Friday, December 7, 2018

■Market Watch | December, 2018


GTA REALTORS® Release November Stats

December 5, 2018
 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Garry Bhaura announced the continuation of moderate price growth in November 2018 compared to November 2017. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Composite Benchmark was up by 2.7 per cent year-over-year. The average selling price was up by 3.5 per cent year-over-year to $788,345.

Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 6,251 residential transactions through TREB's MLS® System in November 2018. This result was down by 14.7 per cent compared to November 2017, when we saw a temporary upward shift in demand as the market was distorted by the looming OSFI-mandated stress test at the end of last year.

"New listings were actually down more than sales on a year-over-year basis in November. This suggests that, in many neighbourhoods, competition between buyers may have increased. Relatively tight market conditions over the past few months have provided the foundation for renewed price growth," said Mr. Bhaura.

On a preliminary seasonally adjusted basis, sales were down by 3.4 per cent compared to October 2018. The average selling price after preliminary seasonal adjustment was down by 0.8 per cent compared to October 2018.

"Home types with lower average price points have been associated with stronger rates of price growth over the past few months. Given the impact of the OSFI-mandated mortgage stress test and higher borrowing costs on affordability, it makes sense that the condo apartment and semi-detached market segments experienced relatively stronger rates of price growth in November, as market conditions in these segments remained tight or tightened respectively over the past year," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.

Thursday, November 8, 2018

■Condo & Rental Market Report | Q3 2018

Condo Market Report

October 18, 2018 
-- Toronto Real Estate Board President Garry Bhaura announced that the average selling price for condominium apartments reported sold by Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® through TREB's MLS ® System in the third quarter of 2018 was up by 8.4 per cent year-over-year to $552,269. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Apartment Benchmark Price was up by 10.1 per cent year-over-year to $506,300 in September 2018.

The highest average condominium apartment selling price was in the City of Toronto, at $594,039. This result was up 9.7% compared to Q3 2017. The MLS® HPI Apartment Benchmark Price for the City of Toronto was up by 11.5 per cent year-over-year to $535,600 in September 2018.

"Condominium apartments represent a relatively affordable home ownership option in the Greater Toronto Area, particularly for first-time buyers. Looking forward, strong demand for condo apartments should continue as people move to the GTA to take advantage of quality job opportunities, including those jobs associated with recent investment announcements from well known tech companies," said Mr. Bhaura.

Total condominium apartment sales reported through TREB's MLS® System amounted to 5,781 in Q3 2018 – up two per cent from 5,667 sales reported in Q3 2017. Conversely the number of new listings was down 2.1 per cent on a year-over-year basis. The combination of increasing sales and decreasing new listings year-over-year points to tighter market conditions, supporting the current strong annual rates of price growth.

"Recent survey results from Ipsos revealed that the vast majority of young people in the GTA are concerned about home ownership. Nearly 92% of respondents agreed that the goal of home ownership is becoming more difficult for younger people in the city. With these insights in mind, it makes sense that relatively more affordable home ownership alternatives like condo apartments have been very popular with home buyers over the past year," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.


Rental Market Report

October 18, 2018 – Toronto Real Estate Board President Garry Bhaura announced that Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® continued to report robust average annual rent increases for condominium apartments during the third quarter 2018 compared to Q3 2017. The overall number of lease transactions for condominium apartments was also up by 5.8 per cent year-over-year to 9,215 in Q3 2018.

“Sustained population growth and low unemployment continued to drive demand for condominium apartment rentals in the GTA in the third quarter. Recent major investment announcements positively impacting the GTA economy will only further cement the demand for rental housing, as people move to the GTA to take advantage of quality job opportunities,” said Mr. Bhaura. “Policy makers, including those running for election at the municipal level, need to identify and fix existing policies that are hampering the ability to bring more rental supply on line. These same policy makers also have to develop new policies that could promote the development of more rental units moving forward,” added Mr. Bhaura.

The average one bedroom condominium apartment rent increased by 9.5 per cent on a year-over-year basis to $2,163 in Q3 2018. The number of one-bedroom condominium apartments leased through TREB’s MLS® system totaled 5,344 – up 10.3 per cent compared to Q3 2017.

The average two-bedroom condominium apartment rent increased by 8.3 per cent on a year-over-year basis to $2,822 in Q3 2018. The number of two-bedroom condominium apartments leased through TREB’s MLS® System amounted to 3,289 – a 1.7 per cent decrease compared to Q3 2017.

