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Posts Tagged ‘waterloo for sale’

Bank of Canada makes second consecutive rate cut, lowers overnight lending rate to 4.50%

Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

This decrease will assist buyers by offering a better affordability plan on their monthly payments, while also helping sellers within a more active marketplace as buyers start to re-enter. Be sure to connect with anyone from The Riz Team and let’s put a plan in place for your next move….

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

Bank of Canada cuts key interest rate again, more cuts ‘reasonable’ if inflation keeps easing

For the second time in a row, Canada’s central bank has cut its overnight lending rate.

In its pre-scheduled July 2024 announcement, the Bank of Canada dropped the target for the overnight lending rate by 25 basis points to 4.50%.

While inflation remains above the Bank’s 2% target, it is expected that inflation will continue to ease as the global economy expands into 2026, bolstering the Bank’s decision to continue lowering rates.

In his opening remarks to reporters at a press conference following the announcement, Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, cited that the risk that inflation continues to grow must be balanced against the risk that the economy and inflation could weaken.

“Looking ahead, we expect inflation to moderate further, though progress over the next year will likely be uneven. This forecast reflects the opposing forces affecting inflation. The overall weakness in the economy is pulling inflation down. At the same time, price pressures in shelter and some other services are holding inflation up,” said Macklem. “We are increasingly confident that the ingredients to bring inflation back to target are in place. But the push-pull of these opposing forces means the decline in inflation will likely be gradual, and there could be setbacks along the way.”

Date* Target (%) Change (%)
July 24, 2024 4.5 -0.25
June 5, 2024 4.75 -0.25
April 10, 2024 5
March 6, 2024 5
January 24, 2024 5
December 6, 2023 5
October 25, 2023 5
September 6, 2023 5
July 12, 2023 5 0.25
June 7, 2023 4.75 0.25
April 12, 2023 4.5
March 8, 2023 4.5

According to a recent Royal LePage survey, conducted by Leger,1 51% of Canadians who put their home buying plans on hold the last two years said they would return to the market when the Bank of Canada reduced its key lending rate. Eighteen percent said they would wait for a cut of 50 to 100 basis points, and 23% said they’d need to see a cut of more than 100 basis points before considering resuming their search.

“Our research shows that many buyer hopefuls have been waiting for a concrete signal from the Bank of Canada that the economy is moving in the right direction. A second cut to the overnight lending rate indicates just that, and with mortgage qualification thresholds continuing to come down, sidelined buyers may have the confidence they need to make their return to the housing market,” said Karen Yolevski, COO of Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.

“We expect this will prompt a slight boost in activity in the short-term, followed by more robust buyer demand in the fall. In the meantime, some much-needed inventory has been building in major markets over the last few months, giving buyers more options to choose from. In addition to lower rates, this may also encourage more buyers to re-enter the market in the near future.”

The Bank of Canada will make its next announcement on Wednesday, September 4th.

Read the full July 24th report here.

Article excerpts brought to you by

Michelle McNally

Communications manager, Royal LePage

Kitchener Waterloo Market Snapshot March 2024

Thursday, April 4th, 2024

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 EvaluationClick Here

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. 

March_Average_Sales_Price-By_Property_Type

MLS® Home Price Index Benchmark Price 

  Kitchener-Waterloo  Cambridge 
Benchmark Type:  March 2024  Monthly % Change  Yr./Yr. % Change  March 2024  Monthly % Change  Yr./Yr. % Change 
Composite  $740,900  1.6  0.0  $747,500  0.7  0.9 
Detached  $853,800  1.5  1.3  $780,100  0.8  1.1 
Townhouse  $614,900  2.3  1.3  $652,400  0.6  2.4 
Apartment  $461,900  2.1  -0.7  $490,500  2.8  3.4 

March 2024 HPI Image for STats Release

“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

March_Average_Sales_Price-By_Property_Type

Average Sales Price – Township

March2024-Average_Sales_Price-By_Township

Monthly Sales By Property Type

March2024-Sales_by_Property_type

Monthly Supply of Homes for Sale

March2024-Supply_of_homes_for_sale

Monthly Supply of Homes for Sale – By Property Type

March2024-Supply_of_homes_for_sale-By_property-type

Monthly Median Sales Price – By Property Type

March2024-Median_Sales_Price-By_Property_Type

Monthly Average Sales Price – By Property Type

March2024-Average_Sales_Price-By_property_type

Monthly Average Days on Market

02.2024-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 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

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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 March 2023

Wednesday, April 5th, 2023

Home Prices Inch Up in March as We Enter the Spring 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 EvaluationClick Here
WATERLOO REGION, ON (April 5, 2023) — Sales volume through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR) set another low last month, with 611 homes sold in March, representing a decrease of 38.4 per cent compared to March 2022 and 33.6 per cent below the previous 5-year average for the month.

