Opportunities for Buyers & Run 4 Lighthouse – Go Canada Go!

Community

Hello all and welcome to our February newsletter!

O Canada! As we write this, the Olympic spirit is in the air. We’ve always loved gathering around the TV to watch the Games — the stories, the perseverance, the pride. One day, attending the Olympics in person is still on Nancy’s bucket list. There is something powerful about watching athletes who have trained for years to compete in a single moment.

What stands out this year is the focus on the families and friends behind them — the quiet supporters. It’s a beautiful reminder that success is rarely a solo act. In this season that celebrates love and commitment, we salute all who champion the dreams of the people around them. Whether it’s sport, school, business, or a move to a new home — showing up matters.

And speaking of showing up… Mark your calendars!

We are proud to once again participate in the annual Run4Lighthouse in support of Lighthouse for Grieving Children. Join us on May 30th at Spencer Smith Park as we run and walk alongside the beautiful Burlington Waterfront. We would love to have you join the 'Robertson Kadwell Runners'. It’s a meaningful morning for a very special organization. Not able to join us? No worries scroll down to see some of the other runs we are participating in.

Market Comment

There is a noticeable shift in energy across the GTA. According to the latest report from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), January home sales were up year-over-year, while new listings also increased — giving buyers more choice than we have seen in quite some time. Average selling prices across the GTA have remained relatively stable compared to last year, with modest adjustments in some segments.

When it comes to borrowing costs perspective is grounding. Consider where rates have been historically:

1980 – 14.25%
1981 – 22.75%
1982 – 15.81%
1990 – 14.06%

*Nancy purchased her first home in 1989 with a rate of 13.25%. Current borrowing costs have eased from their recent peak. With many 5 year fixed rates now hovering around 4%, confidence is slowly returning. We are feeling it in real time — more showings, more conversations, and more thoughtful planning. This is still a price-sensitive market. Buyers are careful and sellers must be strategic.

What this means for Buyers

This market offers something we have not seen in a while: choice and negotiating room. Inventory levels have improved overall, giving time to evaluate options carefully. That said, certain segments — particularly turnkey homes in established neighbourhoods — still have limited supply. As expected the best properties continue to attract strong interest and require moving fast.

With financing costs settling around the 4% range, many buyers are recognizing that today’s environment may offer strong opportunities ahead of the competition that is predicted to intensify later in the year. Markets move in cycles. Opportunity often appears when confidence is just beginning to return — not when headlines feel loud and competitive again.

What this means for Sellers

Preparation and pricing have never been more important. Buyers have options and they are discerning. Homes that are thoughtfully prepared and strategically priced are attracting attention, while properties that overshoot on price are sitting — sometimes unnecessarily. Launching at your best from the start in this market is critical, this is where experience makes a difference.

As we move toward the spring market, we are working closely with our sellers to ensure every detail is considered before hitting MLS. That can mean allowing time for trades, touch-ups, staging, and strategic positioning.

If a move is on your horizon — even months to a year from now — call us early. We will help you create the To-Do list, coordinate trusted professionals, and position your home to stand out when the time comes. It is always a privilege to guide our clients through these transitions.

Robertson Kadwell Runners

Looking for opportunities to get active this year? So are we! Check out some of the local runs and walks we are signing up for this year, we always appreciate some extra teammates. Please share any events you are signed up for!

That's it for our February newsletter! See you soon for our next newsletter. Not signed up? Subscribe to our newsletter here.