Real Estate

Condo Market Check-In: Are We at the Bottom? So how’s the market doing, you might ask? I recently pulled some stats for a client that I thought were too interesting not to share with you. And just to be clear — we’re talking condo apartments only here (no houses, no townhomes). The Big Picture That’s a 6% drop so far this year. 2025 Month-by-Month What’s unusual? Even though prices started rising after July, the average days on market actually increased to 40 days in September. Normally, you’d expect faster sales as prices climb — but not this time. Sales Volume So… was July the bottom of the condo market? Maybe. Only time (and October’s numbers) will tell. (If you’d like to view the charts we used for this data, please reach out to me) Rent vs. Buy: Time to Rethink? With prices this low, more renters are starting to ask: Why am I paying so much rent when I could own? Let’s break it down: (Remember — property taxes and maintenance fees are extra in all of the above examples.) But if you’re already paying $2,300+ in rent, it may be time to consider whether that money could be better spent paying down your own mortgage instead of someone else’s. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to buy a condo, consider this it. The deals are out there. The question is, are you ready to grab one? We’re Toronto Real Estate expert Realtors and we’d love to help you. We just listed a fabulous suite in Yorkville that I’m so excited about! It’s a fully renovated one-bedroom with a bathroom, parking, and locker at 40 Scollard, right across from the Four Seasons Hotel. Imagine being steps from some of my favourite restaurants—Trattoria Nervosa, The Oxley, Kasa Moto, Sassafraz, Bar Reyna…the list goes on. If you or someone you know has been dreaming about the Yorkville lifestyle, this might be the perfect fit.

Canadians are tightening their wallets, and it’s showing up everywhere—from grocery aisles to restaurant tables and even in the Toronto condo market. Recent consumer spending data reveals that people are cutting back on travel, entertainment, and dining out while paying closer attention to deals, loyalty programs, and ways to save on everyday purchases. At the same time, condo buyers are facing rising maintenance fees and shifting price trends. Here’s a closer look at how Canadians are spending (or not spending) their money, and what it means if you’re thinking about buying a condo in Toronto. How Canadians Are Spending Their Money (Or Not) Lately, the question on everyone’s mind isn’t how Canadians are spending their money, but where they’re choosing not to. Consumer spending data from Moneris & Angus Reid Group—pulled from Apple Pay, Google Pay, and credit card transactions—shows a clear shift in our priorities. Pulling Back on Fun, Spending on Comfort Spending on travel and entertainment is down, while dollars going toward home, wellness, and personal support are up. Even eating out has taken a hit. According to OpenTable, restaurant bookings are down 3%. Three-quarters of Canadians are dining out less often, and when they do, many are cutting back on extras like appetizers or that second glass of wine. Grocery Shopping Gets a Makeover Nearly 9 out of 10 Canadians (89%) have changed their grocery shopping habits just in the last month. How? And brand loyalty? That’s out the window. Over half of Canadians have switched brands in at least one category to save money: The takeaway: Canadians are becoming more deliberate and cost-conscious about where their money goes. What This Means for the Condo Market The belt-tightening isn’t just visible in grocery aisles or restaurants—it’s showing up in Toronto’s condo market too. We’re seeing more caution, fewer showings, and slower offers. And prices dipping below $1,000 per sq. ft. are no longer rare. On top of that, maintenance fees have become a major factor. What used to average between $0.65 and $0.75 per sq. ft. has now crept up over $1.00 per sq. ft. in many buildings, with some as high as $1.20. Inflation, combined with the aftershocks of COVID, has put a serious strain on condo boards’ budgets. How to Keep Condo Fees in Check If you’re shopping for a condo and want to avoid sky-high fees, here are a few things to keep in mind: Spend Smart, Live Well From grocery carts to condo boards, Canadians are learning to spend more carefully. If you’re thinking about making a move, I’d love to help you find a home that makes sense for your lifestyle and your wallet. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to step off the sidelines, consider this it. The deals are out there. The question is, are you ready to grab one? We’re Toronto Real Estate expert Realtors and we’d love to help you. We just listed a fabulous suite in Yorkville that I’m so excited about! It’s a fully renovated one-bedroom with a bathroom, parking, and locker at 40 Scollard, right across from the Four Seasons Hotel. Imagine being steps from some of my favourite restaurants—Trattoria Nervosa, The Oxley, Kasa Moto, Sassafraz, Bar Reyna…the list goes on. If you or someone you know has been dreaming about the Yorkville lifestyle, this might be the perfect fit.

