It has been a very interesting first quarter to say the least. Interest rates are holding steady, there’s an election coming, tariffs in the news… and yet the biggest thing I’m noticing? The change from area to area in terms of market acitivity and supply.
Core Neighbourhoods: Tight Supply & Competition
In areas like Westboro, Beacon Hill, Carson Grove, Glebe and central locations, there’s just not enough inventory in the freehold segment. Lots on the codo side. But with freeholds we’re seeing multiple offers — even ones with no conditions in some cases. Buyers in these multiples are not going way over to secure their homes but we are definately seeing stiff competition in the 700k-870k range
Head into the suburbs and it’s a whole other story. In some of these neighbourhoods, inventory is the highest it’s been in nearly a decade. Buyers have choice — and when then happens, they slow down. They take their time. They offer under asking, with conditions, and often want a deal.
Sellers: You Need to Stand Out
If you’re listing in a slower area, your home needs to pop. That means paint, staging, lighting, marketing — the full package. Buyers are picky right now, and they can afford to be. Price is also looking like a moving target. So it is important you find the right range off the hop to give yourself the best chance to sell.
In a market where buyers are being choosy and inventory is picking up, it’s more important than ever for your home to stand out. You don’t need a full HGTV-style overhaul—but thinking like a house flipper (even if you’re just selling your personal home) can mean more money in your pocket and fewer days on the market.
This is the moment to flip your own home—and we’re here to show you how.
Start with Strategic Renovations
You don’t have to gut the kitchen or tear down walls to make a big impact. Small updates can go a long way. Think: updated light fixtures, modern faucets, refreshed cabinetry (hello, new hardware!), and swapping out that tired old vanity in the powder room. Focus on areas where buyers’ eyes go first—kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. We have had clients paint their cabinets this year and the results were amazing. All of the stuff that we suggest would be at least a 5x return plus you would be able to sell your home faster.
Staging: Help Buyers See Themselves There
Staging isn’t just for vacant homes—it’s about creating a lifestyle that buyers can picture themselves stepping into. That might mean rearranging furniture, adding cozy layers, or swapping out personal items for a more neutral, magazine-ready vibe. We work with professional stagers who know exactly how to make a space shine. This is part of our value proposition!!
A Fresh Coat of Paint = Instant Refresh
There’s nothing like a fresh coat of paint to breathe new life into a space. Stick to warm, modern neutrals that photograph well and appeal to the widest audience. In some homes, we have our painter just freshen up some baseboards, while at other times it is more extensive. If you could only do one thing, painting is usually the best return on investment.
Don’t Forget the Outside
Curb appeal still matters. Trim the hedges, power wash the siding, and add a couple of fresh planters by the front door. If your mailbox has seen better days or your house numbers are falling off—those little details can make a big difference. Mulch in the front gardens can also make a huge difference!!
Clean Like You Mean It
A spotless home shows better, feels more cared for, and photographs beautifully. From baseboards to windows, it’s worth investing in a deep clean (and yes, we know amazing pros who can help).
We’ve Got You Covered
This all might sound like a lot—but the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. We’ve built an amazing network of painters, stagers, contractors, cleaners, and landscapers who we trust with our own homes. Whether you need help picking paint colours or someone to haul away old furniture, we’ve got the resources to make it happen.
We’re a few months into the year now, and it’s been a slower start than usual. Buyers have been sitting on the sidelines, hesitant to jump in—but with inventory levels in Ottawa reaching highs we haven’t seen in six or seven years, that could be about to change.
So, what’s driving this shift? A big factor is consumer confidence. With ongoing economic uncertainty, concerns about tariffs, and inflation making headlines, many buyers have been waiting things out. That said, homes are still selling—but not across the board.
What’s Moving in This Market?
Sales are down 10% nationally and 18% in Ottawa, and we’re seeing a clear trend: the homes that are priced right, presented well, and marketed properly are the ones attracting buyers. About 25% of listings are moving quickly, while the rest—especially in the luxury market over $1.5 million—are sitting longer.
For sellers, this means being strategic with pricing. This isn’t about underpricing to sell fast, but rather about aligning with the current market instead of aiming too high and hoping buyers negotiate down. Those well-priced homes? They’re still selling in a reasonable timeframe.
What Buyers Should Know
For buyers, this could be a great time to get into the market. With more listings coming up, you have more choice—and right now, you’re not facing the intense competition we’ve seen in previous years. If rates drop or major economic shifts happen, we could see buyer activity pick up fast, which could change the playing field again.
Where’s the Market Headed?
Right now, Ottawa is a balanced market, meaning it’s not heavily favoring buyers or sellers. Prices have remained stable, but with inflation ticking up again, interest rates could be affected. The next few months will be key in determining how the market adjusts.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling and want to know what’s happening in your neighborhood, reach out—We’re always happy to chat!
