activity Levels Remain Steady

The fact that sales are holding relatively steady, even increasing slightly year-over-year, suggests that the market hasn't frozen. Buyers are active, but they're being more selective and strategic.

Regional Variations Matter

While Ontario leads provincial declines, it's important to note that neighboring British Columbia is down only 2.3% year-over-year. This suggests Ontario's correction may be more advanced, potentially positioning it for earlier recovery.

Looking Forward: What to Expect

For the Next Few Months

• Continued buyer's market conditions
• Selective buyer behavior driving quality expectations higher
• Potential for further modest price adjustments
• Increased importance of proper pricing and staging for sellers

Key Factors to Watch

1. Interest Rate Changes: Any Bank of Canada policy shifts will significantly impact market dynamics
2. Economic Indicators: Employment levels and consumer confidence will drive buyer sentiment
3. Inventory Levels: New listings trends will determine how long buyer advantages persist
4. Seasonal Patterns: Fall market activity will indicate whether current trends are sustainable

Practical Advice for Market Participants

If You're Buying

• Take advantage of increased selection and negotiating power
• Focus on value and long-term potential rather than trying to time the bottom
• Get pre-approved to move quickly on the right property

If You're Selling

• Price strategically based on recent comparable sales, not peak market values
• Invest in presentation – buyers have choices and higher expectations
• Be prepared for longer marketing times
• Consider timing – some seasonal improvement may occur in fall

If You're Investing

• Look for opportunities in markets with strong fundamentals
• Focus on cash flow positive properties
• Consider areas showing early signs of stabilization
• Maintain conservative leverage ratios

The Bottom Line

Ontario's real estate market is in a healthy adjustment phase. While prices are declining, the market remains active with buyers and sellers finding common ground at more sustainable levels. The current buyer's market conditions are creating opportunities that we haven't seen in years.

Rather than viewing these trends as negative, consider them as the market's natural response to previous excesses. For those with solid finances and clear objectives, the current environment offers genuine opportunities to make strategic real estate decisions.

The key is staying informed, being realistic about current conditions, and making decisions based on long-term value rather than short-term market timing. Ontario's real estate market has always been cyclical, and understanding where we are in that cycle is crucial for success.

The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) has released its January 2025 market statistics, offering valuable insights into the shifting landscape of GTA real estate. As we move forward, addressing housing supply and affordability remains crucial to fostering a balanced and sustainable housing market.

GTA REALTORS® reported 3,847 home sales through TRREB’s MLS® System in January 2025, marking a 7.9% decline compared to January 2024. However, new listings surged to 12,392, representing a 48.6% year-over-year increase, providing buyers with more options in the market.

Despite the dip in sales, the MLS® Home Price Index Composite benchmark saw a 0.44% annual increase, and the average selling price rose to $1,040,994, reflecting a 1.5% growth from the same period last year. Seasonally adjusted figures indicate a month-over-month increase in sales compared to December 2024, suggesting gradual market stabilization.

Housing Supply and Affordability Challenges

TRREB President Elechia Barry-Sproule emphasized the importance of prioritizing housing diversity and supply to ensure accessibility for individuals and families across the GTA. Expanding missing-middle housing, including townhomes, duplexes, and low-rise multi-unit buildings, is vital to providing more attainable homeownership options. Additionally, purpose-built rentals remain a key component in addressing rental market affordability.

Barriers to Development & Policy Considerations

TRREB CEO John DiMichele highlighted that traffic congestion and affordability are interconnected challenges that require integrated solutions. He pointed out that high development charges, taxes, and administrative hurdles continue to hinder progress in expanding housing supply, exacerbating affordability concerns across the region.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

• Buyers: Increased inventory means more choices, but prices remain steady. If interest rates decrease, competition could rise in the coming months.

• Sellers: While sales volumes are slightly down, home values are holding, making it a reasonable time to sell if priced competitively.

• Investors: Purpose-built rental developments and missing-middle housing projects could present long-term opportunities amid ongoing demand.

Looking Ahead: A Call for Collaboration

As we navigate 2025, collaboration between policymakers, developers, and real estate professionals will be essential in addressing Toronto’s housing challenges. Integrated approaches to development, taxation, and affordability will help shape a market that meets the needs of a growing population.

