Is 2026 the Year to Move? Expert Insights on Price Trends & Affordability

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

With economic shifts, interest rate changes on the horizon, and a stabilizing housing landscape, many Toronto buyers and sellers are asking the same question: Is 2026 the right time to move?

Toronto’s real estate market is entering the year with more balance, more predictability, and clearer opportunities than we’ve seen in recent cycles. Whether you’re considering a purchase, planning an upgrade, or thinking about selling, understanding the price and affordability outlook is essential.

Here’s an expert breakdown of what 2026 means for Toronto homeowners and hopeful buyers.

1. Price Trends Are Stabilizing After Years of Volatility

Toronto’s market closed out 2025 in a more balanced state, giving 2026 a solid foundation. After rapid fluctuations caused by rate movements, the last quarter of 2025 delivered something the GTA hasn’t seen in years: pricing consistency.

Current trends suggest

• Condos remain the most stable entry-level option
  
  
• Townhomes are holding value due to limited supply
  
  
• Freeholds remain strong in high-demand pockets
  
  
• Detached homes in central Toronto continue attracting lifestyle-driven buyers
  
  

Price stabilization is not only beneficial for market confidence — it also makes planning a move more predictable.

2. Affordability Is Slowly Improving — Especially for First-Time Buyers

While Toronto will never be a “cheap” market, affordability in 2026 looks different than it did in the peak years.

Key factors improving affordability

• Stabilized interest rates, making mortgage planning clearer
  
  
• Slightly increased inventory, giving buyers more choice
  
  
• Softer bidding wars compared to past years
  
  
• A growing preference for condos and stack-town developments
  
  

Many renters may find their monthly mortgage payments surprisingly comparable in 2026, especially if rates begin to ease in the second half of the year.

3. Interest Rate Expectations Are Fueling Growing Buyer Confidence

Economists are anticipating potential rate cuts later in 2026, and while nothing is guaranteed, the sentiment alone is influencing buyer behaviour.

This matters because

• Buyers are locking in pre-approvals earlier
  
  
• Mortgage planning is becoming more straightforward
  
  
• Renewed interest is expected across multiple price segments
  
  
• Market activity typically rises ahead of rate shifts
  
  

Even a modest adjustment could boost affordability and increase competition, making early 2026 a strategic window for buyers.

4. Is 2026 a Good Year to Move for Sellers?

For sellers wondering if it’s the right year to make a move, the answer depends on motivation, timing, and property type — but overall, 2026 is favourable for well-prepared sellers.

Why?

• Buyers are returning with confidence
  
  
• Pricing is stable, not declining
  
  
• Inventory remains controlled — not oversaturated
  
  
• Well-marketed, move-in-ready homes continue to sell efficiently
  
  

Sellers who price their homes correctly and list before competition spikes (spring and fall) will benefit most.

5. Toronto’s Condo Market Is Rebounding

One of the biggest storylines of 2026 will be the condo market revival.

Expect continued demand from

• First-time buyers
  
  
• Young professionals
  
  
• Investors seeking long-term appreciation
  
  
• Downsizers wanting turnkey living
  
  

Well-located buildings near transit, lifestyle amenities, and revitalizing neighbourhoods will lead the way.

6. Move-Up Buyers Have New Opportunities

Homeowners looking to upgrade — from condo to freehold, or from semis to detached — may find 2026 the most strategic time in years.

Reasons include

• Balanced market conditions
  
  
• Larger homes experiencing softer price acceleration
  
  
• Improved negotiation opportunities
  
  
• Clearer financial planning due to rate stability
  
  

Move-up buyers who list strategically can maximize their equity and transition smoothly.

What This Means for You

If You’re a Buyer

• 2026 offers improved affordability and more inventory
  
  
• Early-year conditions may provide less competition
  
  
• Condos and townhomes present strong opportunities
  
  
• Preparing your financing early will be a major advantage
  
  

If You’re a Seller

• Stable pricing creates a predictable selling environment
  
  
• Buyers are motivated but data-driven, so preparation matters
  
  
• This year rewards professionally marketed and well-presented homes
  
  
• Listing ahead of rate changes may help you capture peak demand
  
  

If You’re Unsure Whether to Move

A personalized strategy session can clarify

• Your affordability
  
  
• Your equity position
  
  
• The best timing for your goals
  
  
• Whether buying, selling, or holding makes the most sense for 2026
  
  

Toronto’s market is entering a healthier, more balanced cycle — offering strong opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

Planning a move in Toronto in 2026?

Request your custom Toronto 2026 Price & Affordability Strategy Session and experience the AB Advantage™.

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