Waterloo Region Home Sales Sluggish in March, Prices Steady

Despite the challenging market conditions, the first quarter of 2024 saw an increase in home sales, marking an 8.0 per cent rise compared to the previous year. However, these figures still fall short of the first-quarter sales of the past decade.  

“While home sales in Waterloo Region hit a record low for March in over two decades, we’re also witnessing a positive trend,” says Christal Moura, president of WRAR.  Over the past three months, prices and activity have started to pick up, and I expect this momentum will continue into the spring.”  

If you are considering to Sell your home or Buy a home in the next short while it would be highly beneficial for you to connect with one of our Team Agents at

The Riz Team

Do you want to know what your home is worth today? Click Below for our Online No Obligation Market Evaluation

WATERLOO REGION, ON (April 4, 2024) —In March, a total of 596 homes were sold via the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR). This represents a decrease of 3.2% compared to the same period last year and a decline of 33.4% compared to the average number of homes sold in the previous 5 years for the same month. 

Despite the challenging market conditions, the first quarter of 2024 saw an increase in home sales, marking an 8.0 per cent rise compared to the previous year. However, these figures still fall short of the first-quarter sales of the past decade. 

“While home sales in Waterloo Region hit a record low for March in over two decades, we’re also witnessing a positive trend,” says Christal Moura, president of WRAR.  Over the past three months, prices and activity have started to pick up, and I expect this momentum will continue into the spring.”    

Total residential sales in March included 344 detached (down 3.9 per cent from March 2023), and 127 townhouses (down 0.8 per cent). Sales also included 86 condominium units (down 1.1 per cent) and 37 semi-detached homes (down 11.9 per cent).  

In March, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $806,279. This represents a 3.6 per cent increase compared to March 2023 and a 6.6 per cent increase compared to February 2024.  

• The average price of a detached home was $954,342. This represents a 4.9 per cent increase from March 2023 and an increase of 7.3 per cent compared to February 2024.  
• The average sale price for a townhouse was $667,810. This represents a 4.4 per cent increase from March 2023 and an increase of 6.0 per cent compared to February 2024.  
• The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $483,085. This represents an increase of 0.3 per cent from March 2023 and an increase of 5.3 per cent compared to February 2024.  
• The average sale price for a semi was $680,039. This represents a decrease of 2.9 per cent compared to March 2023 and an increase of 1.0 per cent compared to February 2024. 

“Home prices have been gradually increasing since December, which is a typical trend,” explains Moura. “The rate and extent of further increases will depend on the willingness and patience of potential home buyers who have been waiting for lower interest rates before making their purchase. With the Bank of Canada not anticipated to make any rate changes before its June meeting, some potential home buyers may feel stuck in limbo.” 

The president of WRAR recommends that anyone interested in buying or selling a property in Waterloo Region seek advice from a local REALTOR® regarding the current market conditions. This will enable them to make an informed decision that aligns with their goals and priorities.  

There were 1,023 new listings added to the MLS® System in Waterloo Region last month, an increase of 18.7 per cent compared to March last year and a 15.9 per cent decrease compared to the previous ten-year average for March.  

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of March was 1,081 an increase of 54.0 per cent compared to March of last year and 1.1 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1,093 listings for March. 

At the end of March, there were 1.9 months of inventory, a 58.3 percent increase compared to last year and 18.8 percent above the previous 10-year average. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current sales rate.   

The average number of days to sell in March was 19, the same number as March 2023. The previous 5-year average is 18 days.   

These statistics provide a snapshot of the real estate market in the Waterloo Region in March, showing both positive and challenging aspects for buyers and sellers. WRAR encourages buyers to reach out to local Realtors for valuable insights about the current state of the local market and to receive tailored advice based on their specific needs. 

View our HPI tool here to learn more: https://wrar.ca/hpi/ 

Average Sales Price – Municipality

Average Sales Price – Township

Monthly Sales By Property Type

Monthly Supply of Homes for Sale

Monthly Supply of Homes for Sale – By Property Type

Monthly Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Monthly Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Monthly Average Days on Market

WRAR cautions that average sale price information can help identify long-term trends but should not be to indicate that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average sale price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Months Supply is the inventory of homes for sale at the end of a given month, divided by the average monthly closed sales from the last 12 months. Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a Waterloo Region REALTOR®. REALTORS® have their fingers on the pulse of the market. They know the questions to ask, the areas to probe and what to look for so that you get a complete picture of the property and community you’re considering.

