The Riz Team Blog

Posts Tagged ‘Kitchener Buyers’

Top 7 Tips to Attract the Best Offers for Your Home

Friday, November 17th, 2023

Not long ago, home sellers were in their heyday, as historically-low mortgage rates triggered a real estate buying frenzy. However, the Bank of Canada shut down the party when it began raising interest rates last year. 

Now, it’s not as simple to sell a home. While pandemic-era home buyers were racing the clock—trying to lock in a low mortgage rate and gain a foothold in the market—current buyers are much more discerning. Higher prices and mortgage rates have pushed their limits of affordability, leading them to prioritize cost, condition, and overall value. 

The reality is, home inventory remains low, so most properties will still sell with some basic prep, the right price, and a good real estate agent. But owners who go the extra mile are more likely to sell faster and for a higher amount. 

If you have plans to sell your home and want to net the most money possible, this list is for you. Here are our top seven strategies to attract the best offers and maximize your real estate returns. 

 

  1. UNDERGO A PRE-LISTING INSPECTION

Many homebuyers hire a professional to complete a home inspection before they close. But did you know that a seller can order their own inspection, known as a pre-listing inspection, before they put their home on the market? 

Having a pre-listing inspection on hand and ready to share shows interested buyers that you’re committed to a transparent transaction. This can help you market your home, strengthen your negotiating position, and minimize roadblocks to closing. 

Of course, it’s always possible that a pre-listing inspection—which looks at the home’s major systems and structures, among other things—could turn up a significant problem. This does carry some risk, as you’ll be required to either fix or disclose any issues to potential buyers. However, in most cases, it’s better to know about and address deficiencies upfront than to find out mid-transaction, when it could cost you more in the form of repair credits, a delayed closing, or a canceled sale. 

We can help you decide if a pre-listing inspection is right for you. And if it identifies any concerns, we can advise on which items need attention before you list your home. 

 

  1. CONSIDER STRATEGIC UPGRADES

Embarking on major renovations before putting your home on the market doesn’t always make financial (or logistical) sense. However, certain upgrades are more likely to pay off and can help elevate your home in the eyes of buyers. 

For example, new flooring can generate up to a 150% return on investment at resale and a countertop upgrade could pay for itself. Similarly, research shows landscaping features can increase a home’s value by up to 12%.

Often, even simpler and less expensive fixes can make a big difference in how your home comes across to buyers. A fresh coat of paint in a neutral colour, modern light fixtures and hardware, and new caulk around the tub or shower can help your property look its best. 

But before you make any changes to your home, reach out. We know what buyers in your neighborhood are looking for and can help you decide if a particular investment is worthwhile. 

 

  1. HIRE A HOME STAGER

To get standout offers, you need potential buyers to fall in love with your home—and they’re much more likely to do so if they can envision themselves in the space. 

That’s where home staging comes in. Staging can include everything from decluttering and packing away personal items to bringing in neutral furniture and accessories for showings and open houses. 

According to the U.S.-based National Association of Realtors, home staging can both increase the dollar value of home offers and help a property sell faster. In fact, 53% of seller’s agents agree that staging decreases the amount of time a home spends on the market, and 44% of buyer’s agents see higher offers for staged homes. 

There’s plenty of strategy and research behind the process, so it’s smart to consider a professional. Reach out for a connection to one of our recommended home stagers who can help your property show its full potential. 

 

  1. EMPLOY A COMPETITIVE PRICING STRATEGY

While it’s tempting to list your property at the highest possible price, that approach can backfire. Homes that are overpriced tend to sit on the market, which can drive away potential buyers—and drive down offers. 

Alternatively, if you price your home competitively, which is either at or slightly below market value, it can be among the nicest that buyers see within their budgets. This can ultimately lead to a higher sales price and fewer concessions. 

To help you list at the right price, we will do a comparative market analysis, or CMA. This integral piece of research will help us determine an ideal listing price based on the amount that comparable properties have recently sold for in your neighborhood. 

