York Region Real Estate Update: More Listings, Fewer Sales, and a Shift Toward Balance
The York Region real estate market is showing clear signs of transition this fall. While the headlines may focus on slowing sales, the real story is more nuanced, one of shifting affordability, increasing inventory, and a market that’s gradually finding its footing again.
Sales Activity Slows — But Context Matters
Sales volume across York Region rose 18% compared to September 2024, but when we zoom out, the bigger picture looks different. Year-to-date, sales remain down more than 11% versus last year marking one of the slowest years for home transactions in over three decades.
The decline hasn’t been uniform, either. Aurora has seen the sharpest slowdown, with roughly 25% fewer homes sold compared to 2024. Meanwhile, Georgina has held up better, down just under 8%. Much of that difference comes down to price: the more affordable the community, the steadier the activity.
This imbalance points to one underlying theme, buyers are hesitant at today’s price points. Even with some easing in interest rates, affordability remains a key challenge.
Affordability and Rates: Still a Balancing Act
While interest rates have slowly trended downward, many households are still feeling the pinch of higher monthly payments. Slightly lower borrowing costs have helped confidence, but not enough to reignite the pace of sales we saw in earlier market cycles.
Until there’s a more meaningful improvement in affordability either through price adjustments or further rate relief many potential buyers are continuing to wait and watch.
Inventory Expands, Giving Buyers Breathing Room
If you’ve been house hunting lately, you’ve likely noticed the difference. Active listings are up about 19% year over year, giving buyers more choice and time to make decisions.
Communities like Aurora and King have seen the largest boost in supply, over 25% more homes available, while Whitchurch-Stouffville’s inventory rose a modest 10%. More listings mean fewer bidding wars and more balanced negotiations, especially for move-up and luxury buyers who now have the space to compare options.
Investors Pull Back, Market Becomes More Genuine
One of the more interesting shifts this year is the cooling of investor activity. With rental rates softening and profit margins shrinking, many short-term or speculative investors have stepped aside. As a result, today’s transactions are being driven mostly by end-users, families, professionals, and downsizers motivated by lifestyle rather than speculation.
That’s a healthy sign for long-term stability. It means the market is relying less on momentum and more on real need.
The Market Finds Its Balance
What we’re seeing now is not a collapse, it’s a correction toward equilibrium. After years of intensity, the York Region housing market is becoming more measured, data-driven, and strategic.
This new phase rewards informed decisions, strong guidance, and local expertise, all of which are key to navigating timing, pricing, and opportunity effectively.
Looking Ahead
As 2025 winds down, York Region’s market continues to evolve. Prices are holding relatively steady, listings are climbing, and buyers are becoming more selective. For sellers, that means presentation and strategy matter more than ever. For buyers, patience and preparation can open doors that weren’t available even a year ago.
If you’d like a deeper look at current stats, from neighbourhood trends to price movement, check out this month’s issue of The Market: York Region’s Monthly Real Estate Magazine, produced by The Toombs Team. It’s packed with data, charts, and our professional insights to help you move with confidence, whatever your next step may be.