If you’ve been half-watching the Toronto market while waiting for a bell to ring at the “bottom,” here’s your reminder: nobody rings it. The only thing you get in real time is opportunity, and right now, the signs are getting louder. What September’s Numbers Say (and why they matter) Meanwhile, condos remain the most pressured segment. Multiple analyses show condo values have lagged other property types this year as new supply and investor fatigue weigh on pricing, particularly in Toronto’s core. For end-users, that is exactly where better buys are showing up. Ground Truth From the Trenches On the ground, more buyers are raising their hands. Not a stampede, but intent is real, especially among people who have been pre-approved, watching for a softer entry point, and finally seeing it. What This Means If You’re Buying You have leverage and options. Inventory remains elevated versus last year, and sellers are negotiating on price, timing, and conditions. In a hot market you win a new fridge; in this one, you can win equity. If you’re condo-curious, the spread between list and sold is widest where supply is deepest. Pair that with today’s slightly better affordability from the recent rate cut and you have a rare window to buy well, not just buy now. Smart next steps: What This Means If You’re Selling Strategy beats vibes. With buyers selectively back, the winners are the listings that show flawlessly and are priced to the market that exists, not the one you wish we had. Expect more scrutiny on comps, carrying costs, and building health for condos. Smart next steps: The Bottom Line No, this does not mean prices are off to the races. Benchmark values are still down year over year, and nobody gets a notarized “today is the bottom” memo. But sales are up, new listings are growing more slowly, and a slight monthly price uptick together signal a market that is starting to tighten at the margins, even as condos remain the most negotiable lane. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to step off the sidelines, consider this it. The deals are out there. The question is, are you ready to grab one? We’re Toronto Real Estate expert Realtors and we’d love to help you. We just listed a fabulous suite in Yorkville that I’m so excited about! It’s a fully renovated one-bedroom with a bathroom, parking, and locker at 40 Scollard, right across from the Four Seasons Hotel. Imagine being steps from some of my favourite restaurants—Trattoria Nervosa, The Oxley, Kasa Moto, Sassafraz, Bar Reyna…the list goes on. If you or someone you know has been dreaming about the Yorkville lifestyle, this might be the perfect fit.

If you’ve been keeping one eye on the Toronto condo market while nervously waiting for the “perfect” moment to jump in, we need to talk. You know the feeling. You read the headlines, see the inventory, but a little voice asks, “Is this really the bottom? What if I buy now and prices drop more?” Let’s be real: that hesitation is completely normal. In fact, it’s what almost every buyer is feeling right now. But here’s the truth nobody ever tells you: Nobody rings a bell at the bottom of the market. You will never get a 100% guaranteed, signed-and-sealed signal that today is the absolute lowest point. The “bottom” is only ever visible in the rearview mirror. So, if you’re waiting for that, you might be waiting forever. What you can act on is opportunity. And right now, for condo buyers, the opportunity is significant. What “Buyer’s Market” Really Means for You You’ve heard the term, but let’s break down what a true buyer’s market actually looks like on the ground: “But You’re Just a Realtor Trying to Sell Me Something…” I get it. I know that’s what some of you are thinking. And you’re not wrong to be skeptical! But from my perspective, in the trenches of the Toronto real estate market every single day, I’m not just seeing spreadsheets and graphs. I’m seeing real people getting real deals. I’m seeing the relief and excitement on a buyer’s face when we secure a fantastic condo at a price that seemed impossible a year ago. This isn’t about pushing a sale; it’s about recognizing a clear window of opportunity and pointing it out to the people who have been patiently waiting for it. So, if you’ve been looking and waiting for a sign… consider this it. This is your sign that it’s okay to stop waiting on the sidelines. This is your sign that the power has shifted, and it’s time to explore what’s possible. The deals are out there. The question is, are you ready to grab one? If you’ve been thinking about buying a condo in Toronto, let’s have a no-obligation conversation about what’s possible in today’s market.