Without this data, you risk pricing your home too high (and getting no offers) or too low (and leaving money on the table). Combined with our local market insights, we’ll help you find that sweet spot that will attract the best offers while maximizing your profit margin. 

 

  1. OFFER ALTERNATIVE FINANCING

Conventional mortgages, while widely used, may not be accessible to everyone. For example, higher mortgage rates and home prices have made it difficult for some homebuyers to pass the required mortgage stress test. 

Consequently, certain alternatives, like vendor take-back (VTB) mortgages, are becoming increasingly popular. A VTB mortgage is a unique financing arrangement in which the seller of a property provides a loan to the buyer for all or a portion of the purchase price. 

Buyers who don’t qualify for a traditional mortgage can be highly motivated to purchase from a seller offering a VTB loan. Sellers, consequently, can benefit too, by commanding a higher price or collecting more interest on their capital than they could from a standard investment. Depending on the seller’s circumstances, there may also be certain tax advantages. 

It’s important to note, however, that there are risks involved. Therefore, both buyers and sellers should seek legal and financial advice before entering into a VTB mortgage agreement to ensure all aspects are properly structured and understood. If interested, we can refer you to the appropriate professionals for help. 

 

  1. USE A PROVEN PROPERTY MARKETING PLAN

Gone are the days when it was enough to put a “for sale” sign in your yard and place a listing on the MLS. A strategic marketing plan is now essential to get your home in front of as many interested and qualified buyers as possible. 

The truth is, buyers who don’t know about your house can’t make an offer. That’s why we utilize a multi-step approach to marketing that starts with identifying your target audience, effectively positioning your home in the market, and communicating its unique value. We then use a variety of distribution channels to connect with potential buyers and performance-based metrics to monitor and improve our campaign results. 

Our proven approach can have a big impact on the success of your sale. Reach out to learn more about our multi-step marketing plan and discuss how we can use it to generate interest and offers for your home. 

 

  1. WORK WITH AN AGENT WHO UNDERSTANDS YOUR AREA

To get the best offers possible, you need a real estate agent who knows your area inside and out.  Any agent can pull comparable sales data, but in a quickly-evolving market, even the latest comps can lag the current market reality. We have our fingers on the pulse of the local market because we’re working directly with sellers like you. We also represent local buyers who are active in the market, searching for homes like yours. 

That puts us in an ideal position to help you price your home for a quick sale and maximum profit. And since we hear first-hand what local buyers want, we can help you prep your home to broaden its appeal and highlight its most-coveted features. Additionally, we can use our extensive network of local agents to solicit feedback and get your home in front of more potential buyers. 

All of these factors can add up to a significant difference in your profit: According to a U.S.-based study, in 2021, the typical home sold by owner went for $225,000 compared to a median price of $330,000 for agent-assisted home sales. 

 

LET’S GET MOVING 

Are you ready to get a great offer for your home? Our multifaceted approach can help you maximize your real estate returns. Reach out for a free home value assessment and customized sales plan to get started! 

 

The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only.  It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.

 Be sure to reach out to Nicole Shantz – Sales Representative for The Riz Team and discuss the current market conditions

Nicole Shantz

Sales Representative

Book a call with me! Click https://linktr.ee/NicoleShantz

c. 519.591.7413

o. 519.578.7300

e. nicole@therizteam.com

w. www.therizteam.com

a. 71 Weber St. E., Kitchener, Ontario, N2H 1C6 

Sources: 

National Post – https://nationalpost.com/moneywise-pro/high-interest-rates-are-still-a-problem-for-potential-homebuyers-here-is-advice-for-navigating-the-real-estate-market 

Bankrate – https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/prelisting-inspection/ 

RE/MAX Canada – https://blog.remax.ca/best-home-renovations-biggest-roi/ 

Journal of Real Estate Research – https://www.researchgate.net/publication/5142154_Landscaping_and_House_Values_An_Empirical_Investigation 

National Association of Realtors – https://www.nar.realtor/infographics/staged-for-success 

