What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know

Typically, I show the numbers for the month and how they compare to the same month last year.

But now that the first quarter of 2026 is complete, I wanted to take it a step further.

👉 I’ve added monthly sales data by property type to give you a clearer picture of how prices are actually moving right now.

Because here’s the truth:
📊 Year-over-year stats are helpful if you’re just curious about your home’s value…
💡 But month-to-month trends are far more useful if you’re thinking about buying or selling.

Let’s break it down 👇

📈 The Ottawa Market Is Gaining Momentum

After a slower winter, March showed clear signs of early spring activity.

👉 More buyers are stepping back into the market
👉 Sales activity is picking up
👉 Especially in the single-family home segment

While sales are still slightly below a “typical” March, the pace of improvement is accelerating.

💡 In simple terms:
The market is waking up—and gaining traction.

🏘️ Inventory Is Rising… But So Are Sales

One of the biggest stories right now:

📦 More homes are hitting the market
📈 But buyers are keeping up

This balance is important.

👉 It’s leading to a gradual tightening of the market
👉 Months of inventory are declining
👉 Homes are being absorbed more consistently across all property types

💡 This is what we call a healthy, balanced market

💰 Prices Are Starting to Firm Up

Here’s where it gets interesting for both buyers and sellers 👇

The MLS® Home Price Index has now recorded:
📈 Two consecutive months of price increases across most property types

That tells us:
👉 Home values are strengthening
👉 Buyer confidence is returning
👉 The spring market is taking shape

💡 We’re not seeing wild spikes—just steady, sustainable growth.

⚖️ A Balanced Market (With Momentum Building)

According to Ottawa Real Estate Board, Ottawa remains in balanced territory.

And that’s actually a good thing.

As Tami Eades, President of the Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) explains:

“What we’re seeing is a measured, steady return to activity. Inventory is up, sales are improving, and pricing is firming without overheating.”

👉 Translation:
No chaos. No crash. No frenzy.
Just a stable market with growing momentum.

🔮 What’s Coming Next?

Looking ahead, the outlook from Canadian Real Estate Association suggests:

📈 Demand is expected to strengthen
📉 Borrowing conditions may ease
🏡 Ottawa is already starting to align with this trend

On top of that, recent federal and provincial housing policies could:

👉 Increase activity
👉 Improve supply
👉 Support long-term stability

💡 What This Means for You

🏠 If You’re Buying:

• More inventory = more choice

• Prices are stabilizing (but starting to rise)

• Acting sooner could give you an advantage

🏡 If You’re Selling:

• Buyer demand is returning

• Pricing is strengthening

• Proper strategy is more important than ever

🤔 If You’re Just Watching:

• Your home value is likely stabilizing or increasing

• The market is not declining—it’s resetting and rebuilding momentum

📊 Why This Data Matters

This is exactly why I like to look at monthly trends, not just yearly comparisons.

Because real estate decisions aren’t made based on last year…
👉 They’re made based on what’s happening right now

📲 Thinking About Making a Move?

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options…

💬 Let’s have a conversation. 
No pressure. Just clear insights to help you make the right decision for your situation. Contact me HERE