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Toronto Real Estate Market Report - August 2025

RENTAL MARKET HEATS UP

The standout story of August was the sizzling rental market, with leasing activity around August 1st reaching levels not seen in more than two years. A mix of factors fueled this surge: students preparing for the new school year, announcements from the provincial government and the Big Five banks, and growing expectations that more corporations will follow with supportive measures. This increased demand should give investors more confidence in renting as a viable alternative to selling. If the trend continues, leased rentals could soon outpace new rental listings, with the result being fewer condominiums available for purchase.

“Leasing activity around August 1st reached levels not seen in more than two years”

Source: Habitat in partnership with Proptx

SALES AND LISTINGS ACTIVITY

According to the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), GTA REALTORS® reported 5,211 home sales through TRREB’s MLS® System in August 2025—up 2.3% year-over-year. At the same time, 14,038 new listings were added to the system, marking a 9.4% increase compared to August 2024.

The momentum that began in July with cautious buyers beginning to re-enter the market and activity showing positive traction across several segments.

Source: Toronto Regional Real Estate Board

HOT PRICE POINTS

Multiple-offer scenarios were most common at two distinct price ranges:

  • $800,000 to $1,250,000 particularly in established, high-demand neighbourhoods.

  • $1,800,000 to $2,100,000 where activity also picked up noticeably.

Pre-approval applications are on the rise, indicating that many buyers are possibly preparing in advance so they can move quickly if the right property becomes available.

CONFIDENCE VS INTEREST RATES

The number one issue impacting today’s real estate market is consumer confidence. Buyers remain nervous and cautious, preferring a “wait-and-see” approach until they gain a clearer sense of economic stability.

Contrary to common belief, it isn’t just interest rates holding back demand—it’s confidence. That said, recent reports showing slower economic growth and unfavorable employment numbers have increased the probability of an interest rate cut in September. Should borrowing costs ease, more buyers are expected to return from the sidelines to the market, eager to take advantage of current inventory levels.

PROPERTY TRENDS

  • Turnkey homes—modern, move-in-ready properties—are selling quickly.

  • Homes that are dated or located in oversupplied neighbourhoods continue to sit on the market longer.

  • Sellers are being forced to adjust, focusing on smart pricing strategies and staging their homes to attract attention.

NEGOTIATION LANDSCAPE

Today’s market has given buyers more leverage. Even in multiple-offer situations, it is possible to win with a conditional offer—a significant shift from the competitive dynamics of recent years. However, some buyers are misreading their opportunities, failing to fully recognize the advantages this market presents.

For sellers, the message is clear: success depends on smart pricing, strong presentation, and an understanding that performance varies widely by neighbourhood and property type.

Source: Toronto Regional Real Estate Board

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What You Get When Buying a Toronto Luxury Home

Luxury homes in Toronto aren’t just about opulence—they’re about lifestyle, legacy, and exceptional detail. From sophisticated architecture to elite neighbourhoods, here’s a richer, more relatable take on what truly defines luxury living in the city and why it matters.

1. Prime Location—It’s as Much About Where as What

  • Rosedale: One of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious neighbourhoods, home to elite figures like media magnates and royalty. It’s synonymous with “old money” and timeless appeal. 

  • The Bridle Path: Known as “Millionaires’ Row,” this enclave is defined by sprawling estates on multi-acre lots and unmatched privacy. 

2. Exquisite Design & Bespoke Architecture

  • A luxury home is defined by architecture, craftsmanship, and personality—not just square footage. Think unique layouts, premium brands, and historic prestige. 

  • Consider Hollywood-style residences—like Drake’s 50,000 sq ft “Embassy.” It features a limestone façade, NBA-size indoor court under a pyramidal skylight, and luxe amenities that radiate legacy. 

3. High-End Materials & Custom Features

  • Luxury means intention—from rare marbles and imported hardwoods to custom millwork, integrated tech, home theaters, wine cellars, spa-like bathrooms, and automated home systems. 

4. What Luxury Construction Costs

  • Building a luxury custom home in Toronto runs approximately CAD $400–$550 per square foot. A 3,300 sq ft home, for example, could cost between CAD $1.3M and $1.8M. 

