As 2025 draws toward its close, Canada’s real estate landscape is marking a meaningful transition — not a collapse, not a boom — but a recalibration. What we are seeing across Toronto and key markets nationally reflects both challenge and opportunity for buyers, sellers, developers, and investors alike.
Toronto: Balance Amid Adjustment Across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), recent statistics show a softening in both prices and activity as we head into winter. The benchmark home price in November sat around $951,700, representing a roughly 5–6% year-over-year decline, with the average sold price about $1.04M — down from 2024 peaks.
Transactions slipped sharply on both monthly and yearly comparisons, reflecting buyer caution and seasonal trends. Inventory remains elevated relative to transactions, but recent decreases in new listings have helped keep conditions roughly balanced rather than strongly favouring either buyers or sellers.
The market tone is measured and deliberate. Homes are staying on the market longer than we saw during the frenetic pandemic years, and price negotiation is a real factor once again. Mortgage rate cuts earlier this year have helped at the edges, but affordability constraints — especially where incomes haven’t kept pace with legacy price levels — continue to temper demand.
National Trends: Divergence by Region Canada’s broader housing market paints a varied picture: National activity remains in a balanced zone, with total MLS® listings somewhat elevated but not extreme, and the national sales-to-new-listings ratio aligning with long-term norms.
Eastern and Prairie markets are showing relative resilience, with places like Montreal demonstrating gradual recovery in sales and price strength, particularly in low-rise segments, even as Toronto and southern Ontario slow.
Housing starts posted a notable increase in November, suggesting that builders are responding to persistent demand for new supply.
Economists forecast that Canada’s overall home price trajectory will remain subdued through 2026 before broader recovery resumes — underlining the importance of regional selection rather than blanket assumptions about “the market.”
Where Smart Capital Is Flowing As the housing cycle evolves, opportunities are shifting. Here are the key segments we’re watching:
1. Emerging Growth Corridors While Toronto and Vancouver remain major economic hubs, other regions are gaining attention for growth, relative affordability, and demographic tailwinds:
Kawarthas & Peterborough (Ontario) — scenic communities benefiting from both lifestyle demand and investor interest.
Thunder Bay & Northern Ontario markets — pricing is still accessible and demand is beginning to build.
Quebec cities with stable affordability and strong economic foundations continue to draw buyers priced out of larger Ontario/BC markets.
These markets don’t deliver Toronto-like instant appreciation, but for patient investors, they blend sensible valuation with upside.
2. Condos: Strategic Entry + Rental Potential In Toronto’s core, the condo segment — especially in midtown — remains an effective entry point for long-term wealth building. Midtown’s combination of transit access, lifestyle appeal, and relatively lower per-square-foot cost makes it a compelling choice for first-time investors and rental portfolio builders alike. Demand from urban professionals and students supports rental absorption even as prices recalibrate.
Downtown continues to attract tenants consistently, though carrying costs and condo fees mean that patient capital and long-term outlook are essential.
3. Income-Producing Real Estate Instruments For investors seeking real estate exposure without direct property management, Canadian REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) are increasingly attractive. They offer diversified exposure across residential, industrial, office, and retail sectors, with many paying monthly dividends and requiring no mortgage approval or hands-on landlord duties.
Strategic Takeaways for December 2025 Toronto’s market is more balanced than bearish, and disciplined pricing is key for sellers; buyers have more leverage, but values are holding within reach of long-term fundamentals.
Regional diversification is paramount: focus beyond the usual suspects to areas with stronger affordability and economic drivers.
Condos remain a wise play for new investors — particularly where rental demand is sustained and entry prices are softened.
REITs unlock capital efficiency, making them a strong complement or alternative to direct property investment.
Looking ahead to 2026, prudent investors will benefit from prioritizing fundamentals over headlines, tempering expectations with data, and aligning strategy with long-term demographic and economic realities.
Real estate may not move as fast as in the past decade’s headlines, but solid returns still accrue to those who combine patience, insight, and courage to act when others hesitate.
If you would like bespoke insights for your portfolio or community, I’m here to talk — let’s position your capital where it thrives.
The Toronto and Greater Toronto Area (GTA) housing market has always been full of movement and surprises. But in 2025, one word defines the landscape for sellers: patience. If you’re thinking of listing your home this summer, it may feel tempting to follow the crowd and jump in now. After all, “sell before it drops further” is a headline we see everywhere. But here’s the truth: this isn’t a season for panic selling. It’s a season for strategy. Why the Market Is Quiet Right Now
Buyers are cautious. Rising inventory has given them more choice, while higher interest rates continue to chip away at affordability. Many buyers are simply waiting—watching for clarity on rate cuts and more stability before making a move. That’s why summer 2025 feels unusually sluggish. Sellers who rush to market in July or August risk landing in a buyer’s market where offers are scarce and negotiations drag.
The Seasonal Rebound
Real estate, like nature, has its seasons. Year after year, we see a rhythm: buyers go quiet in the summer and reappear in the fall. Families are settled back into school routines, vacations are over, and pent-up demand resurfaces. That’s why I advise my clients to hold off until late September or early October to list. You’ll meet buyers when they’re refreshed and ready—rather than trying to push against the summer slowdown.
Keep It Lean—Not Lavish
Against the grain of industry advice, I don’t believe in pouring money into extravagant staging or unnecessary “cherries on top.” This is not the market for over-the-top spending. Today’s buyers aren’t dazzled by designer throw pillows. They’re laser-focused on value and long-term affordability. A clean, well-maintained home, presented with authenticity and priced correctly, will attract far more serious attention than a house dressed up like a showroom.