Looking to buy a home can be an exciting but overwhelming experience, especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer. With so many options available and factors to consider, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together a list of 5 essential tips for anyone looking to buy real estate in the current market. Whether you’re a seasoned buyer or just starting out, these tips will help you make informed decisions and find the perfect home for you. And to make things even easier, I’ve created a video to accompany this post, so you can follow along. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top 5 buyer tips for real estate!

#1. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. 

This seems obvious, but you would be surprised how many people I meet for the first time who ask me to show them 5 homes that day, and when we get to the first home, I ask, so how much were you pre-approved for? and they say oh we haven’t gone to the bank yet 😲. In today’s competitive market, it’s essential to have a pre-approval in place before you start your property search. This will give you a clear idea of your budget and help you avoid wasting time (yours and mine) looking at properties outside your price range. It also gives you that competitive advantage of being ready to pull the trigger as soon as you find the property you love.

#2. Put your budget into a mortgage calculator. 

Just because you are pre-approved for a certain number, doesn’t mean you want to pay that much. There are tons of apps that you can find that will calculate your costs. You basically put in the purchase price, and your down payment amount, and it will calculate at today’s interest rate, how much your mortgage payments would be. You should also factor in property taxes, insurance and some utilities to get a good idea of how much your costs will be every month. You might find that you don’t want to spend as much as the bank is giving you. 

#3. Work with an experienced real estate agent.

A good real estate agent can be an invaluable asset in a competitive market. They can help you find properties that meet your criteria, so that you are not running around looking at homes that don’t have that walk-in closet or ensuite bathroom you want. They will negotiate on your behalf. And provide valuable insights on local market trends, like how to win an offer in today’s competitive market. 

#4. Be prepared to act quickly.

With low inventory and high demand, homes can sell quickly in today’s market. Be ready to make an offer as soon as you find a property that meets your needs. This may mean being flexible on closing dates, offering a higher deposit, or being willing to waive contingencies.

#5. Stay focused on your goals.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a hot real estate market, but it’s important to stay focused on your goals and priorities. Don’t let the fear of missing out (FOMO) drive your decision making. Stick to your budget, timeline, and must haves to ensure you make a sound investment that meets your needs in the long term. 

For more information feel free to connect with me at 519-591-7413 or nicole@therizteam.com

Nicole Shantz – Sales Representative | The Riz Team – Real Estate Professionals | Royal LePage Wolle Realty, Brokerage

Remember….Don’t put it on HOLD…call The Riz Team to get it SOLD!!!™

Fewer Homes Sales in December Ends a Year of Weaker Sales Activity in Waterloo Region

If you are considering to Sell your home or Buy a home in the next short while it would be highly beneficial for you to connect with one of our Team Agents at

The Riz Team

Do you want to know what your home is worth today? Click Below for our Online No Obligation Market Evaluation

WATERLOO REGION, ON (January 5, 2023) —There were 7,770 homes sold through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR) in 2022, a decrease of 24.8 per cent compared to 2021. On a historical basis, 2022 performed lower than previous years, with annual sales down 12.4 per cent compared to the previous 5-year average and 8.2 per cent below the previous 10-year average.

On a monthly basis, there were 280 homes sold in December, a decrease of 38.7 per cent compared to December 2021, and 32.3 per cent below the previous 5-year average for the month.

“The number of homes sold in December was lower than any single month in well over a decade, marking an end to a turbulent year for home sales in Waterloo Region,” says Megan Bell, President of WRAR.

Fewer Home Sales in October

“Unsurprisingly, the pace of home sales continued to slow in October after the Bank of Canada’s sixth straight interest rate hike in September,” says Megan Bell, President of WRAR. “Faced with higher borrowing costs, some buyers have had to re-assess what they can afford. As these buyers get moved to the sidelines, sellers question if now is the best possible time to sell.”