  • Other estimates for a 2,500 ft² luxury build place costs around CAD $990,000; larger homes (4,500 ft²) range between CAD $1.37M and $1.7M. 

  • Real-user discussions reflect that high-end builds often exceed $500–$700 per sq ft, especially with custom finishes and premium scope.

5. Long-Term Value & Prestige

  • Owning in these exclusive neighborhoods and investing in bespoke builds isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s legacy. These homes often hold their value through generational transfers and continue to define prestige.

Final Summary

A Toronto luxury home delivers more than four walls and a roof—it’s a curated experience of design, location, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. Whether you're entranced by historic neighbourhoods, architectural elegance, or unmatched luxury finishes, these homes are as emotional as they are valuable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place to buy a house in Toronto?
Top luxury neighbourhoods include Rosedale, known for its historic charm and prominent residents, and Bridle Path, coined “Millionaires’ Row,” celebrated for its expansive estates and privacy. 

How much does it cost to build a luxury home in Toronto?
Expect CAD $400–$550 per sq ft for high-end custom builds (e.g. a 3,300 sq ft home costing up to CAD $1.8M). Another guide estimates a 2,500 ft² luxury build at about CAD $990,000, and 4,500 ft² homes ranging between CAD $1.37M–$1.7M. Real-world discussions often reflect costs closer to $500–$700+ per sq ft depending on finishes and scope. 

Who owns the most expensive homes in Canada?
While detailed ownership data is private, the most costly condo unit sold publicly was the Four Seasons Toronto penthouse, which fetched CAD $28 million in 2012. 


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First-Time Buyer Mistakes to Avoid in Toronto (and How to Sidestep Them)

Buying your first home in Toronto? It's thrilling, overwhelming, and easy to make missteps. With high prices and competitive bidding, one miscalculation can cost thousands—or derail the process completely. Let’s walk through the most common mistakes first-time buyers make, and how you can avoid them with clarity and confidence.

1. Don’t Skip Mortgage Pre-Approval

  • Skipping pre-approval is like shopping for a car without knowing your budget—heartbreak guaranteed. Pre-approval clarifies what you can truly afford and boosts seller confidence. 

  • Your credit score matters. Build it up well before applying—steer clear of big purchases, credit line openings, or new loans during the mortgage process. 

2. Budget Beyond the Down Payment

  • Many overlook closing costs, legal fees, land transfer taxes, home inspections, insurance, and maintenance. These extras can easily add 2–5% to your purchase price. 

  • Be realistic: a home inspection isn’t optional—it often uncovers costly hidden issues and gives you powerful negotiating tools. 

3. Don’t Let Emotions Outweigh Logic

  • Falling for a home based on “vibe” rather than value can lead to overpaying. Make offers grounded in comparable sales and stay emotionally disciplined. 

4. Research the Neighbourhood—Not Just the House

  • It’s tempting to focus on a beautiful kitchen—but what about schools, transit, noise levels, or long-term resale potential? Pay attention beyond the property itself. 

5. Think Long-Term—Beyond Today’s Needs

  • A starter home should still fit your needs several years down the line. You might save yourself another move down the road by thinking ahead. 

Final Summary

In Toronto’s fast-paced market, first-time buyers must not move too quickly, ignore hidden costs, or let emotions cloud judgment. A balanced approach—combining financial readiness, research, and foresight—gives you both confidence and leverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I qualify for a first-time home buyer in Ontario?
You qualify if you (or your spouse/common-law partner) haven’t owned and lived in a home anywhere in the past four years, and purchase a qualifying principal residence in Canada. 

How much do first time home buyers need to put down in Ontario?
Depends on purchase price:

  • Up to $500,000: 5% down

  • Between $500,000 and $1.5M: 5% on first $500K + 10% on remainder

  • Over $1.5M: 20% down 

What is the $10,000 tax credit for first time home buyers in Canada?
It’s the Home Buyers’ Tax Credit. Claim $10,000 on line 31270 to get a non-refundable credit worth up to $1,500. 

What is the first time buyer rebate in Toronto?
While there's no special "rebate" exclusive to Toronto, Ontario buyers may qualify for the GST/HST New Housing Rebate on new or significantly renovated homes, along with federal credits like the HBTC.


