The latest market watch TRREB report for May 2026 paints a different picture than many expected at the start of the year. While home prices remain below last year’s levels, buyer activity is increasing, inventory is tightening, and the market is becoming more competitive.

For buyers, there are still opportunities to negotiate and secure value. For sellers, reduced competition and stronger demand are creating a more favorable environment.

The market is no longer slowing down. Instead, it is finding its footing.

Buyers Are Returning as Sales Continue to Grow

The most notable trend in this month’s market watch TRREB report is the increase in home sales across the GTA.

• 6,583 homes sold, up 6.3% year over year
• Sales increased by 388 transactions compared to May 2025
• Buyer confidence continues to improve despite economic uncertainty

This is significant because buyer activity is increasing while the number of available homes is declining.

As more buyers enter the market, competition is beginning to strengthen in many neighbourhoods, particularly for well-priced properties.

Fewer Listings Are Giving Sellers an Advantage

Inventory levels moved in the opposite direction.

• 17,698 new listings, down 18.9% year over year
• 26,927 active listings, down 13.3% year over year

These are substantial declines.

Last year, buyers had considerably more choice. Today, that selection is shrinking.

When fewer homeowners list their properties while more buyers enter the market, supply begins to tighten. This often creates stronger negotiating positions for sellers and can place upward pressure on pricing over time.

For homeowners who have been waiting for less competition, this trend is worth watching closely.

Home Prices Remain Below Last Year’s Levels

Pricing continues to present opportunities for buyers.

According to the latest market watch TRREB data:

• Average GTA home price: $1,069,700
• Average price change: -4.6% year over year
• Median GTA home price: $910,000

While prices remain below May 2025 levels, the market is showing signs of stabilization.

Rather than experiencing rapid price corrections, the market is moving through a period of adjustment where buyers and sellers are finding common ground.

This balanced environment can benefit both sides.

Buyers gain access to pricing that remains more affordable than previous peaks, while sellers benefit from growing demand and fewer competing listings.

Homes Are Taking Slightly Longer to Sell

Another trend highlighted in this month’s report is the increase in marketing time.

• Average days on market: 27 days, up 8.0%
• Average property days on market: 42 days, up 7.7%

Although homes are taking slightly longer to sell compared to last year, these timelines remain healthy by historical standards.

For buyers, this means:

• More time to review options
• Better opportunities to conduct due diligence
• Increased ability to negotiate terms and conditions

For sellers, proper pricing and marketing remain essential. Well-presented homes continue to attract strong interest despite longer average timelines.

York Region Continues to Show Strength

York Region remains one of the GTA’s most active and valuable real estate markets.

May 2026 highlights include:

• York Region: 1,183 sales with an average price of $1,177,330
• Richmond Hill: Average price of $1,209,257
• Vaughan: Average price of $1,179,718
• Markham: Average price of $1,199,667
• King: Average price of $1,815,404
• Aurora: Average price of $1,181,220

These communities continue to attract buyers seeking larger homes, strong schools, convenient transportation access, and long-term growth potential.

Meanwhile, Toronto recorded 2,377 sales with an average home price of $1,108,292, remaining the GTA’s largest and most active market.

What This Means for Buyers

The current market watch TRREB report presents several advantages for buyers.

• Prices remain lower than last year
• Inventory is still relatively healthy compared to historical norms
• Financing and inspection conditions remain common in many transactions
• More negotiating opportunities exist than during previous seller’s markets

However, the declining inventory trend suggests that waiting too long could mean facing more competition later in the year.

What This Means for Sellers

Sellers are beginning to see conditions move in their favor.

• Buyer activity is increasing
• New listings are declining significantly
• Active inventory is shrinking
• Competition from other sellers is decreasing

Properties that are priced correctly and marketed effectively are well-positioned to attract serious buyers.

For many homeowners, this could be one of the strongest selling environments we’ve seen since the market correction began.

Why Strategy Matters More Than Ever

The May 2026 market watch TRREB report shows a market transitioning toward balance.

Buyers still have opportunities to secure value. Sellers are benefiting from strengthening demand and reduced competition. Both sides can succeed, but strategy is becoming increasingly important.

Understanding local market conditions, pricing accurately, and acting at the right time can make a significant difference in your results.

Thinking About Buying or Selling?

The Daryl King Team helps buyers, sellers, and investors navigate changing market conditions with confidence.

Whether you’re planning a move this year or simply exploring your options, we’re here to help you understand what today’s market means for your goals.

• Speak with our team about your next move
• Stay informed with our latest market updates

The right strategy today could create your next opportunity tomorrow.