The Balance – https://www.thebalancemoney.com/looking-twice-at-overpriced-homes-1798671 

Real Estate Magazine – https://realestatemagazine.ca/the-return-of-the-vendor-take-back-mortgage/ 

RE/MAX Canada – https://blog.remax.ca/how-to-take-advantage-of-the-vendor-take-back-mortgage/ 

National Association of Realtors – https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/quick-real-estate-statistics

Kitchener Waterloo Market Snapshot August 2023

Wednesday, September 6th, 2023

Soft Home Sales in August Coupled with Strong Listing Activity

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 EvaluationClick Here

Click Here to Evaluate your home

WATERLOO REGION, ON (September 6, 2023) — In August, there were 568 homes sold through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR), representing a decrease of 14.2 per cent compared to the previous year and a decline of 23.5 per cent compared to the previous 5-year average for the month.

“For the first time in a decade we saw August’s home sales slip under the 600-unit mark,” says Megan Bell, president of WRAR.”  “Home sales were softer than normal last month, which is not surprising given the current borrowing environment.”

Total residential sales in August included 315 detached (down 24.1 per cent from August 2022), and 134 townhouses (up 12.6 per cent). Sales also included 74 condominium units (up 10.4 per cent) and 44 semi-detached homes (down 27.9 per cent).

In August, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $761,377. This represents a 1.4 per cent increase compared to August 2022 and a 4.4 per cent decrease compared to July 2023.

  • The average price of a detached home was $884,390. This represents a 3.9 per cent increase from August 2022 and a decrease of 3.9 per cent compared to July 2023.
  • The average sale price for a townhouse was $659,704. This represents a 8.0 per cent increase from August 2022 and a decrease of 1.7 per cent compared to July 2023.
  • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $485,205. This represents an increase of 4.1 per cent from August 2022 and a decrease of 2.3 per cent compared to July 2023.
  • The average sale price for a semi was $669,044. This represents an increase of 2.0 per cent compared to August 2022 and a decrease of 0.3 per cent compared to July 2023.

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.

August Average Sales Price - By Property Type 09062023

MLS® Home Price Index Benchmark Price

  Kitchener-Waterloo Cambridge
Benchmark Type: August 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change August 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change
Composite $745,100 -2.6 1.1 $758,000 -0.9 1.4
Detached $846,900 -2.5 3.3 $788,100 -1.1 3.3
Townhouse $634,900 -2.1 1.4 $669,300 0.9 -5.5
Apartment $475,400 -2.0 -5.2 $501,000 1.7 -12.4
HPI August 2023

“Home buyers had the advantage of strong listing activity in August, which helped to provide a little more choice and temper prices,” says Bell. “But affordability remains a top concern for many who are looking to get into the market and finding it a challenge to resolve what they want with what they can afford.”

WRAR’s president points out that while market-wide, inventory levels were up 7.6 per cent in August, this was mainly due to the Townhouse/Condo segment, where inventory increased by 35.3 per cent. The property type with the most supply in the market is the condo segment with 3.3 months supply, compared to 1.8 months supply in the detached home category.

“Right now, buyers may find it easier to get into a condominium, which can be a great choice for both first time buyers, and anyone looking for a lifestyle change.”

There were 1,025 new listings added to the MLS® System in Waterloo Region last month, an increase of 9.7 per cent compared to August of last year and a 11.7 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for August.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of August was 1,094, an increase of 7.6 per cent compared to August of last year and 14.9 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1431 listings for August.

There were 2.0 months of inventory at the end of August, unchanged from the end of July and in line with 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 August was 19, compared to 23 days in August 2022. The previous 5-year average is 21 days.