If you are considering to Sell your home or Buy a home in the next short while it would be highly beneficial for you to connect with one of our Team Agents at

The Riz Team

Do you want to know what your home is worth today? Click Below for our Online No Obligation Market Evaluation

 

WATERLOO REGION, ON (November 2, 2022) —491 residential homes were sold last month through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR), a decrease of 39.7 per cent compared to October 2021 and 36.2 per cent below the previous 5-year average for the month.

Total residential sales in October included 310 detached (down 38.2 per cent from October 2021), and 84 townhouses (down 45.1 per cent). Sales also included 64 condominium units (down 36.0 per cent) and 31 semi-detached homes (down 47.5 per cent).

“Unsurprisingly, the pace of home sales continued to slow in October after the Bank of Canada’s sixth straight interest rate hike in September,” says Megan Bell, President of WRAR. “Faced with higher borrowing costs, some buyers have had to re-assess what they can afford. As these buyers get moved to the sidelines, sellers question if now is the best possible time to sell.”

In October, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $763,630. This represents an 8.4 per cent decrease compared to October 2021 and a 1.6 per cent increase compared to September 2022.

• The average price of a detached home was $860,568. This represents a 10.6 per cent decrease from October 2021 and a decrease of 0.3 per cent compared to September 2022.
• The average sale price for a townhouse was $635,197. This represents a 9.0 per cent decrease from October 2021 and a decrease of 0.4 per cent compared to September 2022.
• The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $488,277. This represents an increase of 3.9 per cent from October 2021 and an increase of 7.3 per cent compared to September 2022.
• The average sale price for a semi was $624,999. This represents a decrease of 10.8 per cent compared to October 2021 and a decrease of 1.9 per cent compared to September 2022.

WRAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long-term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) provides the best way to gauge price trends because averages are strongly distorted by changes in the mix of sales activity from one month to the next.

MLS® Home Price Index Benchmark Price
	Kitchener-Waterloo			Cambridge
Benchmark Type:	October 2022	Monthly % Change	Yr./Yr. % Change	October 2022	Monthly % Change	Yr./Yr. % Change
Composite	$723,200	-0.2	-8.8	$730,700	-2.3	-9.8
Detached	$807,900	-0.0	-10.1	$751,800	-2.1	-11.6
Townhouse	$603,700	-1.3	-3.2	$663,100	-2.4	1.8
Apartment	$494,400	-0.1	6.5	$520,100	-6.6	7.3

 

“While there is uncertainty in the minds of consumers about current market conditions, one thing is for certain, Waterloo region’s housing supply remains one of the tightest in the country,” says Bell.  “Buyers may be on the sidelines for now due to affordability, but the underlying demand for housing remains strong.”

There were 827 new listings added to the MLS® System in the Waterloo Region last month, a decrease of 3.3 per cent compared to October of last year and a 14.3 per cent decrease compared to the previous ten-year average for October.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of October was 928, an increase of 134.9 per cent compared to October of last year and 34.9 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1425 listings for October.

The number of months of inventory is up 160.0 per cent compared to October of last year, but still historically low at 1.3 months. Between 2009 and 2015, October’s average months of inventory was 3.6 months. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current sales rate.

The average number of days to sell in October was 22, compared to 10 days in October 2021. The previous 5-year average is 19 days.

Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®.  Working with a Realtor is the best way to get a complete picture of the housing market, your particular property and the community you are considering.

View our HPI tool here to learn more: https://wrar.ca/hpi/

Click on any of the graphs below for an interactive view.

Average Sales Price – Municipality

Average Sales Price – Township

Monthly Sales By Property Type

Monthly Supply of Homes for Sale

Monthly Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Monthly Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Monthly Average Days on Market

Rising Borrowing Costs Continue to Tame Home Sales in August

“The decline was most pronounced in the apartment-style condo and townhouse categories which could indicate that rising borrowing costs are having a greater impact on first-time buyers and those looking for more affordable options.”   