The Longer View
We need to be realistic: the market will not see significant climbs for at least the next 12 months. That doesn’t mean opportunity is gone—it simply means the strategy must match the moment. Sellers who understand this are the ones who will avoid disappointment and position themselves for success when conditions improve.
Final Word: Don’t Chase the Market
If you’re selling in Toronto or the GTA, your smartest move this summer is to wait. Let the fall market come to you. Patience is not just a virtue right now—it’s the winning strategy. — 📞 Thinking of selling this fall? Let’s talk strategy now so your home is perfectly positioned when the buyers return.
👉 Visit CallMarta.ca or contact me directly at 647-836-9130.
Toronto’s real estate market is balanced but cautious. June saw a modest sales increase — roughly 8% higher than May — yet prices remain about 5% lower than this time last year. Interest rate cuts are improving affordability, but economic uncertainty and buyer hesitancy mean offers aren’t flying in overnight.
Inventory continues to climb, average days on market sit at 29 days, and buyers are well-informed, comparing hard data rather than reacting emotionally.
The Staging Myth: Why Sellers Should Rethink “All the Extras”
Everywhere you look, sellers are being told to stage, scent, and sweeten the deal with fancy furniture and fresh-baked cookies. Here’s the reality:
Today’s buyers are analytical. They scroll through data, compare comps, and evaluate monthly costs — décor won’t distract them.
Overspending won’t pay off. In a market where prices are softening, elaborate staging is money you won’t recover.
Keep it lean and honest. Clean, declutter, fix what’s broken. No need to turn the home into a magazine spread.
Bottom line: Authenticity sells. Over-prepping wastes time and money in today’s market.
What to Expect in the Next 6 Weeks
Prices: Likely flat to slightly lower (≈1% dip) through late summer.
Sales Volume: Steady activity, but no surge — families finalizing moves before school starts.
Inventory: Expected 3–5% increase in listings, giving buyers more options and leverage.
Condos & Pre‑Construction: Resale condos may soften further; new builds offering incentives rather than price drops.
Seller Strategy for Summer 2025
Price realistically — not lowball. Forget the “list low and wait for offer night” tactic. It’s not working right now. Underpricing will frustrate serious buyers and waste everyone’s time. List at a common-sense price based on comparable sales and current data.
Simplify presentation. Declutter, clean, and fix visible repairs. Skip the costly furniture rentals and focus on fundamentals.
Act decisively. If you need to sell, list now and price fairly; waiting for a bidding frenzy isn’t today’s reality.
Buyer Strategy
Negotiate wisely. Target homes sitting 30+ days; expect 1–3% discounts from asking.
Look past cosmetics. Homes without staging may present the best deals.
Secure financing early. Rate cuts help, but stability isn’t guaranteed — lock in now.
The CallMarta.ca Take
Toronto’s market is neither crashing nor surging — it’s recalibrating. Over the next six weeks, honesty and pragmatism win. Sellers: skip the theatrics and price sensibly. Buyers: know your numbers, move deliberately, and don’t be dazzled by décor.
Northcore Condo is an exciting new development located in the heart of North York. This dynamic community offers unparalleled access to all the amenities and attractions of the city, including eight entrances to the Yonge/Sheppard TTC subway interchange and a short 26-minute ride to Union Station. Residents will also have access to Albert Standing Park, a stunning 60,000 sq. ft. parkland adjacent to NorthCore. With thoughtful design details that maximize suite layouts offering exceptional function and form, this is parkside living at its best!
The Location
Northcore Condo is located in one of Toronto’s most desirable neighbourhoods – Yonge and Sheppard. This vibrant area has something for everyone – from trendy restaurants, cafes and boutiques to beautiful parks and green spaces. The condo is conveniently close to major highways making it easy for commuters to get around the city quickly and efficiently. And with eight different entrances to the Yonge/Sheppard TTC subway interchange, you’ll never be far from your destination.
Suite Layouts
The developers of Northcore have gone above and beyond when it comes to maximizing suite layouts for exceptional function and form. Each suite is thoughtfully designed with high-quality finishes, spacious balconies or terraces with stunning views of the city skyline or parkland below, modern appliances, floor-to-ceiling windows and more! With options ranging from 1 bedroom suites up to 3 bedrooms + den suites, there’s something for everyone at Northcore Condo!
Amenities
Northcore residents can take advantage of an array of amenities such as a state-of-the-art fitness centre equipped with cardio machines & weight training equipment; an outdoor pool & terrace; a party room; an outdoor lounge area complete with BBQs & fireplaces; as well as a pet spa & grooming station so furry friends don’t miss out on all the fun! There’s also plenty of shopping options nearby including grocery stores, pharmacies & retail stores right at your doorstep!
NorthCore Condo is an excellent option for those looking for an incomparable living experience in the heart of Toronto’s bustling North York neighbourhood. With thoughtful design details that maximize suite layouts offering exceptional function and form combined with convenient access to transit hubs like Union Station as well as parkside living at its best – this could be just what you are looking for! Be sure to register now directly with Marta if you are interested in learning more about this fantastic opportunity!
– – –
NorthCore Condos Price List
In conclusion, if you want to get the best prices, plans, availabilities and latest promos on Northcore condos in North York, your best bet is to call Marta Pozniakowski directly. She has a proven track record of exceeding her clients’ expectations with her high level of expertise and professionalism. She will personally attend to all your needs and direct you towards the perfect property for you.
Don’t wait for too long and make sure to make the right investment decisions.
Get on board today by giving Marta a call at 647-836-9130 or visit callmarta.ca and let her help you find your dream condo in North York!