Closing Out 2025: How Last Year’s Market Sets the Stage for 2026

Halton Edition
🏡 Ana Bastas Realty | Experience the AB Advantage™

Halton remains one of the most sought-after regions in the Greater Toronto Area, and as we transition into 2026, both buyers and sellers are evaluating how last year’s trends will shape the months ahead. With strong suburban appeal, excellent schools, and consistent demand across property types, Halton enters 2026 with stability and opportunity.

Here’s how the 2025 market performance is setting the tone for Halton’s real estate landscape in 2026.

1. Halton Ended 2025 with Strong, Steady Demand

While some GTA markets saw more fluctuation, Halton remained a high-demand region throughout 2025. Families continued prioritizing space, lifestyle, and access to top-rated schools—key drivers in communities like Oakville, Burlington, Georgetown, and Milton.

Key takeaways from late 2025

• Detached homes remained competitive despite softer price growth
  
  
• Townhomes and semis attracted strong interest due to affordability gaps
  
  
• Condo sales increased, particularly in Burlington and Oakville, as first-time buyers re-entered the market
  
  

This consistent demand provides a solid foundation for early 2026 activity.

2. Inventory Levels Shifted in 2025—Creating Balance for 2026

Halton saw a slight increase in listings in the latter half of 2025, improving buyer choice without oversaturating the market. Sellers also became more strategic about timing due to interest rate uncertainty.

As a result, entering 2026 we see

• A more balanced market
  
  
• Continued buyer activity driven by lifestyle shifts
  
  
• Price stability across most home types
  
  
• Reduced urgency, but steady confidence
  
  

This positions Halton as one of the healthiest real estate environments heading into 2026.

3. Rate Stabilization Improved Buyer Confidence

The tail end of 2025 brought early signs that interest rates may begin easing in 2026. Even without a rate cut, the stabilization alone had a notable impact on buyer sentiment.

In Halton, this translated into

• Increased pre-approval activity
  
  
• More first-time buyers exploring Milton, Acton, and Georgetown
  
  
• Renewed interest in move-up homes for growing families
  
  
• Greater predictability for long-term planning
  
  

Stable borrowing expectations play a major role in the confidence we’re already seeing this January.

4. Affordability Remains a Challenge—but Opportunities Are Growing

Halton continues to be one of the more expensive regions in the GTA, especially in Burlington and Oakville. However, several trends in 2025 opened new doors for buyers in 2026.

Notable shifts include

• Condos rising as top entry-level choices
  
  
• Increased interest in smaller freeholds in Milton
  
  
• Growing appeal of Georgetown and Acton for balanced price-to-value
  
  
• More buyers prioritizing commute flexibility, choosing family-friendly suburbs
  
  

Opportunities remain strongest for well-prepared buyers entering the market early in the year.

5. Sellers Faced a More Informed Buyer Pool

2025 buyers were cautious, selective, and more data-driven. Homes that showed well and were priced strategically performed best.

Sellers entering 2026 should expect

• Serious buyers, but not rushed ones
  
  
• Strong demand for updated, move-in-ready homes
  
  
• Competitive conditions for properties priced accurately
  
  
• The need for expert marketing and neighborhood-specific strategy
  
  

Halton sellers who position their home properly will continue to attract quality buyers.

6. Investors Increasingly Look to Halton for Stability

While cash-flow properties remain rare in Halton, investors in 2025 focused on

• Appreciation potential
  
  
• Detached rentals in Milton and Georgetown
  
  
• Condo rentals in Burlington and Oakville due to consistent demand
  
  

With stable rental markets and strong long-term fundamentals, investors are expected to take a closer look at Halton throughout 2026—especially as rate changes unfold.

What This Means for You

If You’re a Buyer

• Entering early 2026 may provide more choice and less competition
  
  
• Townhomes and condos offer excellent entry points
  
  
• Rate stability helps clarify affordability
  
  
• Milton, Acton, and Georgetown remain value-driven options
  
  

If You’re a Seller

• Pricing will be critical to attract today’s selective buyers
  
  
• Homes with upgrades and strong presentation will stand out
  
  
• Listing early in the year may help you beat spring competition
  
  
• Steady demand in Halton remains a major advantage
  
  

If You’re an Investor

• Appreciation potential is strong in most Halton communities
  
  
• Rental demand remains steady in Burlington, Oakville, and Milton
  
  
• 2026 may bring improved returns as rates begin to shift
  
  

Halton enters 2026 with confidence, stability, and opportunity across every real estate segment.

Ready to plan your 2026 move in Halton?

Request your customized Halton Market Strategy Session and experience the AB Advantage™.

📞 289.670.5888
🌐 www.anabastas.ca
🏡 Ana Bastas Realty — Serving Halton Hills, Milton, Burlington, Oakville, Toronto, Hamilton & the Niagara Region