If you are considering to Sell your home or Buy a home in the next short while it would be highly beneficial for you to connect with one of our Team Agents at

The Riz Team

Do you want to know what your home is worth today? Click Below for our Online No Obligation Market Evaluation

HOME PRICES CONTINUE TO DIP AS MONTHS SUPPLY RETURNS TO PRE-PANDEMIC LEVEL

If you are considering to Sell your home or Buy a home in the next short while it would be highly beneficial for you to connect with one of our Team Agents at

The Riz Team

Do you want to know what your home is worth today? Click Below for our Online No Obligation Market Evaluation

The Riz Team monthly market stats June 2022. Kitchener Waterloo, ON.

There were 561 residential homes sold through the Multiple Listing Service® System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® (KWAR) in June, a decrease of 24.0 per cent compared to the same month last year, and 17.3 per cent below the previous 5-year average. “For the fourth consecutive month we’re seeing home prices moderate as the number of properties available for sale has steadily increased” says Megan Bell, President of KWAR. “In June the average price of a detached home has levelled off to where it was this time last year.”

Total residential sales in June included 326 detached (down 20.7 per cent from June 2021), and 103 townhouses (down 32.2 per cent). Sales also included 84 condominium units (down 18.4 per cent) and 48 semi-detached homes (down 33.3 per cent).

In June, the average sale price for all residential properties in the Kitchener-Waterloo area was $791,674. This represents a 4.2 per cent increase over June 2021 and a 9.6 per cent decrease compared to May 2022.

• The average price of a detached home was $920,349. This represents a 0.0 per cent change from June 2021 and a decrease 9.5 per cent compared to May 2022.
• The average sale price for a townhouse was $662,305. This represents a 11.9 per cent increase from June 2021 and a decrease of 6.5 per cent compared to May 2022.
• The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $497,429. This represents an increase of 11.7 per cent from June 2021 and a decrease of 8.9 per cent compared to May 2022.
• The average sale price for a semi was $710,284. This represents an increase of 9.5 per cent compared to June 2021 and a decrease of 2.8 per cent compared to May 2022.

KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long-term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) provides the best way to gauge price trends because averages are strongly distorted by changes in the mix of sales activity from one month to the next.

The MLS® HPI composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Kitchener-Waterloo was $790,600 in June. This represents a 6.8 per cent increase over June 2021 and a 6.8 per cent decrease compared to May 2022.

• The benchmark price for a detached home was $876,600. This represents a 5.3 per cent increase from June 2021 and 7.3 per cent decrease compared to May 2022.
• The benchmark price for a townhouse is $676,900. This represents a 15.8 per cent increase from June 2021 and a 7.1 per cent decrease compared to May 2022.
• The benchmark price for an apartment-style condominium was $537,100. This represents a 24.2 per cent increase from June 2021 and a 2.4 per cent decrease compared to May 2022.

“This time last year, sales were going through the roof,” says Bell. “The home buying scene is a little different this year with folks finally taking their postponed trips, attending weddings, and generally catching up on the many missed occasions of the past two years.” Of course, recent hikes in mortgage rates are also contributing to sales cooling, notes KWAR’s president.

“While any shift in the market will result in some individuals predicting the worse, the simple reality is that the market we had been in was unsustainable,” says Bell. “What this means for buyers is more inventory, more choices, and perhaps most importantly, potentially less stress when purchasing. For sellers, they need to ensure their properties stand out from the competition and be aware it may take more time to sell their home and for potentially less money than they were expecting.”

There were 1,285 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, an increase of 49.2 per cent compared to June of last year, and a 41.7 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for June.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of June was 991, an increase of 165.0 per cent compared to June of last year, and 20.6 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1249 listings for June.

The number of months of inventory increased to 1.8 months in June from 1.6 months in May. While inventory is still at historic lows, this is the highest it’s been since September 2019 and a return to where inventory was in the pre-pandemic June of 2019. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current rate of sales.

The average number of days to sell in June was 13 days, compared to 11 days in June 2021. The previous 5-year average is 17 days.

Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®.  Working with a Realtor is the best way to get a complete picture of the property and community you are considering.

