As 2026 approaches, the GTA housing market is entering a period of notable transition. Understanding the key trends ahead will be essential for buyers, sellers, and investors preparing for the year to come.

After analyzing current data, buyer behaviour, inventory levels, and real experiences from helping clients buy and sell homes daily, we can see clear patterns forming.
Below are 10 key trends that will define the GTA market in 2026 — and what they mean for both buyers and sellers.

1. Days on Market Will Continue to Increase

Longer selling times are becoming normal.
In 2025, many homes sat on the market for 20–30 days, and this trend will extend into 2026.
Buyers are more patient, more analytical, and less likely to rush into an offer. Sellers will need to adjust expectations and plan for longer listing periods.

2. Inventory Will Keep Growing

More listings are hitting the market, giving buyers greater choice and reducing competition.
A growing supply means:

• Fewer bidding wars

• More negotiation power for buyers

• A calmer, more balanced market

Expect inventory to remain elevated throughout 2026.

3. Showings and Offers Will Remain Low

In many parts of the GTA, listings now receive only 3–5 showings per week, even when priced correctly.
Some properties — especially those priced too high — may not receive a single offer before their listing expires.
This reflects a more cautious buyer mindset and a slower decision-making cycle.

4. More Unsold Homes Will Shift to the Rental Market

When sellers don’t achieve their expected price, many will opt to rent the property temporarily instead of selling at a discount.
This trend began in 2024, strengthened in 2025, and will continue into 2026.

5. It Will Take Around 24 Showings to Sell a Home

On average, a property now requires approximately 24 showings before securing a firm offer.
This highlights a highly selective buyer pool that is:

• Comparing more homes

• Waiting for price adjustments

• Taking more time before committing

6. Total Sales Volume Will Stay Similar to 2025

Don’t expect a surge in transactions.
2026 is projected to mirror 2025 in terms of sales volume, marking another year of:

• Stable but low activity

• Moderate buyer demand

• No major spikes in listing absorption

7. Prices Will Move Sideways — Not Up or Down Dramatically

Home prices will likely remain in a tight horizontal range throughout 2026.
This means:

• No significant appreciation

• No major decline

• A market defined by stability rather than volatility

This kind of sideways movement is typical of a buyer’s market with high inventory and steady demand.

8. More Listings Will Expire, Pause, or Cancel

Seller expectations continue to exceed what the market is willing to pay.
As a result, we’ll see more:

• Cancelled listings

• Expired listings

• Temporarily paused listings

This makes pricing strategy and presentation quality more important than ever.

9. Conditional Offers Will Dominate Again

After years of firm offers and bidding wars, the market is returning to a healthier balance.
Most offers now include:

• Financing conditions

• Home inspection conditions

• Status certificate reviews (for condos)

This trend will continue throughout 2026, giving buyers more confidence and protection.

10. Low-Ball Offers Will Become Commonplace

Buyers are testing the waters more often by submitting below-asking offers.
While some sellers may resist at first, many will adjust to this style of negotiation as the new norm in a high-inventory, lower-competition market.

Final Thoughts: What This Means for You

Overall, 2026 will be a continuation of 2025:

✔ Higher inventory
✔ Lower transaction volume
✔ Cautious buyer behaviour
✔ Prices remaining flat
✔ Increased negotiation room

For buyers:

This is a rare opportunity to take your time, compare properties, and negotiate better terms.

For sellers:

Strategy matters more than ever.
Pricing, staging, marketing, and timing will directly impact results.

As the market evolves, staying informed is the best way to navigate opportunities and challenges.

If you’d like insights tailored to your neighbourhood or are considering buying or selling in 2026, we are always here to help.