According to newly released data from Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), home sales declined year-over-year as economic uncertainty kept many buyers on the sidelines. But beneath the headlines, a more important story emerged: affordability improved, inventory stayed elevated, and negotiating power shifted back toward buyers.
For homeowners, investors, and anyone watching the GTA closely, this marks a turning point year.
GTA Home Sales Fell — But That’s Not the Whole Story
In calendar year 2025, GTA REALTORS® reported:
62,433 total home sales
⬇️ Down 11.2% compared to 2024
186,753 new listings
⬆️ Up 10.1% year-over-year
Average selling price: $1,067,968
⬇️ Down 4.7% from 2024
More listings + fewer buyers = price flexibility. Sellers had to negotiate, and buyers finally had leverage again.
As TRREB President Daniel Steinfeld noted:
“The GTA housing market became more affordable in 2025 as selling prices and mortgage rates trended lower. Improved affordability has set the market up for recovery.”
This is exactly how real estate cycles reset — quietly, not explosively.
December 2025 Snapshot: Year Ends with Stability, Not Panic
December data confirmed the trend:
3,697 home sales
⬇️ Down 8.9% vs. December 2024
5,299 new listings
⬆️ Up 1.8% year-over-year
Average price: $1,006,735
⬇️ Down 5.1% vs. last year
MLS® HPI Composite
⬇️ Down 6.3% year-over-year
On a seasonally adjusted basis, prices stabilized and even edged slightly higher month-over-month — a subtle sign that the floor may be forming.
What This Means for GTA Buyers & Homeowners in 2026
The data points to one key takeaway:
🔑 Affordability has improved — confidence is the missing piece
TRREB Chief Information Officer Jason Mercer summed it up perfectly:
“GTA households must be confident in their employment situation before committing to long-term monthly mortgage payments, even in this more affordable market.”
That’s why many savvy buyers are acting before the crowd returns — securing properties while prices are softer and competition remains muted.
Why Private & Equity-Based Financing Is Rising Right Now
With banks still cautious and underwriting tight, many GTA homeowners and buyers are turning to equity-based lending solutions, including:
Home equity loans
Second mortgages
Bridge financing
Refinance strategies to lower monthly payments
Debt consolidation using home equity
At Lendworth, we’re seeing increased demand from:
Buyers who want to move before rates drop further
Homeowners preparing for mortgage renewals
Investors positioning ahead of the next upswing
When confidence returns, prices usually move first — approvals tighten later.
Government Pressure Mounts as Cost of Living Bites
TRREB CEO John DiMichele emphasized the growing strain on households:
“We urge governments at all levels to take action now to provide tax relief for consumers and help ease the rising cost of living.”
Until that happens, many Canadians are using their existing home equity as a financial buffer — and as a strategic tool.
The Bottom Line: 2025 Reset the GTA Market — 2026 Rewards the Prepared
The GTA housing market didn’t crash in 2025.
It rebalanced.
Prices adjusted
Inventory increased
Buyers regained leverage
Opportunity quietly returned
If history is any guide, pent-up demand doesn’t disappear — it waits.
Thinking of Buying, Refinancing, or Unlocking Equity in 2026?
At Lendworth, we specialize in flexible, equity-based mortgage solutions across the GTA — even when banks say no.
📞 Call 905-597-1225
Before the headlines turn bullish again, smart money is already moving.