View our HPI tool here to learn more: https://kwar.ca/hpi-dashboard

Historical Sales By Property Type

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Average Days on Market

KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average sale price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Months Supply is the inventory of homes for sale at the end of a given month, divided by the average monthly closed sales from the last 12 months Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®. REALTORS® have their fingers on the pulse of the market. They know the questions to ask, the areas to probe and what to look for so that you get a complete picture of the property and community you’re considering.

LISTINGS INCREASE WHILE HOME SALES SLOW IN MAY

If you are considering to Sell your home or Buy a home in the next short while it would be highly beneficial for you to connect with one of our Team Agents at

The Riz Team

Do you want to know what your home is worth today? Click Below for our Online No Obligation Market Evaluation

There were 661 residential homes sold through the Multiple Listing Service® System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® (KWAR) in May, a decrease of 22.7 per cent compared to the same month last year, and 5.5 per cent below the previous 5-year average.

“The increase by the Bank of Canada to the key interest rate in April had the predictable result of knocking some buyers down if not out of the market in May,” says Megan Bell, President of KWAR. “While the impact to prices is small, it has had a critical impact on some buyers and what they can now afford.”

Total residential sales in May included 404 detached (down 16.7 per cent from May 2021), and 115 townhouses (down 38.5 per cent). Sales also included 95 condominium units (down 12.0 per cent) and 47 semi-detached homes (down 36.5 per cent).

In May, the average sale price for all residential properties in the Kitchener-Waterloo area was $875,194. This represents a 18.3 per cent increase over May 2021 and a 3.5 per cent decrease compared to April 2022.

• The average price of a detached home was $1,016,834. This represents a 17.0 per cent increase from May 2021 and a decrease 4.2 per cent compared to April 2022.
• The average sale price for a townhouse was $708,722. This represents a 17.7 per cent increase from May 2021 and a decrease of 7.2 per cent compared to April 2022.
• The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $545,825. This represents an increase of 19.7 per cent from May 2021 and a decrease of 9.1 per cent compared to April 2022.
• The average sale price for a semi was $730,768. This represents an increase of 10.7 per cent compared to May 2021 and a decrease of 7.0 per cent compared to April 2022.

KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long-term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) provides the best way to gauge price trends because averages are strongly distorted by changes in the mix of sales activity from one month to the next.

The MLS® HPI composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Kitchener-Waterloo was $848,600 in May. This represents a 15.1 per cent increase over May 2021 and a 4.7 per cent decrease compared to April 2022.

• The benchmark price for a detached home was $945,800. This represents a 14.6 per cent increase from May 2021 and 4.9 per cent decrease compared to April 2022.

“With the announcement from the Bank of Canada about another interest rate hike this week we may see a   resurgence of buyers who have locked in at a lesser rate, but as borrowing costs continue to increase, we should expect demand will continue to soften, particularly in the more entry-level segment of the market,” says Bell.

There were 1,422 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, an increase of 33.9 per cent compared to May of last year, and a 40.4 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for May.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of May was 902, an increase of 98.2 per cent compared to May of last year, and 28.8 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1267 listings for May.

The number of months of inventory increased to 1.6 months in May from 1.2 months in April. While inventory is still at historic lows, this is the highest it’s been since September 2019. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current rate of sales.

The average number of days to sell in May was 11 days, compared to 9 days in May 2021. The previous 5-year average is 16 days.

Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®.  Working with a Realtor is the best way to get a complete picture of the property and community you are considering.

View our HPI tool here to learn more: https://kwar.ca/hpi-dashboard

**click on any chart for an interactive view**

Historical Sales By Property Type

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Average Days on Market Chart

KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long-term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average sale price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Months Supply is the inventory of homes for sale at the end of a given month, divided by the average monthly closed sales from the last 12 months Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®. REALTORS® have their fingers on the pulse of the market. They know the questions to ask, the areas to probe and what to look for so that you get a complete picture of the property and community you’re considering.

MORE LISTINGS, SLOWER HOME SALES IN APRIL

“Last month introduced a small measure of relief to the market,” said Megan Bell, President of KWAR. “While the number of sales remains strong, and sale prices continue to turn out robust annual gains, we’re seeing fewer multiple offers and more conditions on offers making their way back into the market.”