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The 5 Hottest GTA Pre-Construction Launches This Year

2025 is heating up for GTA real estate, especially for pre-construction projects that offer modern design, smart locations, and potential value growth. Let’s go beyond the headlines and humanely explore the five projects making the biggest waves—then answer your key Google Snippet questions with clarity and impact.

1. Westshore Towns (Etobicoke – Long Branch)

  • Developer: Minto Communities

  • Pricing: Starts at $571K

  • Why it stands out: Spacious townhome-style units (472–1,282 sq ft), high walk/ transit scores, and completion in 2027. A sweet spot for families and first-time buyers who need room to grow.

2. Bellwoods House (King West)

  • Developer: Republic Developments

  • Pricing: From $599K

  • What it offers: A refined mid-rise in a trendy, walkable King West, complete with efficient layouts and rapid transit access. Move-in projected for 2027.

3. 8 Temple (Liberty Village)

  • Developer: Curated Properties

  • Pricing: Starting at $719K

  • Highlights: A boutique 15-storey tower with generous suites (477–1,351 sq ft) and unbeatable convenience—right before Exhibition station opens. Completion in 2028.

4. 1515 Pickering Parkway (Pickering)

  • Developer: Sevoy Developments

  • Pricing: From $399K

  • Why it's hot: The most affordable launch on the list, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. It offers solid walkability, a GO Transit + future BRT connection, and availability into 2028.

5. LeftBank (Regent Park)

  • Developer: Broccolini

  • Pricing: Starting in the $500K range

  • What sets it apart: Located in an up-and-coming neighborhood with modern design, strong views, and Broccolini’s credibility. Launching in 2025, it's ideal for long-term thinkers.

Final Summary

Whether you're after affordability, design-forward buildings, or location-driven value—these projects span the spectrum. From under-$400K entry in Pickering to premium mid-rises downtown, each offers something unique depending on your budget, timeline, and lifestyle goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pre-builds a good investment?
They can be—offering early pricing, custom options, and staged payments. But beware: delays, unexpected fees, construction quality, and weak resale markets add risk. Pre-construction must be a long-term play, not a shortcut.

Are pre-construction condos worth it?
Maybe—for buyers who carefully vet the developer, understand the contract, and plan to hold for growth. However, recent data shows slowing sales and cost inflation, so make your move strategically.

How much does a pre-construction condo cost in Toronto?
Current prices range significantly, often from $1,000 to $1,600 per sq ft, depending on location and timing. Some downtown units still flirt with the $1,250–$1,600 range.

Is selling pre-construction condos in Canada legal?
Yes—assignment sales are legal, though complex. They depend on builder restrictions and often involve paying the original buyer’s deposit and development charges. Get legal advice before diving in.


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Why Pre-Construction Could Be Your Smartest Investment in 2025

Thinking about getting into real estate in 2025? Pre-construction condos may offer flexibility, customization, and potential upside—but they’re not risk-free. This guide is more human and practical than most, helping you weigh pros and cons like a seasoned strategist.

1. Financial Flexibility & Potential Gains

  • Staggered deposits let you spread the usual 15-20% down payment over months or even years—less upfront strain.

  • You may lock in a lower millennial price; if the market rises, your asset appreciates before you even close.

  • Case in point: Pre-construction condos have yielded over 171% returns in some Toronto scenarios over five years—when timed right.

2. Risks to Be Aware Of

  • Delays or cancellations can leave your deposit tied up—and even though Ontario law and Tarion protections exist, refunds may be slow.

  • Costs often exceed expectations: Watch out for interim occupancy fees, unexpected development charges, and rising maintenance fees once the reserve fund kicks in.

  • Developer reliability matters—poor workmanship and long-term issues have been reported, with limited recourse.

  • Resale path can be rocky: Assignment sales are possible but complex, and with current market softness, flipping may leave investors underwater.

3. What the Market Looks Like for Pre-Construction in 2025

  • The average price for new pre-construction condos in Toronto hovers around C$750,000, or about C$1,320 per square foot.

  • While resale condos are declining (averaging about $682,000, down ~2.6%), pre-construction prices remain stubbornly high.

  • A large supply glut looms: unsold units are at record levels, weighing on prices—TD projects a 15–20% drop from 2023 peak by end of 2025.