“Sales activity was well below average in March, and while the number of homes sold is down, sale prices have increased modestly month over month,” says Megan Bell, president of WRAR. “With borrowing costs stabilizing and lenders promoting more appealing rates, I think we will see more buyers coming off the sidelines this spring, adding demand to our already popular Waterloo Region and pushing home prices up slightly.”

Total residential sales in March included 356 detached (down 39.9 per cent from March 2022), and 126 townhouses (down 29.6 per cent). Sales also included 86 condominium units (down 32.8 per cent) and 42 semi-detached homes (down 53.3 per cent).

In March, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $779,017. This represents a 18.6 per cent decrease compared to March 2022 and a 2.4 per cent increase compared to February 2023.

  • The average price of a detached home was $910,152. This represents a 17.4 per cent decrease from March 2022 and an increase of 2.9 per cent compared to February 2023.
  • The average sale price for a townhouse was $640,484. This represents a 19.9 per cent decrease from March 2022 and a decrease of 6 per cent compared to February 2023.
  • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $482,882. This represents a decrease of 15.2 per cent from March 2022 and an increase of 5.3 per cent compared to February 2023.
  • The average sale price for a semi was $700,208. This represents a decrease of 18.2 per cent compared to March 2022 and an increase of 4.9 per cent compared to February 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.

March average sales price by property type

MLS® Home Price Index Benchmark Price

Kitchener-Waterloo Cambridge
Benchmark Type: March 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change March 2023 Monthly % Change Yr./Yr. % Change
Composite $739,400 1.8 -21.2 $746,300 0.5 -20.6
Detached $839,500 2.0 -20.4 $776,100 0.7 -21.1
Townhouse $600,500 2.0 -23.5 $641,700 0.7 -17.5
Apartment $474,000 0.1 -18.0 $483,000 -1.9 -13.5

 

“This is a peculiar market. While we certainly will not have the same volume of sales as in 2022, demand remains strong. For those that were previously hesitant to sell their properties, March’s slight uptick in sales prices is a good indication of the continued pent-up demand within the Region and we do not anticipate this slowing down anytime soon,” says Bell. “These and other shifting influences mean it has never been more important for buyers and sellers alike to work with a local REALTOR® to help provide expertise during the homebuying and selling process.”

While on a year-over-year basis, prices have come down close to 20 per cent, they are up compared to two years ago.

There were 859 new listings added to the MLS® System in Waterloo Region last month, a decrease of 44.1 per cent compared to March of last year and a 30.5 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 716, an increase of 17.2 per cent compared to March of last year and 42.4 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1243 listings for March.

The number of months of inventory is up 85.7 per cent compared to March 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 March was 19, compared to 8 days in March 2022. The previous 5-year average is 15 days.

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

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

Avg Sales Price Municipalities
Avg Sales Price Townships
Monthly Sales Price Property Type
Monthly Supply Homes for Sale
Monthly median sales price property type
monthly average sales price by property type
monthly average days on market

Kitchener Market Snapshot February 2021

Thursday, March 4th, 2021

RECORD NUMBER OF HOME SALES IN FEBRUARY

 

KITCHENER-WATERLOO, ON (Mar 4, 2021) ––There were 597 residential homes sold through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® in February, an increase of 27.8 per cent compared to February 2020, and an increase of 66.7 per cent compared to the previous month. The previous 10-year average number of residential sales for February is 407.

“Competition for homes continued to be extremely intense in February, leading to a record-breaking number of home sales for the month,” says Nicole Pohl, President of KWAR.

Total residential sales in February included 337 detached (up 23.9 per cent from February 2020), and 101 condominium units (up 57.8 per cent). Sales also included 47 semi-detached homes (up 46.9 per cent) and 112 townhouses (up 13.1 per cent).