What’s Behind Build Canada Homes? When the government first announced Build Canada Homes, many of us who live or work in real estate were a bit wary. Public projects have a reputation for getting stuck in paperwork, and we’re no strangers to that. That initial skepticism is understandable. The core idea is simple: use surplus federal land and team up with private developers to deliver thousands of affordable homes. By turning government land into productive housing and letting experienced builders handle the construction, the plan aims to keep costs down and speed up delivery. From “Government Builder” to “Government Partner” In the past, the government would either build homes itself or hand out subsidies. Both routes have their flaws: direct construction can be slow, and subsidies often fail to mobilize enough supply. Build Canada Homes flips that model. It creates a public‑private partnership (PPP) that lets developers bring expertise, financing, and local know‑how while the government supplies land and oversight. This partnership model is something many countries already use successfully, and Canada’s move to it marks a shift toward a more collaborative approach. Why Partnering with Developers Matters The biggest relief in the announcement was the emphasis on partnership. By working with private developers, the government can reduce bureaucracy and keep projects agile. The partnership also helps tailor housing to community needs, something a purely government‑run project might miss. Ana Bailão – The New CEO Steering the Ship A key element of the initiative’s promise is the appointment of Ana Bailão as CEO. Bailão brings a strong background in development; she most recently led projects for Dreams, a well‑known Canadian developer. Her experience in both the private sector and public‑sector housing programs (e.g., Housing Now, CreateTO) suggests she can navigate the complex mix of politics, financing, and construction that Build Canada Homes requires. Using Government Land to Cut Costs The real‑world advantage of the plan lies in the use of government land. By converting unused federal property into housing sites, the biggest cost hurdle – land acquisition – disappears. The federal government has set up a fund that pools public and private capital to bring these projects to life, helping keep per‑unit prices low while ensuring long‑term affordability. Risks and the Need for Accountability No big‑scale project is risk‑free. Canada’s own Metrolinx LRT saga reminds us that cost overruns and delays can happen. These lessons underline the importance of transparency, strong oversight, and clear accountability for Build Canada Homes to avoid becoming another costly, delayed endeavour. What to Expect If It Works If the partnership model delivers on its promises, we could see: Bottom Line: Fingers Crossed It’s natural to keep an eye on a government‑led construction initiative with a cautious eye. Yet Build Canada Homes’ strategy—leveraging government land, partnering with seasoned developers, and guided by Ana Bailão’s experience—creates a strong foundation for real progress. We’ll keep a close watch to see if this plan can avoid the pitfalls of past projects and actually bring more affordable homes to Canadians. In the meantime, the conversation should focus on transparency, responsibility, and partnership, all of which are crucial to turning this ambitious vision into affordable housing. Thinking of buying or selling a home? Let’s talk. We’ll negotiate the best possible outcome for you, one smart move at a time.