Ottawa’s real estate market started 2025 with shifting dynamics. While home sales dipped slightly, increased listings and a recent interest rate cut suggest a more active market ahead.
Market Overview
The Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) reported 617 homes sold in January, a 4.2% decrease from January 2024, and below the five and ten-year averages. However, buyer activity is picking up as more listings become available. Some homes are selling quickly, while others stay on the market longer, emphasizing the importance of competitive pricing and strong presentation.
Home Prices
The MLS Home Price Index (HPI) benchmark for January was $649,900, a 5.2% increase year-over-year.
Single-family homes: $713,000 (+2.3% YoY)
Townhouses/Row units: $448,000 (-3.9% YoY)
Apartments: $436,900 (+4.5% YoY)
The average sale price was $670,258, up 5.8% from last year, with total sales volume at $413.5 million (+1.3% YoY). OREB notes that price trends vary by neighborhood.
Inventory & Listings
1,359 new listings in January (+3.0% YoY) put inventory above five and ten-year averages.
Active listings reached 3,312 units, a 57.3% increase from January 2024.
Months of inventory rose to 5.4 months, up from 3.3 months a year ago.
What’s Next?
With stable interest rates and increased inventory, market activity is expected to grow. Economic factors, including U.S. tariffs and upcoming elections, could impact trends.
For buyers, this is a great time to explore options, while sellers should focus on pricing competitively to attract interest.
When it comes to selling a home, first impressions are everything. That’s why staging is one of the most powerful tools in our real estate playbook. A perfectly staged home doesn’t just look good—it tells a story, invites buyers in, and helps them envision their future in the space.
We recently had the opportunity to work on a condo that was completely vacant when we first listed it. While it had a great space and natural light, it lacked the warmth and personality that buyers are drawn to. That’s when we called in our expert stager, and the results were nothing short of remarkable.
Before: A Blank Canvas
When we first stepped into the condo, it was completely empty—just walls, floors, and windows. While some buyers can see past that, many struggle to picture how furniture will fit, how spaces flow, and how it will feel to live there. Empty rooms can also make a home feel cold and uninviting, making it harder for buyers to form an emotional connection.
After: A Standout Listing
The difference was night and day. Once staged, the condo no longer felt like an empty space—it felt like a dream home. The transformation not only enhanced its visual appeal but also made the listing photos pop, attracting more online views and interest from buyers.
And the best part? It worked. The staged condo quickly stood out in the market, leading to more showings and strong interest from potential buyers.
Why Staging Matters
Staging isn’t just about making a home look pretty—it’s about creating a connection. It helps buyers see the potential of a space and imagine themselves living there. In a competitive market, it can be the difference between a listing that lingers and one that sells quickly.
If you’re thinking about selling your home, don’t underestimate the power of staging. Whether it’s a condo, townhome, or single-family house, we have the resources and expertise to make your home shine.
Curious about what staging can do for your home? Let’s chat and make your property stand out!
The Trump tariffs have been a major topic over the past couple of weeks, but they’ve now been delayed by 30 days—which is great news for Ottawa homebuyers and sellers. These tariffs were expected to create some economic uncertainty, and when people feel uncertain, they tend to hold off on making big financial decisions—real estate included. So, this delay is definitely a positive sign for the market.
We came into 2024 with more momentum than we’ve had in previous years. Interest rates are lower, making homes more affordable for buyers, and prices are relatively stable. With those factors in play, it feels like we’re heading into a very active spring market in Ottawa.
One thing we’re still watching closely is inventory. I’m hoping we see more homes on the market this year than in past springs, but that’s still to be determined. What I do know is that demand is there—we’re already feeling it through phone calls, inquiries, and people starting to seriously think about their real estate plans.
What Does This Mean for Buyers?
If you’re thinking about buying, now might be the time to make a move before we hit peak spring competition. I expect more buyers will jump into the market, which could lead to increased competition and potentially push prices up.
Will We Shift to a Seller’s Market?
Right now, we’re in a more balanced market, which is a great place to be—it doesn’t heavily favour buyers or sellers, making negotiations fairer. But with Ottawa’s ongoing inventory challenges, we could see things shift again. Long-term, the city isn’t building fast enough to keep up with demand, and slow permit approvals plus high development fees are making it tough for builders, especially smaller ones.
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about buying or selling this year—or know someone who is—keep our team in mind. We’d love to help guide you through the process and make sure you’re in the best position, no matter what the market does next.
Thanks for reading, and as always, reach out if you have any questions!
Today, the Bank of Canada announced a 0.25% reduction in its benchmark interest rate, bringing it down to 3.0%. This decision primarily affects variable-rate mortgages, offering potential relief to current and prospective homeowners.
