By: Bharti Ria

January 2025 Market Overview

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

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By: Bharti Ria


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]

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By: Bharti Ria

Low Prices Won't Last!


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.

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By: Bharti Ria


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.

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By: Bharti Ria

 

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.

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