If you are considering to Sell your home or Buy a home in the next short while it would be highly beneficial for you to connect with one of our Team Agents at

The Riz Team

Do you want to know what your home is worth today? Click Below for our Online No Obligation Market Evaluation

Total residential sales in April included 361 detached (down 25.4 per cent from April 2021), and 107 condominium units (down 2.7 per cent). Sales also included 48 semi-detached homes (down 29.4 per cent) and 117 townhouses (down 35.7 per cent).

In April, the average sale price for all residential properties in the Kitchener-Waterloo area was $907,205. This represents a 19.6 per cent increase over April 2021 and a 5.5 per cent decrease compared to March 2022.

• The average price of a detached home was $1,060,992. This represents a 18.0 per cent increase from April 2021 and a decrease 6.4 per cent compared to March 2022.
• The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $600,219. This represents an increase of 35.3 per cent from April 2021 and an increase of 6.0 per cent compared to March 2022.
• The average sale price for a townhouse was $763,422. This represents a 24.5 per cent increase from April 2021 and a decrease of 4.1 per cent compared to March 2022.
• The average sale price for a semi was $785,394. This represents an increase of 20.4 per cent compared to April 2021 and a decrease of 10.5 per cent compared to March 2022.

KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long-term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) provides the best way to gauge price trends because averages are strongly distorted by changes in the mix of sales activity from one month to the next.

The MLS® HPI composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Kitchener-Waterloo was $929,300 in April. This represents a 24.5 per cent increase over April 2021 and a 3.2 per cent decrease compared to March 2022.

• The benchmark price for a detached home was $998,400. This represents a 23.4 per cent increase from April 2021 and 4.6 per cent decrease compared to March 2022.
• The benchmark price for an apartment-style condominium was $493,600. This represents a 29.3 per cent increase from April 2021 and a 2.0 per cent increase compared to March 2022.
• The benchmark price for a townhouse is $755,500. This represents a 30.7 per cent increase from April 2021 and a 1.3 per cent decrease compared to March 2022.

“The trajectory the market was on was simply not sustainable, however, I want to emphasize it would be premature to draw any conclusions on just a single month’s activity.  The housing market in Waterloo Region is still very much a sellers’ market, but sellers may need to adjust their expectations,” says Bell. “We noticed this shift after the Bank of Canada’s recent rate increase reinforcing that it has been cheap money empowering too many buyers to chase after too few listings driving the market rather than anything else.”

There were 1,277 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, an increase of 16.2 per cent compared to April of last year, and a 40.2 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for April.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of April was 703, an increase of 48.6 per cent compared to April of last year, and 39.9 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1,169 listings for April. This is the first time since September 2019 that the total number of homes for sale metric has been over 700.

The number of months of inventory increased to 1.2 months in April from 0.7 months in March. This is the first time since September 2020 that inventory has nudged above the one-month mark. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current rate of sales.

The average number of days to sell in April was 9 days, the same as it was in April 2021. The previous 5-year average is 16 days.

Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®.  Working with a Realtor is the best way to get a complete picture of the property and community you are considering.

View our HPI tool here to learn more: https://kwar.ca/hpi-dashboard

Historical Sales By Property Type

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Average Days on Market Chart

KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average sale price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Months Supply is the inventory of homes for sale at the end of a given month, divided by the average monthly closed sales from the last 12 months Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®. REALTORS® have their fingers on the pulse of the market. They know the questions to ask, the areas to probe and what to look for so that you get a complete picture of the property and community you’re considering.

KITCHENER-WATERLOO HOME SALES UP IN MARCH, AVERAGE PRICE DIPS FROM FEBRUARY

“The skyrocketing prices of the last two months took a bit of a breather in March, with the overall average price dipping five per cent compared to what we saw in February,” said Megan Bell, President of KWAR. “While it is too soon to draw conclusions from just one month of home sales, I know many will be comforted to see a leveling off on the average price, no matter how incremental.”