  • The resale condo market is equally bruised—April to June sales rose slightly, but prices are still trending downward: Q2 2025 resale average was $683,413, down 6.4%.

4. Timing & Strategy — When Could It Make Sense?

  • If you’re a patient investor with long-term goals (5–10 years), pre-construction may offer greater equity upside—especially in redeveloping or transit-rich areas.

  • But if you're aiming for a place to live soon or rely on cash flow, resale condos may offer more immediate stability and less risk.

  • The current condo market favors buyers—ample inventory, slowdown in investor demand, cheaper resale pricing, and weaker rental demand give you negotiation power.

Final Summary

Pre-construction condos offer alluring flexibility and customization—but they come with serious risks: delays, cost overruns, and possible losses from weak resale timing. In 2025, with a soft market and falling prices, they’re a strategic play only for confident, long-term investors. First-time homebuyers or those seeking safety might lean toward resale.

Google Snippets Q&A

How much does a pre-construction condo cost in Toronto?
On average, it’s approximately C$750,000, or around C$1,320 per square foot.

Are pre-construction condos worth it?
They can be—offering financial flexibility, customization, and potential appreciation. But buyers must weigh these against risks like delays, additional fees, and shifting market conditions.

Is selling pre-construction condos in Canada legal?
Yes—selling via assignment sales is legal but depends on builder policies and may involve fees or contractual hurdles.

Is it a good idea to buy a condo in Toronto now?
For buyers ready to close and live in it, yes—it’s a buyer’s market with falling prices, high inventory, and more negotiating leverage.

Are condo prices dropping in Toronto?
Yes. Condo prices are under downward pressure, with resale averaging C$682,000–$683,000 and declines of ~6% year-over-year; TD projects overall drops up to 20% from 2023 peak by year-end.


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Is a Condo the Right First Property for You?

Buying your first home is exciting—and confounding. Condos can feel like an accessible entry point into property ownership, but they come with their own pros, cons, and hidden costs. This guide dives deeper than the top results, giving you clarity, confidence, and the context to decide if condo life makes sense for you.

1. Why a Condo Might Be a Great Starter Home

  • Lower upfront cost compared to single-family homes — often more attainable in major urban markets.

  • Less maintenance—snow removal, landscaping, and repairs are typically handled by the condo corporation.

  • Location perks—many condos are centrally located and offer walkability, transit access, and community amenities. 

  • Negotiation advantage in a buyer’s market—buyers now enjoy more flexibility on price, closing dates, and incentives. 

2. What You Need to Know: Fees, Rules & Lifestyle Fit

  • Condo fees add up, and they factor into your mortgage stress test—be sure to include them in your budget. 

  • Condo boards impose rules—on renovations, pet policies, rentals, and more, which may limit flexibility. 

  • Market dynamics are slow—appreciation often lags behind freeholds, making condos a slower path to equity growth. 

3. Is Now a Smart Time to Buy a Condo in Toronto?

  • Yes—for many buyers, particularly first-timers—because prices are down (by over 5–6%) and supply is high, offering more choice and negotiating power. 

  • Condo listings, inventory, and competition are rising—tilting the balance in buyers' favour. 

  • Several sources confirm today’s market is a buyer’s opportunity, not a seller's advantage. 

4. Are Condo Prices in Toronto Dropping? Here’s the Reality

  • Yes, condo prices have declined: GTA average prices dropped about 5.9% year-over-year as of January 2025. 

  • Months of inventory doubled, signaling slowing demand—6.72 months vs. just 3.56 a year earlier. 

  • Days on Market at a 15-year high—average listing now takes 82 days to sell. 

5. Choosing the Nicest Condo Building: Quality Over Hype

  • Consider standout buildings that blend design, amenities, and location:

    • Four Seasons Hotel & Residences in Yorkville—ultra-luxury with hotel-style services and cachet. 

    • Ideal Lofts in Little Italy/Trinity-Bellwoods—a soft-loft, heritage-inspired gem with architectural acclaim. 

    • Ten York in the South Core—a modern landmark high-rise with bold design and skyline views. 