“Average rents are continuing to increase at annual rates far beyond the rate of inflation in the GTA as rental demand remains very strong relative to the supply of units available. We will need to see a sustained period of time within which growth in the number of rental units listed outstrips growth in the number of units leased before we see the rental market return to balance. Policies like the recently expanded rent control provisions contained in the Fair Housing Plan will hinder sustained growth in the supply of rental units,” said Jason Mercer, TREB’s Director of Market Analysis.



■This Month in Real Estate | NOVEMBER 2018


■Market Watch | November, 2018


GTA REALTORS® Release October Stats

November 5, 2018 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Garry Bhaura announced year-over-year increases in home sales and average sale prices reported through TREB's MLS® System in October 2018.

Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 7,492 sales through TREB's MLS® System in October 2018 – a six per cent increase compared to October 2017. On a preliminary seasonally adjusted basis, sales were down by one per cent compared to September 2018.

The average sale price for October 2018 was up 3.5 per cent on a year-over-year basis to $807,340. After preliminary seasonal adjustment, the average selling price was up one per cent compared to September 2018. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Composite Benchmark was up by 2.6 per cent compared to October 2017. Price growth continued to be driven be the condominium apartment and higher density low-rise market segments.

"Annual sales growth has been positive since the late spring. While the OSFI stress test and higher borrowing costs have kept sales below 2016's record pace, many households in the Greater Toronto Area remain upbeat on home ownership as a quality long-term investment. A strong regional economy and steady population growth will continue to support the demand for housing ownership as we move into 2019," said Mr. Bhaura.

There were 14,431 new Listings entered into TREB's MLS® System in October 2018 – down 2.7 per cent compared to October 2017. The fact that sales were up and new listings were down year-over-year in October suggests that market conditions became tighter.

"Annual sales growth has outstripped annual growth in new listings for the last five months, underpinning the fact that listings supply remains an issue in the Greater Toronto Area. With municipal elections in the rear view mirror, all levels of government need to concentrate on policies that could remove impediments to a better-supplied housing market, including facilitating the development of a broader array of medium density housing choices," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.


Friday, October 5, 2018

■This Month in Real Estate | OCTOBER 2018


■Market Watch | October, 2018


GTA REALTORS® Release September Stats

October 3, 2018
 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Garry Bhaura announced that Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 6,455 sales through TREB's MLS® System in September 2018 – up 1.9 per cent compared to September 2017. The average selling price for September 2018 sales was up by 2.9 per cent over the same period to $796,786. The MLS® HPI composite benchmark price was up by two per cent year-over-year.

New listings entered into TREB's MLS® System in September 2018 amounted to 15,920 – down by 3.1 per cent compared to September 2017. With sales up year-over-year and new listings down, market conditions became tighter. Many buyers may have found it more difficult to find a home meeting their needs.

"It is healthy to see sales and prices in many areas across the Greater Toronto Area up a bit, compared to last year's lows. At the same, however, it is important to remember that TREB's market area is made up of over 500 communities. Market conditions have obviously unfolded differently across these communities. This is why it's important to work with a REALTOR® who is familiar with local market conditions in your areas of interest," said Mr. Bhaura.

"While higher borrowing costs and tougher mortgage qualification rules have kept sales levels off the record pace set in 2016, many households remain positive about home ownership as a quality long-term investment. As the GTA population continues to grow, the real challenge in the housing market will be supply rather than demand. The Toronto Real Estate Board is especially concerned with issues affecting housing supply as we move towards municipal elections across the region," added Mr. Bhaura.

On a monthly basis, after preliminary seasonal adjustment, sales edged up by 0.2 per cent in September 2018 compared to August 2018. The average selling price, after preliminary seasonal adjustment, edged lower by 0.5 per cent month-over-month.

"Generally speaking, annual rates of price growth have been stronger for higher density home types in 2018, including condominium apartments, townhouses and semi-detached houses. In many neighbourhoods, these home types provide more affordable home ownership options. This is why a policy focus on increasing mid-density housing options throughout the GTA is important," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.

Monday, September 10, 2018

■Market Watch | September, 2018

GTA REALTORS® Release August Stats

September 6, 2018 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Garry Bhaura announced sales and price increases on a year-over-year basis in August. Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 6,839 sales through TREB's MLS® System in August 2018 – an 8.5 per cent increase compared to August 2017.