Thinking of buying or selling in the GTA? Stay informed with the latest market trends and expert insights. Connect with Ria Bharti 

416-568-5548

www.riabharti.com

In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration has announced a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, effective February 1, 2025. This major tax on goods is causing concern across various sectors, but what does it mean specifically for the Canadian real estate market? Whether you're in East Toronto or looking at broader housing trends, both buyers and sellers in Canada could face major challenges. Here’s what you need to know about the new tariff and its effects.

Economic Strain from Reduced Trade

As tariffs increase, trade slows down, leading to economic strain. So, how does this impact the Canadian real estate market?

The 25% tariff on exports to the U.S. could result in:

• Job losses in various industries.
• Reduced consumer spending.
• Lower affordability for homebuyers in Canada.

What the Tariff Means for Canadian Real Estate

As budgets tighten, fewer Canadians may be able to afford homes, leading to:

• A reduction in overall demand for homes.
• Fewer home sales, which may discourage new construction.
• A slowdown in new builds could lead to even fewer housing options.

This combination of factors could push home prices higher, especially in high-demand areas like East Toronto.

Rising Costs for Builders

The tariff’s impact extends beyond exports. If Canada retaliates with tariffs on U.S. imports, construction costs for materials like lumber and steel will rise, making it more expensive to build homes.

How this affects housing:

• Builders will likely pass on increased costs to buyers.
• Affordable housing projects could face delays or cancellations.
• Construction labor shortages may worsen.

For buyers, this could mean higher prices, fewer options, and greater difficulty in finding an affordable home.

Foreign Investment May Increase

As the Canadian dollar weakens, international investors may see Canadian properties as an attractive investment opportunity. This could add more challenges for local buyers and sellers, especially in popular markets.

Key points to watch:

• If the foreign buyer ban (set to lift in 2027) is lifted earlier, international buyers may flood the market.
• Canadian buyers will face more competition, pushing up prices, particularly in sought-after areas like East Toronto.
• Large investors may snap up properties for long-term profits, leaving fewer opportunities for individual buyers.

What Can Canadian Buyers and Sellers Do?

While the 25% tariff adds uncertainty to the real estate market, there are ways to navigate the changing landscape.

Tips for Buyers:

• Act quickly: Buy before the full effect of the tariff kicks in to potentially save money.
• Work with experts: A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you navigate a more challenging market.
• Look beyond the usual spots: Exploring emerging neighborhoods could provide more affordable options.

Tips for Sellers:

• Price wisely: In a financially strained market, setting the right price will attract more interest.
• Stage your home: Present your property in the best light to stand out in a competitive market.
• Collaborate with professionals: A skilled team can help you maximize your home’s value.

Final Thoughts

Trump’s 25% tariff could lead to higher costs, fewer housing options, and increased foreign competition in Canada’s real estate market. While it may make buying and selling more difficult, with the right strategies, you can still make informed decisions and meet your real estate goals.

Need help navigating these changes? Contact our team today for expert advice and strategies to make the best moves in this evolving market.

Ria Bharti 

416-568-5548

[email protected]

HOME PRICES DIP

🏡 The average home price in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) dipped to $1,067,186 in 2024, marking a -1.6% decline compared to 2023. Price declines were also seen month-over-month, with a -3.5% drop from November to December 2024. Buyers, especially in the condo market, are benefiting from substantial negotiating power, although Toronto townhouses faced the sharpest price decline, down -18.2% on average in December. For savvy buyers, the start of winter offered an excellent opportunity to secure amazing deals across the GTA.

HIGH INVENTORY LEVELS REMAIN

📉 High inventory levels persist across the GTA, with 15,393 active listings—marking a substantial 48.5% year-over-year increase. This surge in available properties, paired with historically low sales volumes, has contributed to a decline in average home prices in 2024, creating an exceptionally favourable market for buyers.