Final Summary

If you're looking for an affordable, low-maintenance, urban-entry into real estate, a condo can work—but only if it aligns with your long-term plans, lifestyle preferences, and financial readiness. With falling prices and rising inventory, now might just be the right moment—but do more than window-shop. Crunch the numbers, weigh the rules and fees, and commit for the long haul.

Facts Q&A

Is it a good idea to buy a condo in Toronto now?
Yes—for qualified buyers seeking accessible entry into homeownership, this is a favorable window. Prices are down (~5–6%) and inventory is high, empowering buyers with choice and leverage. 

Are condo prices dropping in Toronto?
Yes—average GTA condo prices have fallen nearly 6% year-over-year, with longer days on market and increased inventory. 

How much does an average condo cost in Toronto?
As of mid-2024, the average sale price for a condo in Toronto proper was approximately $717,210. 

What is the nicest condo building in Toronto?
Top contenders include:

  • Four Seasons Hotel & Residences Toronto (Yorkville)—high-end amenities and premium services. 

  • Ideal Lofts in Little Italy—architecturally celebrated, boutique soft-loft style. 

  • Ten York in South Core—a striking modern high-rise with urban flair.

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The Fastest Way to Spot the Best GTA Listings

In the bustling and competitive Greater Toronto Area (GTA) real estate market, timing is everything. Discovering prime listings before everyone else can feel like a superpower. But with the right tools, strategies, and mindset, you'll consistently get the jump on your dream home.

1. Leverage Niche Real-Estate Platforms

  • Use HomesFound.ca for real-time MLS updates, advanced filtering, and broad GTA coverage.

  • Visit HouseSigma.com for historical sold-price data and market insights—particularly helpful in Toronto and Mississauga.

  • Supplement your search with TorontoMLS.net—a GTA-specific MLS platform offering deep listing detail.

  • Start with HomesFound.ca for breadth, then narrow with HouseSigma or TorontoMLS.net for depth.

2. Use Real-Time Alerts & Multi-Site Monitoring

  • Set up instant alerts across multiple listing platforms to catch new properties faster.

  • Reddit users recommend syncing platforms like Zolo, Redfin, and HomeOptima, each with strengths in update speed or interface:

    “I’ve found Redfin updates the fastest… and Zolo has the best user interface and the easiest to read past listing.” 

3. Prioritize Listings by Market Momentum

  • Focus on listings in neighbourhoods where supply is rising but demand is still building—like parts of North York, Scarborough, and Durham Region.

  • Track key indicators daily: average price shifts, new vs. sold listings, and market trends for early-mover opportunities.

4. Understand Market Conditions & Timing

  • July 2025 saw GTA listings surge and prices dip—creating a buyer’s market. Benchmark prices fell 5.4% year-over-year to ~$981K.

  • Sales volume also leaped in July—the best July performance since 2021—even as price trends continued downward.

5. Partner with Savvy Realtors & Stay Agile

  • A realtor with local intel can unlock off-market, pre-MLS, or coming-soon listings.

  • Be pre-approved and ready to act fast—given today’s inventory levels, swift decisions are rewarded.

Final Summary

In the GTA's fast-moving real estate landscape, the fastest way to spot the best listings is to use niche platforms like HomesFound, HouseSigma, and TorontoMLS.net—paired with cross-platform alerts, trend awareness, and a well-connected agent. Your speed, backed by strategy, is what wins the deal.

Google Snippets Q&A

Are GTA house prices dropping?
Yes. As of July 2025, GTA benchmark home prices have declined about 5% year-over-year—with the benchmark around C$981,000.

Can I invest $5,000 in real estate?
Yes. You can start with REITs (from ~$1,000) or Real Estate Investment Groups (REIGs) (starting around $5,000) to pool into commercial or residential properties. You might also consider private REITs or mortgage-investment vehicles with similar entry points.

Is it a good time to buy a house in Toronto?
For many buyers—especially first-timers—the answer is yes. Inventory is rising, prices are easing, and competition is lower. 2025 may offer one of the most favorable windows in years.


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How to Find Your Dream Home in Toronto Before Others Do

In Toronto’s competitive real estate market, acting fast and strategically is key to landing your dream home before someone else does. By combining tech tools, local insights, and sharp preparation, you can be both proactive and decisive. Here’s a refined, human-focused guide that builds on the best tactics out there—while offering clarity, personality, and SEO polish.