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

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

August Average Sales Price
August Average Sales Price - Township 09062023
Sales By Property Type 09062023
Supply of Homes 09062023
Median Sales - By Property type 09062023
Average Sales Price - By Property Type 09062023
Average Days on Market 09062023

Kitchener Waterloo Market Snapshot June 2023

Thursday, July 6th, 2023

Waterloo Region Real Estate Market Shows Resilience With Increase in Home Sales and Average Prices

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 EvaluationClick Here

WATERLOO REGION, ON (July 6, 2023) — In June, there were 780 homes sold through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR), representing an increase of 4.6 per cent compared to the previous year and a decline of 12.3 per cent compared to the previous 5-year average for the month.

“The real estate market in Waterloo Region showed signs of a rebound in June, with monthly sales increasing on a year-over-year basis for the first time this year,” says Megan Bell, president of WRAR. “The total number of home sales are down nearly 25 per cent for the first half of 2023 compared to last year but have been steadily climbing since January.”

Total residential sales in June included 468 detached (up 5.9 per cent from June 2022), and 149 townhouses (up 4.9 per cent). Sales also included 118 condominium units (up 22.9 per cent) and 42 semi-detached homes (down 32.3 per cent).

In June, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $839,869. This represents a 6.4 per cent increase compared to June 2022 and a 2.0 per cent increase compared to May 2023.

  • The average price of a detached home was $1,005,519. This represents a 10.4 per cent increase from June 2022 and an increase of 4.1 per cent compared to May 2023.
  • The average sale price for a townhouse was $665,984. This represents a 0.2 per cent increase from June 2022 and a decrease of 4.4 per cent compared to May 2023.
  • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $470,163. This represents a decrease of 6.2 per cent from June 2022 and a decrease of 3.3 per cent compared to May 2023.
  • The average sale price for a semi was $691,507. This represents a decrease of 1.1 per cent compared to June 2022 and a decrease of 5.0 per cent compared to May 2023.

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.

June average sales price by property type

MLS® Home Price Index Benchmark Price

  Kitchener-Waterloo Cambridge
Benchmark Type: June 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change June 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change
Composite $777,800 0.1 -2.0 $778,600 -1.6 -3.4
Detached $889,400 0.2 0.7 $815,300 -1.9 -1.0
Townhouse $645,200 1.7 -5.9 $660,100 1.2 -14.7
Apartment $479,000 -1.8 -8.7 $481,900 0.2 -16.6

 

June 2023 HPI Graph

“In June we saw robust demand for detached properties, driving a significant 10.5 per cent increase in the average sale price of a detached home,” says Bell. “While the central bank raised its benchmark interest rate to 4.75 per cent near the beginning of the month, demand remains strong. Buyers and sellers can expect a competitive market as the number of homes for sale continues to be well below the long-term average,” says Bell.

There were 1,321 new listings added to the MLS® System in Waterloo Region last month, a decrease of 21.6 per cent compared to June of last year and a 3.5 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 1007, a decrease of 23.1 per cent compared to June of last year and 32.8 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1499 listings for June.

The number of months of inventory is up 5.9 per cent compared to June of last year, but still historically low at 1.8 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 June was 15, compared to 13 days in June 2022. The previous 5-year average is 17 days.

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 By Municipality
Average sales price by 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

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.

 

Kitchener Waterloo Market Snapshot April 2023

Thursday, May 4th, 2023

Demand Remains Strong as Home Prices Increase Month-Over-Month

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 EvaluationClick Here

WATERLOO REGION, ON (May 4, 2023) — Sales volume through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR) remained subdued last month, with 670 homes sold in April, representing a decrease of 22.0 per cent compared to April 2022 and 18.0 percent below the previous 5-year average for the month.

“The local spring market is off to a slower than usual start with half the number of new listings hitting the market than this time last year,” says Megan Bell, president of WRAR. “However, with demand continuing to outstrip supply, we saw prices increase on a month-over-month basis as total sales volume continues to waver well below historical figures for the month of April.”

Total residential sales in April included 404 detached (down 22.8 per cent from April 2022), and 119 townhouses (down 20.7 per cent). Sales also included 95 condominium units (down 18.1 per cent) and 51 semi-detached homes (down 25.0 per cent).