Both the average selling price, at $765,270, and the MLS® Home Price Index Composite Benchmark for August 2018 were up compared to the same month in 2017, by 4.7 per cent and 1.5 per cent respectively. The average selling price increased by more than the MLS® HPI Composite due, at least in part, to a change in the mix of sales compared to last year. Detached home sales were up by double digits on a year-over-year percentage basis – substantially more than many other less-expensive home types.

"It is encouraging to see a continued resurgence in the demand for ownership housing. Many home buyers who had initially moved to the sidelines due to the Ontario Fair Housing Plan and new mortgage lending guidelines have renewed their search for a home and are getting deals done much more so than last year. In a region where the economy remains strong and the population continues to grow, ownership housing remains a solid long-term investment," said Mr. Bhaura.

Month-over-month sales and price growth also continued in August. On a preliminary seasonally adjusted basis, August 2018 sales were up by two per cent compared to July 2018. The seasonally adjusted August 2018 average selling price was down slightly by 0.2 per cent compared to July 2018, following strong monthly increases in May, June and July.

"Market conditions in the summer of 2018, including this past August, were tighter than what was experienced in the summer of 2017. In August, the annual rate of sales growth outpaced the annual rate of new listings growth. We only have slightly more than two-and-a-half months of inventory in the TREB market area as a whole and less than two months of inventory in the City of Toronto. This means that despite the fact the sales remain off the record highs from 2016 and 2017, many GTA neighbourhoods continue to suffer from a lack of inventory. This could present a problem if demand continues to accelerate over the next year, which is expected," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.

Monday, August 20, 2018

■Market Watch | August, 2018


GTA REALTORS® Release July Stats

August 3, 2018
- Toronto Real Estate Board President Garry Bhaura announced strong growth in the number of home sales and the average selling price reported by Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® in July 2018.

"Home sales result in substantial spin-off benefits to the economy, so the positive results over the last two months are encouraging. However, no one will argue that housing supply remains an issue. The new provincial government and candidates for the upcoming municipal elections need to concentrate on policies focused on enhancing the supply of housing and reducing the upfront tax burden represented by land transfer taxes, province-wide and additionally in the City of Toronto," said Mr. Bhaura.

Residential sales reported through TREB's MLS® System for July 2018 amounted to 6,961 – up 18.6 per cent compared to July 2017. Over the same period, the average selling price was up by 4.8 per cent to $782,129, including a moderate increase for detached home types. New listings in July 2018 were down by 1.8 per cent year-over-year.

Preliminary seasonal adjustment pointed to strong month-over-month increases of 6.6 per cent and 3.1 per cent respectively for sales and average price. Seasonally adjusted sales were at the highest level for 2018 and the seasonally adjusted average price reached the highest level since May 2017.

The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Composite Benchmark for July 2018 was down slightly compared to July 2017. However, the annual growth rate looks to be trending toward positive territory in the near future.

"We have certainly experienced an increase in demand for ownership housing so far this summer. It appears that some people who initially moved to the sidelines due to the psychological impact of the Fair Housing Plan and changes to mortgage lending guidelines have re-entered the market. Home buyers in the GTA recognize that ownership housing is a quality long-term investment," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.

Wednesday, August 1, 2018

■Condo & Rental Market Report | Q2 2018


Condo Market Report

Average Condo Price Continues to Climb in Q2 '18
July 17, 2018 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Garry Bhaura announced that the average selling price for condominium apartments sold through TREB's MLS® System in the second quarter of 2018 was up by 5.4 per cent year-over-year to $561,338.

The highest average selling price was in the City of Toronto, at $603,480 – up 6.5 per cent compared to Q2 2017.

"Condominium apartments have outperformed other housing types over the past year, in terms of price growth. It has been a seller's market in many neighbourhoods for this home type, which is why we have continued to report average price growth more than twice the rate of inflation," said Mr. Bhaura.

Condominium apartment sales through TREB's MLS® System amounted to 6,837 in Q2 2018 – down 16.5 per cent from 8,188 sales reported in Q2 2017. However, the number of new condominium apartment listings was down by 15.9 per cent on a year-over-year basis. The fact that sales and new listings were down by similar annual rates suggests that market conditions have remained similar over the past year, which has supported continued price growth.

"First time buyers continue to be a key driver of condominium apartment demand. The relative affordability of condos versus low-rise home types, especially with the onset of stricter mortgage qualification guidelines and generally higher borrowing costs, has also been a key factor underpinning tight condo market conditions and continued average price growth," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.