In February, the average sale price of all residential properties sold in 2021 increased by 32.1 per cent to $752,289 compared to the same month last year. Meanwhile the average price of a detached home hit yet another new milestone by exceeding 900-thousand-dollars for the first time, coming in at $910,126 an increase of 35.4 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $415,322 for an increase of 11.9 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $609,566 (up 37.5 per cent) and $684,787 (up 41.1 per cent) respectively.

“We continued to see dramatic increases in the average price in February due to the persistent and fierce competition for homes in our region combined with short supply,” says Pohl.

The president of KWAR notes that buyers are very frustrated competing in this hyperactive market. The low inventory and mortgage rates are resulting in multiple offers, higher prices and creating a fear they are missing out on the chance to become homeowners in this unprecedented market.

“The rise in the average price we’ve been tracking the past several months has included some exceptional sale prices. That’s why this month and going forward we will also be including the MLS® HPI to provide a clearer picture of our local housing market trends.”

The MLS® HPI is a sophisticated statistical model and more stable price indicator than average or median price measures because it considers how the features of a home affects its price – such as age, number of bedrooms, and number of bathrooms.

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Kitchener-Waterloo was $709,600 in February. This represents a 27.9 per cent increase over February 2020 and a 5.6 per cent increase compared to January 2021.

The benchmark price for a detached home was $788,500. This represents a 28.8 per cent increase from February 2020 and 6.1 per cent increase compared to January 2021.

The benchmark price for an apartment-style condominium was $341,200. This represents a 13.9 per cent increase from February 2020 and a 0.1 per cent increase compared to January 2021.

The benchmark price for a townhouse is $526,700. This represents a 33.1per cent increase from February 2020 and a 6 per cent increase compared to January 2021.

There were 737 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, an increase of 21 per cent compared to February of last year, and a 15.7 per cent increase 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 295, a decrease of 33.6 per cent compared to February of last year, and 73 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1,096 listings for February.

The number of months of inventory in Waterloo region was 0.5 in February and 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 February was 10 days, compared to 17 days in February 2020 and a previous 5-year average of 33 days.

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

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 KWAR – CREA Residential Market Activity and MLS HPI Report

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

Kitchener Market Snapshot for December 2020

Thursday, January 7th, 2021

RECORD-BREAKING HOME SALES IN DECEMBER CAPS OFF AN EXCEPTIONAL 2020

KW Housing Market Remains in High Demand

 

KITCHENER-WATERLOO, ON (Jan 7, 2021) ––There were 6,492 residential homes sold through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® in 2020, an increase of 9 per cent compared to 2019. Compared to previous years, 2020’s annual sales were 5 per cent above the previous 5-year average, and 11.6 per cent above the previous 10-year average.

On a monthly basis, there were 42 per cent more home sales compared to last year, with 351 home sales in the month of December.

“December’s home sales were the highest on record for the month,” says Nicole Pohl, President of KWAR.  “This marks the sixth consecutive month of record home sales in Kitchener-Waterloo and helps propel 2020’s annual number of transactions over the 6,000-unit threshold for only the third time in our history.”

Total residential sales in December included 204 detached (up 46.7 per cent), and 63 condominium units (up 34 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e., semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 20 semi-detached homes (down 9.1 per cent) and 64 freehold townhouses (up 68.4 per cent).

For 2020, total residential sales included 3,899 detached (up 8.1 per cent), and 804 condominium units (up 18.9 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e., semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 450 semi-detached homes (up 6.8 per cent) and 1,346 freehold townhouses (up 7 per cent).

In December, the average sale price of all residential properties sold in 2020 increased by 14.4 per cent to $634,545 compared to 2019. Detached homes sold for an average price of $755,618 an increase of 11.9 per cent compared to 2019. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $383,196 for an increase of 5.4 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $514,760 (up 27.7 per cent) and $574,659 (up 20.2 per cent) respectively.

On a year-to-date basis, the average sale price of all residential properties sold in 2020 increased by 16.1 per cent to $612,521 compared to 2019. Detached homes sold for an average price of $719,203 an increase of 16.9 per cent compared to 2019. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $391,698 for an increase of 13.7 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $468,891 (up 14.6 per cent) and $520,753 (up 18.3 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold last year increased 17.3 per cent to $575,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 15.7 per cent to $660,000.

