Depending on the neighbourhood you are hoping to live in, the type of home you are searching for, and (of course) your budget - the answer is quite likely YES!
The current real estate landscape in Toronto is that of a balanced market. We are now at 4+ months of inventory! Toronto has not had 4 months of inventory since September 1998! That's over 25 years since we last had this much choice!
This means that as a potential homebuyer, you have a unique advantage right now. Let's dive into what it means to be in a buyer's market in Toronto and discover the opportunities that await you!
As we approach late 2023 to early 2024, many areas in Toronto will experience a temporary shift towards a buyer's market. There are some properties that will continue to hold their value or perhaps increase in value for several reasons including;
- Price point: Anyone selling a home for $3,000,000 + is now looking at a January 1, 2024 implementation of the Luxury Tax. Buyers purchasing in this price point may still feel the competition until the end of 2023, especially for detached homes in areas such as Cedarvale, Lawrence Park, Leaside, Lytton Park, Playter Estates, and Forest Hill.
- Homes with special features or lots that are highly desirable and rarely available in great neighborhoods.
- Homes in prime neighborhoods that are in high demand and where homes rarely sell.
Understanding the Buyer's Market
In a buyer's market, the supply of available properties exceeds the demand from buyers. This situation often leads to reduced home prices, increased negotiating power for buyers, and a wider selection of homes to choose from. It's like having a shopping spree in the real estate world! While we are not seeing this currently in most markets, we are certainly seeing buyers taking a prolonged pause before making an offer and with more options on the market that could impact prices negatively for the short term in some cases.
Toronto's Housing Market Outlook
According to industry experts and recent reports, Toronto's housing market has experienced a shift towards a buyer's market. After a small decrease, prices were on the rise again in September, up 3.0% year-over-year. However, don't let that deter you! Despite this increase, the market is still favouring buyers, providing ample opportunities to find your dream home at an affordable price.
Benefits for Homebuyers
As a homebuyer in a buyer's market, you can enjoy several advantages:
- More Negotiating Power:** With a surplus of homes available, sellers are often more willing to negotiate on price and terms. This puts you in a favourable position to secure a better deal and potentially save a significant amount of money.
- Increased Selection:** With a wider range of properties to choose from, you have the freedom to explore different neighbourhoods, as well as different sizes and styles of homes. This allows you to find a home that checks all your boxes and truly suits your preferences and needs.
- Potential Price Reductions:** While prices may have increased in recent months, experts project a decrease in the average home price in the Greater Toronto Area. This means that you might have an opportunity to snag your dream home at a more affordable price than in previous years.
Seize the Opportunity: Tips for Homebuyers
To make the most of this buyer's market, here are a few tips to guide you along the way:
- Get Pre-Approved:** Before you start your house hunt, it's essential to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you a clear budget and a competitive edge when making offers.
- Work with a Knowledgeable Realtor:** Partnering with a trusted real estate agent who has expertise in the Toronto market is invaluable. They can provide insights, guide you through the process, and help you identify the best opportunities.
- Do Your Research:** Take advantage of the wider selection of homes by thoroughly researching different neighbourhoods, amenities, and property values. This knowledge will empower you to make well-informed decisions.
- Be Ready to Act:** In a competitive market, desirable properties can be snatched up quickly. Stay proactive, attend open houses, and be prepared to make offers promptly when you find the right home.
Now is the time to take advantage of the balanced market in Toronto. With lowered prices, increased negotiating power, and a wide variety of homes to choose from, your dream home may be just around the corner. Don't wait too long, as market conditions can and do change rapidly.
Are you ready to embark on your journey towards homeownership? Reach out to me by calling 416 820 3006 or emailing me at daniellagoldre@gmail.com and start exploring the incredible opportunities that Toronto's real estate market has to offer!
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