Is It Officially a Buyer’s Market in Canada? Here’s How To Tell and What To Do About It
Is It Finally a Buyer’s Market?
Here’s How To Tell—and What To Do About It
If you’ve been watching the market, you’ve probably heard whispers that the tides are turning. After years of competitive bidding wars and rising prices, buyers across Ontario are finally feeling like they might have the upper hand.
But what exactly defines a buyer’s market—and how can you make the most of it before it shifts again? Let’s break it down.
1. What Makes a Market a “Buyer’s Market”?
A buyer’s market occurs when there are more homes for sale than there are buyers. This extra supply gives purchasers leverage—meaning more negotiating room, better pricing, and often fewer competing offers.
You’re likely in a buyer’s market if you’re noticing:
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Homes staying on the market longer than 30–45 days
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Frequent price reductions or “motivated seller” listings
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Conditional offers (inspection, financing, etc.) being accepted again
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A sales-to-listing ratio under 50% (more listings than sales)
2. What’s Happening in the GTA and Ontario Right Now
Across the Greater Toronto and surrounding regions, the fall 2025 data is starting to favour buyers.
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Days on Market (DOM) have increased to an average of 32–45 days, compared to just 12–18 in early 2022.
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Inventory is up in most markets, especially for condos and suburban townhomes.
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Interest rate adjustments and the recent Bank of Canada rate cut have brought more balance back into negotiations.
This shift is giving buyers something they haven’t had in years—time to think, compare, and plan strategically.
3. How Buyers Can Leverage the Market
Now is the time for serious buyers to act strategically. Here’s how:
✅ Negotiate, don’t hesitate.
Sellers are far more open to price adjustments, closing date flexibility, and even credits for updates or repairs.
✅ Add conditions confidently.
You can (and should) protect yourself with financing, inspection, and sale-of-home clauses without being overlooked.
✅ Look for stale listings.
Homes sitting over 30 days are prime opportunities for negotiation—especially if the sellers have already purchased elsewhere.
✅ Work with a connected agent.
Access to off-market listings, builder inventory, or pre-construction deals can give you an edge in this environment.
4. What to Avoid
While buyers have more control, that doesn’t mean every deal is a good one. Be wary of:
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Overpriced listings that still haven’t adjusted to market reality
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Properties with deferred maintenance or hidden costs
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Stretching your budget because “it’s a deal” — long-term affordability still matters
Even in a buyer’s market, strategy beats emotion every time.
5. How to Take Advantage of the Window
The market won’t stay balanced forever. Historically, lower interest rates tend to bring competition back quickly. If your finances are in order and your long-term goals align, now is a smart time to buy before demand picks up again.
Ana Bastas Realty helps buyers navigate every step — from custom market analysis to neighbourhood insights, offer negotiations, and financing connections that make a difference.
Final Thoughts
The GTA and surrounding markets are finally giving buyers room to breathe. Whether this window lasts a few months or a full year, the key is preparation, timing, and professional guidance.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to step in—this could be it.
📞 Call 289.670.5888 or visit www.anabastas.ca to connect with our team and start your buying journey with confidence.
🏡 Ana Bastas Realty | Experience the AB Advantage™
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