After more than 30 years in Midtown, I can honestly say there’s a lot to love. This neighbourhood has shaped my lifestyle, my career, and even my daily routines — so narrowing it down is no easy feat. But here are a few of my favourite things. The Beltline Trail My first true Midtown love is the Kay Gardiner Beltline Trail — hands down one of the best treasures our neighbourhood has to offer. It’s where I first pushed myself to run farther and farther, training for half- and full-marathons with the Running Room. What I love most is the quiet camaraderie between runners. There’s something special about the nod, wave, or “good morning” you get as you pass someone else on the trail. (Funny enough, it’s almost always the runners who acknowledge each other, not the walkers.) The Beltline also connects to so many other green spaces — Moore Park Ravine, Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Don River Trail, Sunnybrook, and Wilket Creek. It’s a reminder that even in the middle of the city, nature is never far away. Neshama Playground On my way to the trail, I’d often pass through Neshama Playground, tucked between Chaplin Crescent and Frobisher Avenue. It’s a popular spot for local families, and if you look closely, you’ll even find my name on a donor plaque from when I contributed to the park’s revitalization. It’s nice to know I’ve left a small mark on a place that brings joy to so many kids. Neighbourhood Markets On Tuesdays, you’ll find me at the Davisville Farmers’ Market in June Rowlands Park. It’s the perfect place to pick up fresh produce or grab something for dinner that night — and a great excuse to run into neighbours. Entertainment & Shopping One of the things I love most about Midtown is convenience. Having a movie theatre within walking distance means spontaneous movie nights with friends and family are always possible. And of course, a walk north on Yonge up to Sporting Life is my idea of retail therapy. Along the way, there are plenty of shops worth popping into, plus Indigo for my book and magazine fix. For laughs, nothing beats a night out at Absolute Comedy. Restaurants & Coffee Shops We are spoiled for choice when it comes to food. Some of my favourites within walking distance include The Keg (where my husband and I had our first date!), Oretta, Stock, Tabule, and Domaine MaMo. For coffee, I rotate between Rachel’s Coffee House, Aroma, and At Origin Coffee. And of course, Midtown is full of temptations: Midnight Cookie (those ice cream sandwiches are dangerous) and Padaria (their brigadeiros are little explosions of joy). Luckily, Fresh and Impact Kitchen are nearby to balance things out with healthier options. Fitness & Lifestyle Health and fitness are a big part of Midtown living. You’ll find me at F45, Club Pilates, and Centre Ring, where ex-boxer Wayne Bourque makes sure you leave every class feeling like you’ve gone ten rounds. Getting Around One of Midtown’s biggest perks is transit. Being close to the subway makes getting downtown quick and easy — at least when the TTC is cooperating. (As for the Eglinton LRT delays… I’ll save that rant for another time!) The Midtown Vibe There’s still so much more I could add — but that’s the thing about Midtown: it’s impossible to capture it all in one blog. This neighbourhood is constantly evolving, yet it’s always had the same spirit of community, convenience, and connection. And yes, I purposely left out all the construction. But that’s definitely a story for another day. Thinking of buying or selling in Midtown? Let’s talk. We’ll negotiate the best possible outcome for you, one smart move at a time.

This week, I want to dive into the power of negotiation. Whether it’s about who’s doing the dishes or choosing a restaurant with friends, negotiation is part of daily life. But in real estate? It’s an art form, with a few more players than you’d expect. The 4-Way Tug-of-War Real estate negotiations aren’t just between a buyer and a seller. There are actually four players at the table: Each of them may have different priorities, motivations, and negotiation styles. Sometimes, buyers don’t tell their agents their true top dollar. Sellers might not share how low they’re really willing to go. And agents are often negotiating without full clarity on their client’s limits. That’s why putting offers on paper and signing back counteroffers is so powerful. It keeps the momentum going and brings people closer together, even when they start far apart. Why Paper Beats Talking Too often, agents try to shortcut the process by asking for everyone’s “bottom line” up front. But that misses a key human element: the more back-and-forth there is, the more emotionally invested the parties become. The negotiation itself builds commitment. We recently had a perfect example of this. We represented a seller and received an offer from a buyer claiming it was their final number. Instead of walking away, we encouraged our seller to sign it back—at $50,000 more. To our surprise (and delight), they accepted! What was “final” changed once the dance of negotiation continued. In a slower market like this one, patience and persistence pay off. Deals may take longer, but they’re happening—especially when agents know how to keep the conversation alive. Thinking of buying or selling this Fall? Let’s talk strategy. We’ll negotiate the best possible outcome for you, one smart move at a time.