This rate cut is timely, as it is expected to stimulate increased activity in the housing market. Lower borrowing costs can encourage more buyers to enter the market, potentially leading to a real positive and competitive spring season. For sellers, this presents an excellent opportunity to list properties ahead of the anticipated surge in demand.
However, this adjustment occurs amidst looming trade uncertainties. President Trump has proposed imposing a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, set to take effect on February 1, 2025. These tariffs carry detrimental economic implications for the Canadian economy. While the proposed tariffs are a cause for concern, I have skepticism that anything will be changing on February 1st . I think that a solution will be found and we won’t have those tariffs in place
In light of these developments, the current environment presents a strategic window for both buyers and sellers in the real estate market. Taking advantage of the lower interest rates now could position individuals favourably before any potential economic shifts occur.
If you’re considering buying or selling a home, now is an opportune time to act. Our team is ready to guide you through the process, ensuring you make informed decisions in this dynamic market. Contact us today to get started.
This year will be an interesting one for the Stittsville Real Estate market. It will be shaped by local and national factors. With a potential federal election as early as April, a shift in government could lead to policy changes, including cost-cutting measures that might impact federal jobs and the housing market. On a positive note, there’s hope for progress in Ottawa’s slow building permit process, potentially setting the stage for future growth. Easing inflation and anticipated interest rate cuts could boost buyer demand, though economic uncertainty, including possible U.S. tariffs, remains a concern.
Stittsville is one of Ottawa’s most desirable neighborhoods, this is reflected in the premium that buyers have to pay when compared to other Ottawa suburbs. My expectation is that prices will rise in the 4-6% range this year. Quality of life and community are strong factors for many buyers and Stittsville remains at the top of the list for our out of town and military clients relocating here.
INTEREST RATES, INFLATION, AND THE ECONOMY
In 2024, the Bank of Canada (BoC) cut the policy rate from 5% in late 2023 to 3.25% by December to stimulate growth amid rising unemployment and economic uncertainties. The real estate market responded positively, with increased buyer activity and improved affordability. Inflation also declined, reaching 1.9% in November, down from 2.0% in October. Interestingly, Canada includes mortgage interest in its inflation calculation (one of the few countries to do so, alongside Iceland). This led to a counterintuitive effect where rate hikes aimed at reducing inflation actually kept it elevated. Looking ahead to 2025, the BoC is expected to lower rates further, with forecasts suggesting a policy rate of 2.25% by year-end. Inflation is projected to remain near the 2% target, supporting GDP growth of around 2% over the next two years.
Population Growth
Ottawa’s population has been experiencing steady growth in recent years. As of 2024, the city’s population is estimated at approximately 1,070,889, reflecting an annual growth rate of about 1.72% since 2016. Looking ahead, projections indicate that Ottawa’s population will continue to rise. The City of Ottawa anticipates an increase of approximately 402,000 residents from 2018 to 2046, bringing the total population to nearly 1.41 million by 2046. Our building department is not the best. This sustained population growth is expected to drive demand in the real estate market, influencing housing availability and pricing. As more individuals and families choose to make Ottawa their home, the city’s real estate landscape will continue to evolve, presenting both opportunities and challenges for buyers, sellers, and investors.
Keep an Eye Out for Our Military Letter!
Every year, we send out tens of thousands of letters to connect with homeowners who might be considering selling their property. These letters are a key part of our commitment to supporting military relocation. By working with us, sellers can explore the opportunity to match their home with one of the many military members moving into our area, ready to buy with our team.
If you’re thinking about selling and want to get ahead of the curve, don’t wait—reach out to us today!
Key factors and predictions for Ottawa’s housing market
This year is set to be a pivotal year for Ottawa’s real estate market, influenced by local and national factors. With a federal election on the horizon as early as April, a shift to a Conservative government could bring policy changes, including potentially cost cutting in our federal government. Any job losses will have a negative impact on the market. There is also hope that efforts will be made address Ottawa’s slow building permit process. While improvements in housing development may take time, these changes could lay the groundwork for future growth.
On the economic front, easing inflation and anticipated interest rate cuts—potentially two small reductions early in the year—are expected to boost buyer demand. However, economic uncertainty remains, with potential U.S. tariffs under Trump that could impact Canada’s economy.
For Ottawa real estate, low inventory and rising demand could be shaping things towards a slight seller’s market by Spring. Despite challenges like higher mortgage renewal rates, housing prices are predicted to increase by 4–6% this year. Buyers may find great opportunities early in the year, while sellers can expect good selling conditions throughout 2025. If you are planning to move its a great time to strategize and prepare for this dynamic market. Whether you’re planning a move soon or later this year, now is a great time to strategize and prepare for this dynamic market.
Inflation
In 2024, Canada’s inflation rate experienced a significant decline, reaching 1.9% in November, down from 2.0% in October.