In April, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $797,716. This represents an 11.9 per cent decrease compared to April 2022 and a 2.6 per cent increase compared to March 2023.

  • The average price of a detached home was $925,219. This represents a 10.7 per cent decrease from April 2022 and an increase of 1.7 per cent compared to March 2023.
  • The average sale price for a townhouse was $664,519. This represents a 12.7 per cent decrease from April 2022 and an increase of 3.9 per cent compared to March 2023.
  • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $488,971. This represents a decrease of 18.3 per cent from April 2022 and an increase of 1.5 per cent compared to March 2023.
  • The average sale price for a semi was $686,792. This represents a decrease of 10.1 per cent compared to April 2022 and a decrease of 1.9 per cent compared to March 2023.

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.

WR April 2023 Price Chart

MLS® Home Price Index Benchmark Price

Kitchener-Waterloo Cambridge
Benchmark Type: April 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change April 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change
Composite $759,600 2.7 -14.7 $774,500 3.8 -12.8
Detached $865,100 3.0 -13.0 $809,300 4.3 -12.0
Townhouse $611,600 1.9 -20.3 $647,000 0.8 -17.1
Apartment $484,900 2.3 -13.4 $491,900 1.8 -16.0

 

April 2023 HPI Image for Stats Release

 

“Waterloo Region remains a sellers’ market, and while prices have fallen in comparison to last year, we anticipate that home prices will continue to increase steadily,” says Bell. “Some stability in mortgage rates has brought about a return of buyer activity as we begin to observe a return of multiple offer scenarios, bidding wars, and a decrease in the number of days properties take to sell.”

There were 869 new listings added to the MLS® System in Waterloo Region last month, a decrease of 49.4 per cent compared to April of last year and a 33.2 per cent decrease 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, a decrease of 25.9 per cent compared to April of last year and 49.7 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1397 listings for April.

The number of months of inventory is up 8.3 per cent compared to April of last year, but still historically low at 1.3 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 April was 16, compared to 9 days in April 2022. The previous 5-year average is 16 days.

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 Municipalities
Average Sales Price Townships
Monthly Sales by Property Type
Monthly Supply of Homes for Sale
Median Sales Price by Property Type
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.

Kitchener Waterloo Market Snapshot February 2023

Friday, March 3rd, 2023

Home Sales Down, Prices Stabilizing in February

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 EvaluationClick Here

WATERLOO REGION, ON (March 3, 2023) —Sales volume through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR) set a low for the month of February, with 439 homes sold, representing a decrease of 45.0 per cent compared to February 2022 and 31.5 per cent below the previous 5-year average for the month.

“Once again, we experienced record low listing sales in February,” says Megan Bell, president of WRAR. “Increased borrowing costs, coupled with a shortage of housing supply and strong demand, have put a strain on prospective buyers as affordability continues to be a top concern; however, home prices have remained stable for the past several months.”

Total residential sales in February included 256 detached (down 45.3 per cent from February 2022), and 100 townhouses (down 33.3 per cent). Sales also included 55 condominium units (down 52.6 per cent) and 28 semi-detached homes (down 56.3 per cent).

In February, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $758,698. This represents a 25.1 per cent decrease compared to February 2022 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to January 2023.

  • The average price of a detached home was $877,884. This represents a 26.0 per cent decrease from February 2022 and a decrease 0.9 per cent compared to January 2023.
  • The average sale price for a townhouse was $642,777. This represents a 25.6 per cent decrease from February 2022 and an increase of 2.7 per cent compared to January 2023.
  • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $461,322. This represents a decrease of 19.2 per cent from February 2022 and a decrease of 6.9 per cent compared to January 2023.
  • The average sale price for a semi was $667,250. This represents a decrease of 25.8 per cent compared to February 2022 and an increase of 2.6 per cent compared to January 2023.

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.

