Toronto Real Estate Market Update: June Recap & Summer Predictions

Welcome to our latest market update, where we dive deep into the Toronto real estate market's current state and provide predictions for the upcoming months. As we navigate through these challenging times, staying informed is crucial for making educated decisions. In this post, we'll recap the end of June's market numbers, discuss what July and August might look like, and offer valuable advice for buyers, sellers, and investors.

June Market Recap

Transactions and Market Activity

The end of June brought some significant numbers that are worth examining. We saw a total of 6,213 transactions in June, which is a noticeable decline from just over 7,000 transactions in May. This drop in activity indicates that fewer transactions successfully went to market and closed.

Year-over-year, transactions are down approximately 15-16%. This decline aligns with the ongoing sluggishness in the market. Despite homes still selling, we are not in a better position compared to last year in terms of the number of transactions.

Average Prices

The average price for homes across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), encompassing all property types, remains relatively flat compared to last year. If you had your home evaluated last year and are curious about its current value, it's essential to understand that general market numbers might not reflect your specific situation.

• Condos: We've observed a substantial decline in condo prices.
• Single-family homes: Some neighborhoods have experienced slight upticks.

It's crucial to get specific advice and information related to your property rather than relying solely on general market numbers.

Days on Market

Another critical aspect of the current market is the days on market (DOM). At the end of May, properties were sitting for a certain number of days, and this number increased by the end of June. We anticipate that the DOM will continue to grow longer as we head into the summer months.

July and August Predictions

Market Slowdown

As we move into July and August, the market is expected to remain slow. The summer months traditionally see a dip in activity, and this year is no exception. However, there are some key points to consider:

• Inventory: New listings are up from the previous year, with 17,960 new listings at the end of June.
• Buyer Activity: We typically lose about 80% of buyers to vacations, holidays, and back-to-school preparations in August.

Strategic Advice for Sellers

If you're considering listing your home, timing is everything. Here are some strategic tips:

• August Listings: Unless your property is exceptionally rare and aggressively priced, it might not be the best time to list in August. Buyer activity is low, and the market environment is already stale.
• Prepare for Fall: Use the summer to enhance your home's curb appeal and tackle any necessary interior work. Aim to list your property in the fall when the market tends to pick up after Labor Day.

Expert Tips for Navigating the Market

Get Specific Advice

General market numbers provide a broad overview but don't necessarily reflect your property's unique situation. We recommend getting a professional evaluation to understand your property's current value accurately.

Prepare for the Fall Market

With the market expected to pick up in the fall, now is the time to get ready:

• Curb Appeal: Summer is an excellent time to work on your home's exterior. Improving curb appeal can significantly impact buyers' first impressions.
• Interior Work: Focus on any necessary repairs or updates inside your home. Use the rainy days of summer to your advantage.

Market Readiness

If your home has been on the market since early spring without much interest, consider pausing your listing. Relaunching in the fall with a refreshed strategy and proper pricing can make a significant difference.

Insights for Buyers and Investors

Condo Market Decline

The condo market has seen a substantial decline, and we believe we haven't reached the bottom yet. There's still a considerable exodus from the downtown core, presenting unique opportunities for buyers and investors.

Interest Rates and Market Confidence

Interest rate reductions by the Bank of Canada have not been aggressive enough to restore full market confidence. The timing of these reductions is also less than ideal, as August's low activity levels don't provide enough acceleration to boost the market.

Selling Investment Properties

If you're contemplating selling an investment property, it's crucial to get an up-to-date opinion of value. This will help you make informed decisions about whether to sell or hold onto your property.

Personalized Advice from The Othen Group

Navigating the real estate market can be challenging, especially in uncertain times. Our team at The Othen Group is here to provide personalized advice and support tailored to your unique situation.

Confidential Conversations

We offer free, confidential conversations to help you understand your options and make informed decisions. Whether you're facing a difficult situation or just need some professional guidance, we're here to help.

Contact Us

Reach out to us directly for an honest discussion about your real estate needs:

• Phone: 647-383-7653
• Email: jacquie@othengroup.com

Conclusion

Staying informed and prepared is key to navigating the Toronto real estate market. With the end of June numbers providing valuable insights, we can anticipate a slow summer and a potentially more active fall market. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or investor, taking strategic steps now can set you up for success in the coming months.

For more expert insights and updates, subscribe to our YouTube channel and stay tuned for future posts. Share this information with friends and family who might benefit from it, and don't hesitate to reach out to us for personalized advice.

Thank you for reading, and have a wonderful July!