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The Riz Team

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Total residential sales in March included 416 detached (down 29.7 per cent from March 2021), and 114 condominium units (down 9.5 per cent). Sales also included 64 semi-detached homes (down 17.9 per cent) and 131 townhouses (down 33.8 per cent).

In March, the average sale price for all residential properties in the Kitchener-Waterloo area was $960,181. This represents a 25.5 per cent increase over March 2021 and a 4.6 per cent decrease compared to February 2022.

• The average price of a detached home was $1,132,637. This represents a 25.9 per cent increase from March 2021 and a decrease 6.4 per cent compared to February 2022.
• The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $565,782. This represents an increase of 33.4 per cent from March 2021 and a decrease of 1.2 per cent compared to February 2022.
• The average sale price for a townhouse was $796,696. This represents a 27.4 per cent increase from March 2021 and a decrease of 7.6 per cent compared to February 2022.
• The average sale price for a semi was $876,371. This represents an increase of 34.5 per cent compared to March 2021 and a decrease of 5.0 per cent compared to February 2022.

KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long-term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The MLS®® Home Price Index (HPI) provides the best way to gauge price trends because averages are strongly distorted by changes in the mix of sales activity from one month to the next.

The MLS® HPI composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Kitchener-Waterloo was $960,100 in March. This represents a 29.6 per cent increase over March 2021 and a 1.5 per cent decrease compared to February 2022.

• The benchmark price for a detached home was $1,046,200. This represents a 28.1 per cent increase from March 2021 and 4.0 per cent decrease compared to February 2022.
• The benchmark price for an apartment-style condominium was $484,000. This represents a 32.9 per cent increase from March 2021 and a 4.2 per cent increase compared to February 2022.
• The benchmark price for a townhouse is $765,500. This represents a 41.3 per cent increase from March 2021 and a 4.9 per cent increase compared to February 2022.

“Even though the average price decreased across all property types on a month-to-month basis, the MLS® HPI showed continued monthly gains for both townhouse and apartment property types,” notes Bell.  “As the province feels its way out of the pandemic, we are beginning to see some very preliminary signs of a potential cooling. We are not seeing quite as many multiple offers and some offers are coming in with conditions. Of course, when we say cooling, we’re talking about a market that has been scorching hot which is why we are pleased to see this happening.”

There were 1,131 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, a decrease 16.8 per cent compared to the record topping number of listings added in March of last year, and a 28.0 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for March.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of March was 441, an increase of 1.1 per cent compared to March of last year, and 59.0 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1,072 listings for March.

The number of months of inventory nudged up to 0.7 months in March from 0.5 months in February. Inventory has been under the one-month mark since October 2020. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current rate of sales.

The average number of days to sell in March was 8 days, the same as it was in March 2021. The previous 5-year average is 16 days.

The More Homes for Everyone Act

Statement from KWAR President Megan Bell

Last week the Government of Ontario introduced a new bill, the More Homes for Everyone Act to address the province’s housing affordability crisis.

While we welcome several aspects of the proposed More Homes for Everyone bill, such as measures to support more timely municipal decision making and developing policies and tools to support multi-generational homes in existing neighbourhoods—bolder actions to increase supply were notably missing.

Ontario’s Housing Affordability Task Force had recommended limiting exclusionary zoning and allowing “as of right” residential housing up to four units and up to four storeys on a single residential lot. Instead, the government has committed to the Task Force’s recommendations as part of a “long term roadmap”.

KWAR is optimistic Waterloo Region will be bold about housing in their official plan update

Ending exclusionary zoning to allow for gentle density in our neighbourhoods is critical to filling the lack of “missing middle” supply for family-sized households.

While Minister Clark states that some municipalities (such as Toronto and Mississauga) were not ready, KWAR is optimistic that the Region of Waterloo (ROW) will take a more progressive view toward increasing density.  On the development side, the Waterloo region has been exceeding density targets set by the province. At KWAR’s recently held Where Do We Grow From Here Symposium we learned from the ROW’s Commissioner, Rod Regier the Region is proposing policies for the ROW official plan that would see a tiered approach to missing middle housing by allowing 4 units and up to 4 storeys, as-of-right, on all land currently zoned residential and on any new greenfield land (residential); and allow a range of 8 to 12 storeys, along specific corridors, such as the ION corridor.