1. Monitor New Listings Like a Hawk

  • Use tools like Zolo and TRREB’s MLS® alerts to get real-time notifications of fresh properties.

  • Tap into specialized search platforms (like Yolevski’s real estate search tool) that offer hyper-custom filters and daily updates.

2. Build Your Squad: A Realtor & Your Network

  • Partner with a dentist's-in-the-know agent who’s embedded in your fav neighbourhood—they can flag unlisted or coming-soon homes.

  • Let friends, colleagues, and even social media know you’re house-hunting—word-of-mouth still works wonders.

3. Be Pre-Approved and Prepped to Pounce

  • Get mortgage pre-approval. In today’s market, you may need an annual income of $232,000 to afford an average-priced home (~$1,061,900)—or higher depending on property type and down payment.

  • Know your budget, have your down payment ready, and nail your must-have list before you browse listings.

4. Learn to Read Between the Lines

  • Keep a checklist of red flags: staging that hides flaws, awkward layouts, hidden issues—don’t let surface charm distract you.

  • Focus on lighting, location, and layout—three foundational elements that stand the test of time.

5. Strike when the Moment is Right

  • Watch for when listing volume spikes but demand dips—that’s when you have leverage. As of July 2025, the Toronto market showed more supply than demand, signaling a slight shift toward buyers.

  • In early 2025, home sales rose ~10% in January, while prices held steady—with projections for moderate increases in sales (+12.4%) and prices (+2.6%) in 2025.

Final summary
In Toronto’s fast-moving real estate arena, getting ahead means combining tech-enabled alerts, strong realtor connections, financial readiness, attention to home fundamentals, and timing your move when supply lines shift in your favour. Armed with this multi-pronged approach, you’re not just seeing homes sooner—you’re making smart, confident moves to secure the one that’s meant for you.

Where is the best place to buy a house in Toronto?
Great neighbourhoods frequently cited include Riverdale (family-friendly charm), Rosedale–Moore Park (heritage elegance), and Distillery District (artsy loft vibes). The "best place" depends on your lifestyle priorities—commute, schools, character, or resale potential.

What salary do you need to buy a home in Toronto?
To afford a detached home—based on average prices around $1.36 million—you’d need an annual household income of approximately $269,000. If you're targeting condos ($683K), you’d need closer to $137,000. Another source estimates around $232,000 for the average-priced home ($1.06M).

What is the average price of a house in Toronto?
As of June 2025, the average resale home price sat around $995,100, down ~5.5% year-over-year. Specifically, single-family homes averaged about $1,216,000, townhouses $739,500, and condos $585,100. The median detached home price in Q2 was $1,225,000.

What is the housing market forecast for Toronto in 2025?
Listings have grown, tilting the market slightly toward buyers. Prices are expected to fall modestly—CMHC forecasts a ~2% dip in 2025, especially in Ontario and BC. TRREB expects prices to rise by ~2.6%, while home sales may grow by ~12.4% in 2025. RBC and other analysts foresee declines in H2 2025 as well.

What is the cheapest place to live in Canada?
Based on recent data, some of the most affordable cities include:

  • Thunder Bay, ON, Saint John, NB, and Red Deer, AB Forbes.

  • Other extremely low-cost towns: Thetford Mines, Quebec (avg home $299K), Edmundston, NB ($234K), Rivière-du-Loup, QC ($277K), and Tracadie, NB ($173K)

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⏱️ Timing Is Everything — Especially in the First 5 Days

In real estate, timing is everything. And when you put your home on the market, the first five days are critical. That’s when you get the most eyes, the most showings, and your best shot at top dollar.

Miss that window, and your listing starts to go stale.

When a buyer walks through the front door, they make a decision within seconds. It’s not just about features — it’s about the feeling.

Does it feel clean? Bright? Well-kept? Or does it feel like a project? If it’s the latter, you’re in trouble.

If the space doesn’t click right away, they move on. That “gut feeling” is real — and you only get one shot at it. A big mistake sellers make right now? Overpricing just to “leave room to negotiate.” That strategy doesn’t work in this market.

If you’re $50K over what the home is actually worth, most serious buyers won’t even bother booking a showing. The longer you sit, the more people start wondering what’s wrong with the place — and your leverage disappears.