  SALES VOLUMES

📊 December 2024 saw just 3,359 sales across the GTA. While this reflects a modest -1.8% decrease compared to December 2023, it marked the lowest sales level this year. The market remains significantly below the typical 5,000-6,000 sales in a balanced market. Many sellers are experiencing substantially longer days on the market before receiving offers, highlighting a notable shift in buyer behaviour. For savvy buyers, this slowdown presents a prime opportunity to purchase in today's market conditions—where strategic moves can make all the difference.

 Market Outlook

With 2024 behind us, we’re stepping into the new year with optimism and opportunity in the real estate market.

Signs of economic stability are already emerging, with inflation settling at 1.9% in November—a level many economists consider ideal. This sets the stage for potential interest rate cuts, with the next Bank of Canada announcement on January 29th. Lower borrowing costs would not only ease affordability but also bolster consumer confidence in the housing market.

Industry experts and media alike are anticipating a busy spring market, fueled by pent-up buyer demand and indicators point to stronger sales volumes and increased property prices later in the first half of the year. For savvy buyers, the current market presents a prime opportunity to make their move before competition intensifies. Meanwhile, sellers who are planning to list their property may benefit from waiting until spring, when anticipated rate cuts by the Bank of Canada are likely to create conditions that favour stronger offers.

Whether you’re planning to buy or sell, navigating these market shifts requires expertise and strategy.

Selling a home can feel like a whirlwind, especially with the current market dynamics. But with the right approach and a few expert strategies, you can increase your chances of selling faster and at a better price. Here are five key tips to help you make your home stand out to buyers:

1. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter! From fresh landscaping to a freshly painted front door, simple touches on the exterior can make a huge difference. Try adding colorful plants, power-washing the driveway, or updating light fixtures to create an inviting atmosphere.

2. Stage Your Home Like a Pro

Staging allows buyers to envision themselves in the space. Focus on decluttering, rearranging furniture for flow, and using neutral colors to appeal to a broader audience. Don’t forget to style each room with small details like fresh flowers or cozy throws.

3. Price It Right from the Start

Pricing is one of the most important factors in attracting buyers. Do your research or work with a real estate professional to ensure your home is competitively priced. Remember, an overpriced home can sit on the market, which may deter future buyers.

4. Maximize Your Online Presence

In today’s digital world, most buyers start their search online. High-quality photos, virtual tours, and engaging descriptions are essential to grab their attention. Make sure your online listings showcase the best features of your property, and consider sharing your listing on social media for greater reach.

5. Be Ready for Showings

Flexibility with showings can be key to selling quickly. Keep your home show-ready at all times, so potential buyers can see it at their convenience. Make a habit of tidying up each day to keep the home looking pristine and welcoming.

Final Thoughts

Selling a home is both exciting and challenging, but with these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to stand out in the market. If you're ready to get started or need personalized guidance, reach out to a real estate professional to make the process smooth and successful.

Greater Toronto Area (GTA) - September 2024 Stats

Home Prices:

• Average Selling Price: $1,107,291
• Price Growth: 2.8% decrease year-over-year
• Detached Homes: $1,423,056
• Att/Row/Townhouse: $982,656
• Condominiums: $750,000

Sales Volume:

• Total Sales: 4,996 (down 8.5% from last year)
• New Listings: 18,906 (up 10.5% from last year)

Days on Market (DOM):

• Average Days on Market: 27 days (up from 35 days last year)

Supply vs. Demand:

• Increased listings resulted in a better-supplied market and more negotiating power for buyers re-entering the market.
• Inflation: Down to 2%

Interest Rates:

• Bank of Canada Overnight Rate: 4.3% for 5-year fixed

Peel Region - September 2024 Stats

Home Prices:

• Average Selling Price: $1,058,346
• Detached Homes: $1,317,472
• Semi-Detached Homes: $960,118
• Condominiums: $675,000

Sales Volume:

• Total Sales: 907 (down 8% from last year)
• New Listings: 3,150 (up 4% from last year)

Days on Market (DOM):

• Average Days on Market: 26 days (up from 18 days last year)

Supply vs. Demand:

• Months of Inventory: Balanced market leaning toward buyers (down 10% from last year

 Greater Toronto Area (GTA) home sales increased year-overyear in September. Buyers were starting to take advantage of more affordable market conditions brought about by interest rate cuts and lower home prices.