In my opinion, the bank of Canada overreacted originally when they hiked rates too fast and now they are bringing them down quickly. Canada also includes mortgage interest in their inflation calculation (Iceland is only other country to do so). So when they were hiking rates to lower inflation the higher interest rates also kept inflation higher. I am no economist but that sounds counterintuitive.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Bank of Canada projects that inflation will remain near its 2% target, with forecasts suggesting a slight decrease of 0.2 percentage points, reflecting a lower assumed path for energy prices.
This anticipated stability in inflation is expected to support economic growth, with GDP projected to expand around 2% over 2025 and 2026.
Market Dynamics Across Ottawa
Ottawa’s real estate market in 2024 showcased diverse conditions depending on the area. Older neighbourhoods like Westboro, Glebe, and some central areas had high demand and limited supply giving sellers the upper hand. In some suburbs such as Barrhaven everything leaned toward a buyer’s market, thanks to abundant new construction that gave buyers more options and leverage. Meanwhile, areas like Kanata, Stittsville, and Orleans found a middle ground, achieving balanced market conditions with steady supply and demand driven by desirable amenities and a mix of housing options. These trends highlight the importance of understanding local dynamics to navigate Ottawa’s complex real estate landscape.
Population Growth
Ottawa’s population has been experiencing steady growth in recent years. As of 2024, the city’s population is estimated at approximately 1,451,570, reflecting a growth rate of 1% from 2023. Looking ahead, projections indicate that Ottawa’s population will continue to rise. The City of Ottawa anticipates an increase of approximately 238,540 residents from 2018 to 2035, bringing the total population to 1.6 million by 2035. Our building department is not the best. This sustained population growth is expected to drive demand in the real estate market, influencing housing availability and pricing. As more individuals and families choose to make Ottawa their home, the city’s real estate landscape will continue to evolve, presenting both opportunities and challenges for buyers, sellers, and investors.
BOC Policy Rate % Inflation Rate%
Interest Rate Changes
In 2024, the Bank of Canada (BoC) implemented a series of interest rate cuts, reducing the policy rate from 5% in late 2023 to 3.25% by December 2024. This monetary easing aimed to stimulate economic growth amid rising unemployment and global economic uncertainties. The real estate market responded positively, with increased buyer activity and a modest rise in home sales, as lower borrowing costs improved affordability. Looking ahead to 2025, the BoC is expected to continue its gradual approach to monetary policy, with forecasts suggesting the policy rate could reach approximately 2.25% by year-end.
PERSONAL NOTE
As I look back on this past year, I can’t help but feel a mix of pride and gratitude. This year marks 20 years since I started in real estate—a milestone that feels both surreal and humbling. I’ve been incredibly lucky to have so many of you trust me to help with one of the biggest decisions in your life. The real estate market has been a bit of a rollercoaster this year. Shifts in interest rates and changing buyer priorities kept us on our toes, but it was also a year filled with opportunities to help clients navigate these challenges and find homes they love. Our team accomplished so much together. From hosting client events and fundraisers to helping military families settle into new homes during HHTs, we focused on building strong relationships and making the process as smooth as possible for everyone we worked with. Hitting 20 years in this business has made me reflect on how much I truly love what I do. It’s not just about houses—it’s about the people, the stories, and the relationships. Each one has shaped my career and kept me passionate about real estate. Thank you for your trust, your referrals, and for making this job so rewarding. Here’s to the last 20 years and everything the future has in store. I can’t wait to keep working with you and seeing where the next chapter takes us.
The new year always brings questions, and when it comes to Ottawa real estate, 2025 feels especially uncertain. Between politics, economics, and global events, there’s a lot in play that could shape the market. I’ve put together a video with my predictions, but here’s a quick overview of what I’m keeping an eye on this year.
First up, it’s an election year, and all signs point to a potential change in government. If the Conservatives take over, we might see policy shifts or cuts to the public service. For a government town like Ottawa, this kind of uncertainty tends to make people act. Some homeowners may decide it’s time to sell, while others could take a wait-and-see approach.
Then there’s the interest rate situation. The Bank of Canada has been hinting at more rate cuts, which could bring buyers back into the market. Lower rates often mean more competition, and we might see the heat rise in certain neighbourhoods as people try to lock in favourable deals.
A major wildcard this year is the mortgage renewal crunch. Over a million mortgages are set to renew in 2025, and many of them were locked in when rates were under 1%. With current rates higher, those renewal notices could push some homeowners to rethink their finances—and their homes.
And let’s not forget global factors, like Trump’s sudden focus on Canada. New tariffs could hit industries and jobs, potentially making waves in our local market. Pair that with ongoing high inflation and the rising cost of living, and it’s clear that affordability will remain a big challenge for many buyers and sellers this year.
Curious to dive deeper? Watch my video below for the full scoop, and let me know what you think in the comments.
