As we step into a pivotal moment for Toronto’s housing market, it’s essential for both buyers and sellers to understand the current dynamics and prepare for the upcoming changes. A recent report from the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) provides valuable insights, indicating that we might be nearing the ‘bottom’ of housing prices in Toronto this spring. This signals a crucial turning point, especially after a period of declining prices that began in the spring of 2022.

The Light at the End of the Tunnel

The RBC report, authored by economist Robert Hogue, highlights January as the second consecutive month of increased residential transactions across major Canadian markets. This uptick suggests that the downturn, which has affected many since last spring, may finally be coming to an end. A combination of decreased interest rates for fixed-rate mortgages since November and the anticipation of a rate cut by the Bank of Canada has started to restore confidence, albeit slowly, among potential buyers.

What This Means for Buyers

For those looking to purchase a home, the current climate presents a unique opportunity. The anticipated bottoming out of prices could mean that the coming months offer the best value for investment before a gradual recovery. However, it’s important to note that a more “vigorous and sustained” recovery is not expected until interest rates fall further, likely in the latter half of 2024. This period of stabilization might be the window you were waiting for to make a move.

Sellers’ Perspective

Sellers might find relief in knowing that there hasn’t been a significant spike in listings due to higher borrowing costs, which has, in turn, tightened demand-supply conditions. While new listings have been on the weaker side, this has inadvertently supported the market from experiencing a drastic dip. However, with prices expected to gradually recover over the second half of 2024, deciding when to list could be key to maximizing return on investment.

The Toronto Scenario

In Toronto, after a peak in February 2022, the average selling price across all property types saw a decline, stabilizing somewhat after a burst of activity last spring. However, with six consecutive monthly price declines since July, totaling a 7.2 percent drop, the market is ripe for a turnaround. The RBC report anticipates that the spring will mark the lowest point for prices, with a gradual recovery to follow in the second half of the year.

Preparing for the Future

For buyers, this might be the right time to start preparing for a purchase, considering the potential for lower prices and interest rates in the near future. For sellers, understanding the timing and market dynamics will be crucial in deciding when to list your property to maximize its value.

Conclusion

The Toronto housing market is on the cusp of a significant shift. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, staying informed and strategically planning your next move will be key to navigating this changing landscape. As the market begins to stabilize, both buyers and sellers have unique opportunities to make the most of the current conditions before the anticipated upturn in prices. Keep an eye on the market, and consider consulting with a real estate professional to tailor your strategy to the evolving dynamics of Toronto’s housing market.