“Even well before the pandemic we had noted a trend of consumers migrating out of the GTA to our region,” says Pohl. “As the pandemic heated up it only fueled this fire more as the very concept of what home means was shifting. With more people working from home, some permanently, space has become a greater concern than ever before. When you combine this with all the other great attributes of our region, it is no surprise this occurred.”

Like many other parts of Ontario, low inventory has become a defining factor of Waterloo Region’s housing market and the new normal. The number of months of inventory remained at just 1 month or less throughout most of 2020.

For historical context, the number of months inventory in Kitchener-Waterloo between 2011 and 2015 averaged 4. Between 2016 and 2020 it was a monthly average of 1.5 months. 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 2020 was 16 days, compared to 23 days in 2019 and a previous 5-year average of 27 days.

Dollar volume of all residential real estate sold last year increased 26.5 per cent to $3.9 billion compared with 2019.

While the majority of residential MLS® System activity is properties for sale, REALTORS® are increasingly representing landlords and tenants. Last year 848 residential leases occurred through KWAR’s MLS® System, which is an increase of 13.9 per cent compared to last year.

“Looking to the year ahead, we should expect more of the same” predicts Pohl. “Real estate continues to be one of the shining lights supporting the Ontario economy, so we do not expect to see any significant efforts to try to cool the market. Buyers should continue to expect stiff competition in Waterloo Region, and for sellers, there will continue to be a strong interest for all properties entering the market. Active markets are difficult markets, but the only way for a seller to ensure they are getting the full market value of their home is through the level playing field of the KWAR MLS® System. For buyers, they should ensure they are working with a local REALTOR® to assist with the speed and challenges of this 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.

Kitchener Market Snapshot for November 2020

Thursday, December 3rd, 2020

ANOTHER RECORD-BREAKING MONTH FOR HOME SALES IN NOVEMBER

KITCHENER-WATERLOO, ON (December 3, 2020) ––There were 575 residential homes sold through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® in November, marking another record-breaking month of homes sold in the Kitchener-Waterloo area. November’s home sales represented an increase of 35 per cent compared to the same month last year, and a decrease of 17 per cent compared to the previous month. The previous ten-year average number of residential sales for November is 433.

 

November is the fifth consecutive month of record home sales in the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

 

“We are now well beyond any pent-up demand from the first lockdown,” said Nicole Pohl, President of KWAR. “Now we’re simply dealing with straight-up demand for our community as an attractive place to put down roots, and the current COVID-19 pandemic is only further fuelling the already hot market and elevating Waterloo region as a desirable place to own a home.”

 

Total residential sales in November included 341 detached homes (up 28.6 per cent from November 2019), and 82 condominium apartments (up 60.7 per cent). Sales also included 112 townhouses (up 53.4 per cent) and 40 semi-detached homes (up 5.2 per cent).

 

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in November increased 13 per cent to $637,336 compared to the same month last year, while detached homes sold for an average price of $753,641 an increase of 14.4 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $400,882 for an increase of 12 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $482,901 (up 8.6 per cent) and $562,988 (up 30.4 per cent) respectively.

 

The median price of all residential properties sold in November increased 16.5 per cent to $600,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 15 per cent to $685,000.

 

“Prices continued to climb in November as buyers across all price points compete for listings as soon as they come on the market,” said Pohl. “The number of available properties going up for sale simply can’t keep up to the number of people wanting to purchase them.”

 

There were 584 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, an increase of 34.8 per cent compared to November of last year, and 13 per cent more than the previous ten-year average for November.

 

The number of Months of Supply (also known as absorption rate) continues to be very low at just 1 month for the month of November. The previous ten-year average supply of homes for November was 3 months, and in the past 5 years, the average supply for November was 1.8 months.

 

KWAR’s president says the sales-price-to-list-price ratio for all residential properties sold in November was 107.9 per cent. “The only other time I’ve seen the sale to list ratio this high was in May of 2017 when it hit 108.6 per cent,” says Pohl.  For comparison, in 2019, the monthly close price to list price ratio was at or near 100 per cent from January through to December. Since August it has been over 105 per cent.

 

With competition this fierce, Pohl says working with a local REALTOR® has never been more important.

 

The average number of days to sell in November was 14 days, compared to 28 days in November 2019.

November home sales

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 are considering.

Kitchener Market Snapshot for October 2020

Wednesday, November 4th, 2020

 

KITCHENER-WATERLOO, ON (November 4, 2020) ––There were 691 residential homes sold through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® in October, the most ever recorded for the month. October’s home sales represented an increase of 28 per cent compared to the same month last year, and a decrease of 9.6 per cent compared to the previous month. The previous ten-year average number of residential sales for October is 471.