Febstats1

MLS® Home Price Index Benchmark Price

  Kitchener-Waterloo Cambridge
Benchmark Type: February 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change February 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change
Composite $726,500 3.0 -24.2 $742,300 1.6 -25.3
Detached $822,800 4.2 -24.8 $770,800 1.8 -27.0
Townhouse $588,500 0.9 -22.3 $637,400 -0.2 -13.8
Apartment $473,800 -1.6 -14.3 $492,100 0.9 -7.6

 

 

“Limited supply and the small number of listings coming to the market continues to be a trend within the region,” says Bell. “There may be some hesitation for those considering selling their property due to decreased reported sale prices; however, with demand continuing to outpace supply and prices stabilizing, sellers are in a healthy position to make their move.”

Bell points out that although prices have fallen more than 20 per cent from their peak in February 2022, they remain significantly higher than three years ago.

There were 671 new listings added to the MLS® System in Waterloo Region last month, a decrease of 37.1 per cent compared to February of last year and a 24.8 per cent decrease compared to the previous ten-year average for February.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of February was 692, an increase of 75.2 per cent compared to February of last year and 38.0 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1117 listings for February.

The number of months of inventory is up 140.0 per cent compared to February of last year, but still historically low at 1.2 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 February was 20, compared to 8 days in February 2022. The previous 5-year average is 16 days.

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

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

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Kitchener Waterloo Market Snapshot January 2023

Friday, February 3rd, 2023

Number of Home Sales in January Exceptionally Low

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 EvaluationClick Here

WATERLOO REGION, ON (February 3, 2023) —The number of homes sold last month through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR) totalled 297 units, a decrease of 41.9 per cent compared to January 2022 and 31.0 per cent below the previous 5-year average for the month.

“Waterloo Region’s home sales in January were at their second lowest of any single month in well over a decade,” says Megan Bell, president of WRAR. “Home sales tend to be sluggish in January, and while we expected activity to ease to reflect economic challenges, this was a larger drop than originally anticipated.”

Total residential sales in January included 176 detached (down 38.5 per cent from January 2022), and 61 townhouses (down 44.5 per cent). Sales also included 43 condominium units (down 48.2 per cent) and 17 semi-detached homes (down 46.9 per cent).

In January, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $764,063. This represents a 20.1 per cent decrease compared to January 2022 and a 5.9 per cent increase compared to December 2022.

  • The average price of a detached home was $888,487. This represents a 21.5 per cent decrease from January 2022 and an increase of 7.6 per cent compared to December 2022.
  • The average sale price for a townhouse was $625,831. This represents a 26.1 per cent decrease from January 2022 and an increase of 2.2 per cent compared to December 2022.
  • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $495,753. This represents a decrease of 9.3 per cent from January 2022 and an increase of 6.1 per cent compared to December 2022.
  • The average sale price for a semi was $650,588. This represents a decrease of 21.5 per cent compared to January 2022 and an increase of 5.5 per cent compared to December 2022.
january average sales price by property type

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: January 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change January 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change
Composite $705,100 -1.2 -23.7

$731,000

2.4 -21.3
Detached $789,900 -1.4 -25.9 $757,200 2.9 -23.2
Townhouse $583,100 -1.8 -17.6 $638,300 -0.2 -8.0
Apartment $481,300 2.0 -5.1 $487,600 -1.9 -4.3

“On a monthly basis, we saw the average sale price increase across all property types in January,” says Bell. “I’m also noticing more multiple offers happening, especially on detached homes that are priced under eight hundred thousand dollars.”

Meanwhile, the Bank of Canada again increased interest rates at the end of January by 25 basis points to 4.5 per cent. “While not a huge increase, the continuance of interest rate hikes is an ongoing factor in the reduction of home sales within the market,” says Bell.

There were 579 new listings added to the MLS® System in Waterloo Region last month, a decrease of 13.3 per cent compared to January of last year and a 28.7 per cent decrease compared to the previous ten-year average for January.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of January was 651, an increase of 167.9 per cent compared to January of last year and 34.7 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 998 listings for January.