Price it right from the start, based on current comps, and you’ll get stronger interest and possibly multiple offers. Price it wrong, and you’ll be doing price reductions later.


This isn’t the time for shortcuts. The house needs to be spotless — and not just “clean,” but showroom ready. That means:

  • No clutter

  • No weird smells

  • No half-finished projects

  • No scuffed-up walls or broken handles

If something makes a buyer pause or raises questions, they move on to the next one. Buyers don’t want surprises. They don’t want to wonder if the furnace is on its last leg or if the roof has issues. Your job is to remove doubt before they even ask.

Fix what’s broken. Service the major stuff. Leave no question marks behind. A clean, transparent listing builds trust — and trust leads to offers.

If you're serious about selling, treat your listing like a product launch. First impressions, proper pricing, and flawless presentation aren’t optional — they’re the baseline.

Ready to Make Your Listing Count?

Want help getting your home market-ready? Let’s talk. I’ll walk you through exactly what needs to happen to make sure your listing hits strong from day one.


Jeff Carr

Sales Representative

Re/Max Plus City Team, Brokerage

14B Harbour Street

Toronto, ON, M5J 2Y4

📞 (416) 605-2814

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Selling in 2025? Don’t Just List It And Hope For The Best🤞

Let’s be honest: This market isn’t for the faint of heart. Properties are sitting longer. Offers aren’t flying in the way they did a year ago. And those record-breaking sale prices? They’re starting to feel like distant memories.

 

If you're selling right now (or thinking about it), the question isn't "Should I list?" — it's "Who am I trusting to guide me through this?"

 

Because trust me, not all agents are created equal.

 

There are a lot of agents out there — and while most have professional headshots and polished bios, not all are putting in the work behind the scenes.

 

In this market, you need someone proactive. Someone who understands that marketing a listing isn't just uploading it to MLS and hoping for the best. Someone who follows up. Someone who communicates. Someone who gives a damn.

 
 
 

 

Real-World Example #1: No Lockbox, No Entry

 

 

Recently, I showed a condo unit and was paged with lockbox instructions.One problem: the building had removed lockboxes weeks ago. I showed up with a client, couldn’t get in, and called/texted/emailed the listing agent — crickets.

 

Luckily, the tenant was home and let us in.

 

The kicker? The listing agent got back to me five days later asking for feedback.

 

 
How is this poor seller ever going to sell the property if buyers can’t even get in — and their agent isn’t returning calls?
 
 
 

Real-World Example #2: 750 Sq. Ft. Listing… Says It’s 499?

 

It’s shocking how many listings fudge the details — or skip them altogether. I’ve come across multiple condos clearly over 700 sq. ft., but the listing says 400–499. That’s misleading to buyers and leaves a bad impression.

 
That small error in square footage? It’s costing the seller both time and money.
 
 
 

Real-World Example #3: Renovated… but untold

 

I recently showed a buyer a condo that had been beautifully renovated — brand new kitchen, upgraded flooring, fresh bathrooms, the works. But the listing? Nothing mentioned.

 

The agent didn’t highlight any of the features and couldn’t answer basic questions my buyer had.

 
This wasn’t just a missed opportunity — It left the buyer doubting what else might’ve been overlooked.
 
 
 

Real-World Example#4: Hello? Anybody There?

 

I’ve shown 20 properties in the last two weeks. Guess how many listing agents called me afterward for feedback?

 

One. Just one.

 

In a buyer’s market, every piece of feedback matters. If your agent isn’t gathering intel from showings, how are they adapting the strategy?

 

 
 
 
 
 
 

4 Questions to Ask Before You Hire an Agent

 

 

Whether you’re buying or selling, don’t just go with the first agent who answers the phone. Interview them. Dig deep. Here are some essential questions to ask:

 

 
  1. How many deals do you do in a year?Experience counts — especially now.

  2. What’s your marketing strategy for my property?Are they just promoting themselves? Or actually promoting your listing?

  3. What’s your listing plan of action?Day 1 to Day 30 — what happens, when, and why?

  4. What’s the current market data say?A good agent will show you the numbers — and explain them clearly.


 
 
 

In this market, strategy is everything. The right agent will help you pivot, problem-solve, and position your home to sell — not just stick a sign on the lawn and hope.