“This is the fourth month in a row we have set a monthly record number of home sales,” said Colleen Koehler, President of KWAR. “Demand for homes in October continued to strongly outpace supply in Kitchener-Waterloo and area.”

Total residential sales in October included 417 detached homes (up 25.6 per cent from October 2019), and 94 condominium apartments (up 34 per cent). Sales also included 134 townhouses (up 26.4 per cent) and 46 semi-detached homes (up 48.3 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in October increased 19.4 per cent to $635,301 compared to the same month last year, while detached homes sold for an average price of $742,596 an increase of 21.7 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $395,627 for an increase of 14.8 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $499,641 (up 15.6 per cent) and $539,434 (up 16.6 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in October increased 19.2 per cent to $595,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 20.5 per cent to $686,000.

“Consumers buying/selling real estate continues to be one of the few shining lights to help Ontario’s economy recover from the pandemic,” said Koehler. “We’re continuing to see more buyers than sellers, including additional buyers migrating here from out of the region looking for the quality of life this region offers.”

There were 783 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, an increase of 16 per cent compared to October of last year, and 11.5 per cent more than the previous ten-year average for October.

The number of Months Supply (also known as absorption rate) continues to be very low at just 1 month for the month of October. The previous ten-year average supply of homes for October was 3.2 months, and in the past 5 years, the average supply for October was 1.8 months.

KWAR’s president says the market we have been experiencing is extraordinary. “While our association does not track where buyers are coming through the MLS® System, I can say unequivocally we are seeing strong demand from GTA buyers. What people want and need in a home, and where they want to be located has been redefined in a very short period. Waterloo region is quite rightly, a highly desirable place to own a home.”

The average days to sell in October was 13 days, compared to 23 days in October 2019.

 

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 are considering.

Kitchener Market Snapshot for September 2020

Monday, October 5th, 2020

REALTORS® SELL A RECORD NUMBER OF HOMES IN SEPTEMBER

There were 758 residential homes sold through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® in September, the most ever recorded for the month. September’s home sales represented an increase of 41.6 per cent compared to the same month last year, and an increase of 8 per cent compared to the previous month. The previous ten-year average number of residential sales for September is 460.

“This is far more home sales then what we would normally see in September as buyers continue to play catch up from the COVID-19 hindered spring market,” said Colleen Koehler, President of KWAR. “While the pandemic has had devastating impacts on many aspects of our lives it has only solidified the importance of home and homeownership.”

Total residential sales in September included 431 detached homes (up 28.6 per cent from September 2019), and 93 condominium apartments (up 127 per cent). Sales also included 178 townhouses (up 43.5 per cent) and 54 semi-detached homes (up 59 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in September increased 17.5 per cent to $637,691 compared to the same month last year, while detached homes sold for an average price of $768,762 an increase of 25 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $390,690 for an increase of 13 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $ 476,636 (up 8.7 per cent) and $544,874 (up 16.5 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in September increased 13.7 per cent to $580,250 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 16.5 per cent to $676,000.

“We saw more new listings coming to the market in September which was welcome,” said Koehler. “However, demand continues to outpace supply.”

There were 929 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, an increase of 13 per cent compared to September of last year, and 17.7 per cent more than the previous ten-year average for September.

The number of Months Supply (also known as absorption rate) continues to be very low at just 1 month for the month of September. The previous ten-year average supply of homes for September was 3.3 months, and in the past 5 years, the average supply for September was 2.2 months.

The year-to-date number of residential sales has increased 2.6% over 2019 indicating that the decreased activity in April and May has been more than made up in the past four months.

KWAR’s president believes one of the results of the pandemic is that it has forced many employers to realize their staff can in fact work remotely. This has freed employees to migrate from some large urban areas to more affordable areas such as Waterloo Region that offers a higher quality of life.

To help encourage new listings and address our supply shortage, Ontario’s REALTORS® are asking the government to introduce a short-term Land Transfer Tax holiday. More information about this and other proposals can be read in the Ontario Real Estate Association’s (OREA) recently released policy report, Rebuilding Ontario: A Framework for Recovery.

The average days to sell in September was 14 days, compared to 23 days in September 2019.

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 are considering.


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