The number of months of inventory is up 233.3 per cent compared to January of last year, but still historically low at one month. Between 2011 and 2015, January’s average months of inventory was 3.0 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 January was 25, compared to 9 days in January 2022. The previous 5-year average is 21 days.

WRAR’s president says, “The demographic of buyers is also shifting as we observe fewer buyers coming from the GTA into the region.  While there are still some, it is nowhere like it was last January. These and other shifting influences mean it has never been more important for buyers and sellers to work with a local REALTOR® to help provide expertise during the homebuying and selling process.”

Affordability, combined with ongoing supply constraints, makes it difficult for buyers to navigate the continuous market changes while sellers also need to adjust to the evolving circumstances. 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://wrar.ca/hpi/

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

jan average sales prce
jan average sales townships
sales by property type
monthly supply of homes for sale
median sales price property type
average sales price by property type
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.

 

Kitchener Waterloo Market Snapshot & Yearly Summary December 2022

Thursday, January 5th, 2023

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 EvaluationClick Here

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.

Kitchener Waterloo Market Snapshot November 2022

Friday, December 2nd, 2022

Waterloo Region Home Prices Continue to Cool in November

“Home sales continued to decrease in November, as they traditionally do at this time of year,” “At the same time, we know ever-increasing homeownership costs are contributing to the decline and putting downward pressure on sales prices which have plateaued since July.”

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 EvaluationClick Here

WATERLOO REGION, ON (December 2, 2022) —The number of homes sold through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR) totaled 453 units, a decrease of 43.7 per cent compared to November 2021 and 34.2 per cent below the previous 5-year average for the month.

Total residential sales in November included 280 detached (down 38.3 per cent from November 2021), and 78 townhouses (down 57.1 per cent). Sales also included 58 condominium units (down 49.6 per cent) and 37 semi-detached homes (down 28.8 per cent).

“Home sales continued to decrease in November, as they traditionally do at this time of year,” says Megan Bell, President of WRAR. “At the same time, we know ever-increasing homeownership costs are contributing to the decline and putting downward pressure on sales prices which have plateaued since July.”

In November, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $736,024. This represents a 10.4 per cent decrease compared to November 2021 and a 3.6 per cent decrease compared to October 2022.

  • The average price of a detached home was $838,609. This represents a 13.1 per cent decrease from November 2021 and a decrease of 3.5 per cent compared to October 2022.
  • The average sale price for a townhouse was $618,669. This represents a 12.3 per cent decrease from November 2021 and a decrease of 2.6 per cent compared to October 2022.
  • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $458,384. This represents a decrease of 7.5 per cent from November 2021 and a decrease of 6.2 per cent compared to October 2022.
  • The average sale price for a semi was $642,328. This represents a decrease of 9.4 per cent compared to November 2021 and an increase of 3.2 per cent compared to October 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.

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MLS® Home Price Index Benchmark Price
  Kitchener-Waterloo Cambridge
Benchmark Type: November 2022 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change November 2022

Monthly % Change

Yr./Yr. % Change
Composite $711,200 -1.7 -12.8 $744,200 1.8 -10.6
Detached $791,000 -2.1 -14.8 $770,600 2.5 -12.0
Townhouse $602,200 -0.2 -7.0 $652,000 -1.7 -2.0
Apartment $492,600 -0.4 8.0 $504,100 -3.1 3.7

 

November 2022 HPI Image for Stats Release

“The Waterloo Region market has been moving towards more of a balanced market throughout the latter part of the year, and November followed that trend,” says Bell. “We have a long way to go before the pendulum swings into it being a buyer’s market. However, if the Bank of Canada yet again raises its key interest rate on December 7, it is likely to result in fewer buyers competing for more inventory.”

There were 752 new listings added to the MLS® System in the Waterloo Region last month, a decrease of 6.6 per cent compared to November of last year and a 1.3 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for November.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of November was 860, an increase of 209.4 per cent compared to November of last year and 29.9 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1227 listings for November.

