Author: Dave Merat

Ontario builders are facing some real challenges right now, with tariff disputes between Canada and the U.S. driving up home construction costs. Single homes are seeing an increase of $9,000–$14,000, while mid-rise units are being hit even harder, rising $18,000–$28,000. This isn't just about higher material costs—it ripples through jobs, impacts housing starts, and touches the affordability of homes across North America.

Having spent years helping families buy and sell homes across the GTA, I know how crucial every dollar is to my clients’ bottom line. Changes like these can affect more than just the builders—they can influence the market value and timing for buyers and sellers alike. My approach has always been about delivering more money in your pocket in less time, and that means staying on top of every shift in the industry. As your local expert and a proud resale residential specialist, I’m always ready to navigate these market changes—so you can make decisions with confidence, no matter what the headlines say.

The Ontario HST rebate continues to play a crucial role in supporting new home sales in our region. In the GTA, single-family new home sales reached 692 units—an impressive 47% above the 10-year average—while total new home sales stood at 907. Meanwhile, the benchmark price dropped 14.6% year-over-year, a signal that market opportunities and challenges are unfolding side by side. On the other hand, condo sales have slowed, falling 78% below average, largely due to recent changes in tax incentive limits.

These numbers highlight how government policy can shape the market, but also underscore the need for expert guidance. Having helped countless families navigate GTA real estate, I know how incentives and market shifts can impact your bottom line—whether selling or buying. My clients count on proven strategies to get more value in less time, no matter how the market moves. If you have questions about how these trends could affect your goals, let's connect and ensure you’re making informed decisions every step of the way.

We're seeing a noticeable shift in the Greater Toronto Area housing market: in August, only 2% of neighborhoods experienced overbidding, while a striking 79% of homes sold below asking price. For single-family and condo neighborhoods, the numbers are even more pronounced—95% and 98% respectively closed below asking, signaling less competition among buyers.

Having guided families through every kind of market in the GTA, I know firsthand how quickly the landscape can change. My proven home selling system is built to help clients navigate these shifts with confidence and achieve strong results, even when buyer demand cools. While most properties are taking longer to sell and often below asking, my clients continue to benefit from a 99.05% list-to-sell ratio and an average of just 11 days on the market—putting more money in their pockets, with less hassle.

In times like these, experience and a tailored strategy make all the difference. As always, I remain committed to helping you make informed, smart decisions—no matter which way the market moves.

860 Commissioners Unit #707, London South (South H), Ontario N6C2V5
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Staying informed on Ontario’s evolving regulations is essential for anyone considering a newly built home. Beginning January 1, 2027, the province will require that all new home purchase agreements be registered within 45 days. This new home warranty program aims to verify builder licenses and help protect buyers by identifying illegal sales. Importantly, deposit protection will still apply, even if a purchase is registered late or not at all.

Having helped so many families in the GTA secure their dream homes, I know how much peace of mind clear, protective policies bring during the buying process. My commitment has always been to guide clients confidently through every detail—especially as the landscape changes. If you’re exploring a pre-construction or newly built property, I’ll ensure you’re up-to-date on every new requirement. Integrity, attention, and proactive problem-solving are all part of my proven home selling system—so you can focus on what matters: your next chapter.

As someone who's dedicated years to helping families across the GTA navigate the ups and downs of our real estate market, I've seen firsthand how housing affordability has become a true crisis in Ontario. With home prices now over seven times the average annual income, it's clear that buying a home feels out of reach for so many. High taxes, mounting fees, and layers of regulation only push those dreams further away. Real change is needed—reforms like tax relief, faster approvals, updated building codes, and doing away with the land transfer tax could make a real difference in easing the path to homeownership. My approach has always been about creating solutions—making sure my clients move forward with more money in their pockets, less hassle, and the confidence that their biggest investment is protected. We all deserve a path to homeownership that isn’t blocked by unnecessary hurdles.