KWAR encourages the Region of Waterloo to stay the course on its bold proposals for its Regional Official Plan and create ways to bring a broad range of housing options to our community.

Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®.  Working with a Realtor is the best way to get a complete picture of the property and community you are considering.

View our HPI tool here to learn more: https://kwar.ca/hpi-dashboard

Historical Sales By Property Type

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Average Days on Market Chart

KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average sale price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Months Supply is the inventory of homes for sale at the end of a given month, divided by the average monthly closed sales from the last 12 months Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®. REALTORS® have their fingers on the pulse of the market. They know the questions to ask, the areas to probe and what to look for so that you get a complete picture of the property and community you’re considering.

“Although home sales slowed down to some degree in July compared to June, overall demand remains very strong,” says Nicole Pohl, President of KWAR. “The current inventory of homes available for sale in the Kitchener-Waterloo and area is extremely low, making Waterloo Region one of the most competitive markets in Ontario.”

Total residential sales in July included 339 detached (down 27.1 per cent from July 2020), and 91 condominium units (up 30 per cent). Sales also included 46 semi-detached homes (down 4.2) and 135 townhouses (down 11.8 per cent).

In July, the average sale price for all residential properties in the Kitchener-Waterloo area was $755,681. This represents a 18.2 per cent increase over July 2020 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to June 2021.

• • • The average price of a detached home was $907,192. This represents a 21.9 per cent increase from July 2020 and a decrease of 1.4 per cent compared to June 2021.
  • • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $429,630. This represents an increase of 6.7 per cent from July 2020 and a decrease of 3.6 per cent compared to June 2021.
  • • The average sale price for a townhouse was $623,732. This represents a 33.8 per cent increase from July 2020 and an increase of 5.4 per cent compared to June 2021.
  • • The average sale price for a semi was $667,570. This represents an increase of 28.6 per cent compared to July 2020 and an increase of 2.9 per cent compared to June 2021.

KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long-term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) provides the best way to gauge price trends because averages are strongly distorted by changes in the mix of sales activity from one month to the next.

The MLS® HPI composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Kitchener-Waterloo was $748,700 in July. This represents a 30.5 per cent increase over July 2020 and a 0.4 per cent increase compared to June 2021.

• The benchmark price for a detached home was $822,300. This represents a 31.1 per cent increase from July 2020 and 0.2 per cent increase compared to June 2021.
• The benchmark price for an apartment-style condominium was $385,900. This represents a 19.5 per cent increase from July 2020 and a 3.3 per cent increase compared to June 2021.
• The benchmark price for a townhouse is $564,500. This represents a 40 per cent increase from July 2020 and a 0.4 per cent decrease compared to June 2021.

“The housing market took a bit of a breather last month,” notes Pohl. “July is typically a quieter month with families taking vacation, and with the region coming out of lockdown there were certainly more staycations happening.  But we do anticipate the market will pick up steam again and it will be another busy fall.”

There were 675 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, a decrease of 24 per cent compared to July of last year, and a 14.4 per cent decrease compared to the previous ten-year average for July.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of July was 281, a decrease of 52.7 per cent compared to July of last year, and 79.1 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1,346 listings for July.

The number of months of inventory was 0.4 in July, a decline from 0.5 months in June. Inventory has numbered less than 1 month since October. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current rate of sales.

The average number of days to sell in July was 11 days, compared to 17 days in July 2020 and a previous 5-year average of 22 days.

Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®.  Working with a Realtor is the best way to get a complete picture of the property and community you are considering.

View our HPI tool here to learn more: https://kwar.ca/hpi-dashboard

Historical Sales By Property Type

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Average Days on Market

KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long-term trends but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average sale price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Months Supply is the inventory of homes for sale at the end of a given month, divided by the average monthly closed sales from the last 12 months Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®. REALTORS® have their fingers on the pulse of the market. They know the questions to ask, the areas to probe and what to look for so that you get a complete picture of the property and community you’re considering.