The number of months of inventory is up 333.3 per cent compared to November of last year, but still historically low at 1.3 months. Between 2009 and 2015, November’s average months of inventory was 3.2 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 November was 21, compared to 10 days in November 2021. The previous 5-year average is 21 days.

WRAR’s president says, “It has never been more important for both buyers and sellers to work with a REALTOR® to help provide expertise during the homebuying and selling process. Affordability, combined with ongoing supply constraints, are making it difficult for buyers to navigate the continuous market changes while sellers are also having to adjust in concurrence with the evolving circumstances”.

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://wrar.ca/hpi/

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

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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.

Kitchener Waterloo Market Snapshot October 2022

Wednesday, October 5th, 2022

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 EvaluationClick Here

 

 

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.
october 2022 average sales price by property type 2

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

 

October 2022 HPI Stats Chart for Kitchener Waterloo Cambridge

“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.

October-2022-average-sale-price-by-municipality
October 2022 average sale price by township
October 2022 sales by property type
October 2022 Months Supply
October 2022 median sales price by property type
October 2022 average sale price by property type
October 2022 average days on market

Kitchener Waterloo Market Snapshot August 2022

Wednesday, September 7th, 2022

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 EvaluationClick Here

WATERLOO REGION, ON (September 7, 2022) — 659 residential homes were sold last month through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR) in August, a decrease of 8.1 per cent compared to August 2021 and 11.2 per cent below the previous 5-year average for the month.

Total residential sales in August included 413 detached (down 0.7 per cent from August 2021), and 117 townhouses (down 24.0 per cent). Sales also included 68 condominium units (down 26.1 per cent) and 61 semi-detached homes (up 10.9 per cent).

“While the number of homes sold in August was down on a year-over-year basis they were up almost 19 per cent compared to July,” says Megan Bell, president of WRAR. “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.”

In August, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $750,849. This represents a 0.4 per cent decrease compared to August 2021 and a 0.2 per cent decrease compared to July 2022.

  • The average price of a detached home was $851,654. This represents a 3.0 per cent decrease from August 2021 and an increase of 1.1 per cent compared to July 2022.
  • The average sale price for a townhouse was $610,725. This represents a 4.2 per cent decrease from August 2021 and a decrease of 5.2 per cent compared to July 2022.
  • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $464,959. This represents an increase of 4.3 per cent from August 2021 and a decrease of 10.9 per cent compared to July 2022.
  • The average sale price for a semi was $655,813. This represents a decrease of 1.0 per cent compared to August 2021 and a decrease of 0.8 per cent compared to July 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:  August 2022  Monthly % Change  Yr./Yr. % Change  August 2022  Monthly % Change  Yr./Yr. % Change 
Composite  $734,500  -1.9  -2.2  $750,700  -3.4  0.6 
Detached  $815,000  -1.5  -3.9  $764,700  -3.1  -1.3 
Townhouse  $618,400  -3.8  5.4  $715,200  -5.9  11.7 
Apartment  $513,600  -2.1  16.1  $578,500  -1.1  19.0 

 

 

“Today’s announcement by the Bank of Canada to increase its policy rate by 75 basis points to 3.25 per cent is discouraging news for borrowers as it affects their purchasing power,” says Bell. “However, we see signs that the market is moving towards more buyer-friendly conditions. REALTORS® are reporting fewer multiple offers resulting in final sale prices being closer to the asking price or with more conditions accompanying offers. Even so, with inventory still very tight, Waterloo region remains a seller’s market.”

There were 933 new listings added to the MLS® System in the Waterloo Region last month, an increase of 19.3 per cent compared to August of last year, and a 1.2 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for August.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of August was 1,003, an increase of 188.2 per cent compared to August of last year, and 31.8 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1593 listings for August.

The number of months of inventory is up 250 per cent compared to August of last year, but still historically low. There were 1.4 months of inventory in August 2022, down from 1.8 months in July 2022. 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 August was 22, compared to 12 days in August 2021. The previous 5-year average is 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://wrar.ca/hpi/

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


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