 

Ask better questions. Expect better answers. And make sure your agent is as invested in your success as you are.

 

 

Have questions or ready to take the next step?

 

 

Reach out to Neve Dowey at 647-292-3602 — happy to chat, no pressure. Sometimes a quick conversation can save you weeks of second-guessing.


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Price High, Say Bye: Why Strategy Sells 💯

Let’s be real — we all want to get the most out of our property. That’s fair. But in today’s market, especially in downtown Toronto, trying to squeeze every last dollar can backfire. Fast.

 

Here’s the thing: real estate isn’t about chasing the market — it’s about leading it.

 

 

We’re not in 2021 anymore. Buyers are more cautious, interest rates are top of mind, and there are plenty of listings to choose from. Price your unit too high out of the gate, and it’ll sit. People scroll right past it — and when that happens, it’s a tough first impression to undo.

 
 

What happens next? Price reductions. Fewer showings. Less leverage. And ironically, a lower final sale price than if it was positioned right from day one.

 
 
 

There’s a big difference between an agent who nods along to keep you happy and one who has the guts to tell you the truth — even when it’s uncomfortable.

 
A great agent isn’t there to flatter you. They’re there to help you win.
 

And winning, especially in a shifting market, means looking at the numbers, understanding the psychology of today’s buyers, and crafting a strategy that gets your property sold — not stuck.

 
It’s not just about the price. It’s about the full package.
 

Professional photography, well-written descriptions, data-backed pricing, timing, and knowing how to create urgency without sounding desperate. That’s what a professional brings to the table. And when done right, it makes your property the one to watch — not the one collecting dust on the MLS.

 

 

At the end of the day, buyers will pay for value — but they need to see it first. A pro agent will help position your property so that the value is obvious, the presentation is sharp, and the price aligns with what the market is willing to pay right now.

 

Not last month. Not last year. Now.

 
It’s easy to think that listing high gives you room to negotiate. But more often than not, it just gives you more time to wait. And waiting? It costs money.
 

Work with someone who knows how to move the needle. Someone who brings value, strategy, and honesty to the table — not just a ‘yes’ to keep the listing. Because in this market? Leading beats following. Every time.

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When it comes to real estate, myths spread faster than a hot listing in a prime location. Some of these misconceptions can lead to poor decisions, unnecessary stress, or missed opportunities. Let’s debunk some of the most common real estate myths once and for all.

 

 

1. Spring Is Always the Best Time to Buy or Sell

 

 

Spring is a busy season for real estate, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best time for everyone. Market conditions, interest rates, and inventory levels play a bigger role than the season itself. The right time depends on your specific needs and market trends in your area.

 

 

2. You Need a 20% Down Payment to Buy a Home

 

 

A 20% down payment can help avoid mortgage insurance, but it’s not a requirement. Many lenders offer mortgage options with lower down payments, making homeownership accessible to more buyers. It’s always best to explore financing options before assuming you need to save a large lump sum.

 

 

3. You Should Always Offer Below the Asking Price

 

 

Some buyers believe that making a low offer is the best way to negotiate a deal, but that’s not always the case. In competitive markets, a low offer can result in losing out to other buyers. The best strategy depends on market conditions, demand, and seller motivation.

 

 

4. Renting Is a Waste of Money

 

 

While owning a home is a long-term goal for many, renting isn’t necessarily a bad financial decision. It offers flexibility, fewer maintenance responsibilities, and can be a smart choice depending on location and financial goals. Buying isn’t the right move for everyone at every stage of life.

 

 

5. The Asking Price Is What a Home Is Worth

 

 

The list price is a starting point—it doesn’t always reflect the actual market value. A property’s true worth is determined by factors like location, comparable sales, condition, and buyer demand. That’s why proper research and professional guidance are key.

 

 

The Bottom Line

 

 

Real estate decisions should be based on facts, not myths. Whether you're buying, selling, or renting, working with knowledgeable professionals and staying informed about market trends will help you make the best choices.

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This website may only be used by consumers that have a bona fide interest in the purchase, sale, or lease of real estate of the type being offered via the website. The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of the PropTx MLS®. The data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate.