After five consecutive months of rising activity, Canada’s housing market took a brief pause in September 2025. Nationally, sales slipped slightly, though it remained one of the busiest Septembers since 2021. In Ontario’s East GTA, Durham Region, and Northumberland County, however, steady demand and improved affordability continued to fuel meaningful movement especially among motivated buyers who have been waiting for rates to ease.

Sales Ease, But Stability Holds

National home sales edged down 1.7% from August, a modest slowdown largely influenced by declines in a few major cities. The Greater Toronto Area saw the opposite trend, recording modest growth and proving once again that Ontario’s east corridor continues to attract buyers looking for value and lifestyle.

Even with the slight dip, activity remains stronger than it has been through much of the past three years. With borrowing costs softening and inventory normalizing, many households are re-engaging with the market, setting the stage for a healthier long-term recovery.

Supply Levels Remain Balanced

New listings across Canada held steady, inching down just under 1% month-over-month. That balance between new supply and buyer demand kept the national market firmly within a neutral range—an environment where both sides can negotiate fairly.

Here in Durham and Northumberland, that’s translating to increased options for buyers without triggering steep price drops. With more inventory available and homes spending slightly longer on the market, buyers have the time to make informed decisions while sellers continue to secure strong offers when priced strategically.

Prices Find Their Footing

After a soft start to 2025, national home prices have flattened out, showing virtually no change month-over-month. Across our regions, detached homes remain steady, while entry-level and mid-range properties continue to draw consistent interest.

Year-over-year, national prices are still a few points below where they stood in 2024, but that gap is expected to close through the remainder of the year. For buyers, this means the window for negotiating favorable terms is still open but may not last long as confidence grows and rate cuts continue.

A Look Toward 2026

Updated forecasts from the Canadian Real Estate Association suggest a return to stronger activity next year. After a mild adjustment in 2025, sales are expected to climb nearly 8% in 2026, driven by lower borrowing costs, renewed consumer confidence, and years of pent-up demand.

Locally, we anticipate continued momentum across Whitby, Oshawa, Bowmanville, Cobourg, and Brighton communities that remain high on buyers’ lists for affordability, lifestyle, and long-term growth potential.

What This Means for You

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy or sell, this balanced market offers the best of both worlds: more inventory, realistic pricing, and a competitive yet stable environment. With rates trending lower and confidence slowly returning, the next few months may be the smartest window to make your move before the next wave of activity in 2026.

At Team Prata Real Estate, we combine advanced AI marketing strategies, deep local insight, and community-first service to help you move with confidence in this shifting market. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, our team will guide you every step of the way.

Let’s talk about your next move.