Rental Market Report

Strong Condo Rent Growth Continued in Q2 2018
July 17, 2018 – Toronto Real Estate Board President Garry Bhaura announced that Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® continued to report strong average rent increases for GTA condominium apartments rented through TREB’s MLS® System in the second quarter of 2018 relative to Q2 2017. “The demand for condominium apartment rentals remained strong compared to the number of units available for rent. Current market conditions point to the fact that renters have little choice when it comes to finding a place to live. Governments need to look at ways to increase the supply of rental accommodation, both in terms of purpose-built rental properties and individual investor-held units. This would go a long way to easing the pace of rent growth in the GTA,” said Mr. Bhaura. The average one-bedroom condominium apartment rent increased by 10.4 per cent on a year-over-year basis to $2,055 in Q2 2018. The number of one-bedroom condominium apartments rented through TREB’s MLS® System amounted to 4,879 – a 2.9 per cent decrease compared to Q2 2017. The average two-bedroom condominium apartment rent increased by 8.8 per cent on a year-over-year basis to $2,755 in Q2 2018. The number of two-bedroom condominium apartments rented through TREB’s MLS® System amounted to 3,104 – a 1.2 per cent increase compared to Q2 2017. “Recent government policy changes, including rent controls, have not alleviated the strong upward pressure on monthly rents for available condominium apartments in the GTA. New, investor-held condominium apartments entering the market have not been enough to provide the needed balance in the condo rental market. As a result, the strong competition between renters continues to sustain double-digit or near-double-digit annual average rent increases,” said Jason Mercer, TREB’s Director of Market Analysis.

Thursday, July 5, 2018

■Market Watch | July, 2018


GTA REALTORS® Release June Stats

July 5, 2018 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Garry Bhaura, in his first market release as TREB President, is pleased to announce some positive signs with respect to the housing market.

Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 8,082 home sales through TREB's MLS® System in June 2018 – up 2.4 per cent compared to the low June 2017 result. After preliminary seasonal adjustment, sales were also up 17.6 per cent on a monthly basis between May 2018 and June 2018, continuing the trend of somewhat volatile month-over-month changes over the past year as home buyers reacted to various policy changes impacting the market.

"Home ownership has proven to be a positive long-term investment. After some adjustment to the Fair Housing Plan, the new Office of The Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) stress test requirement and generally higher borrowing costs, home buyers are starting to move back into the market, with sales trending up from last year's lows. Market conditions appear to be tightening, with sales accounting for a greater share of listings, as new listings have dropped compared to last year," said Mr. Bhaura.

The average selling price edged up by two per cent on a year-over-year basis to $807,871 in June 2018. After preliminary seasonal adjustment, the average selling price was also up by 3.3 per cent month-over-month between May 2018 and June 2018. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) was down by 4.8 per cent on a year-over-year basis, but remained basically flat month-over-month. The difference in the year-over-year rates of change between the average price and the MLS® HPI was likely due, at least in part, to a change in the mix of properties sold in June 2018 compared to June 2017, with low-rise home types accounting for a greater share of sales in June 2018.

"The expectation is to see improvement in sales over the next year. Over the same period, however, it is likely that issues surrounding the supply of listings will persist. This suggests that competition between buyers could increase, exerting increased upward pressure on home prices. With a new provincial government in place and municipal elections on the horizon, housing supply should be top-of-mind for policy makers," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis and Service Channels.

Monday, June 18, 2018

■This Month in Real Estate | JUNE 2018


■Market Watch | June, 2018


GTA REALTORS® Release May Stats

June 4, 2018
 -- Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 7,834 sales through TREB's MLS® System in May 2018. This result was down by 22.2 per cent compared to May 2017. While the number of sales was down year-over-year, the annual rate of decline was less than reported in February, March and April, when sales were down by more than 30 per cent. On a month-over-month basis, seasonally adjusted May sales were basically flat compared to April.

Supply of homes available for sale continued to be an issue. New listings were down by 26.2 per cent. The fact that new listings were down by more than sales in comparison to last year means that competition increased between buyers. Recent polling conducted by Ipsos for TREB suggests that listing intentions are down markedly since the fall.

"Home ownership remains a sound long-term investment. Unfortunately, many home buyers are still finding it difficult find a home that meets their needs. In a recent Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis study undertaken for the Toronto Real Estate Board, it was found that many people are over-housed in Ontario, with over five million extra bedrooms. These people don't list their homes for sale, because they feel there are no alternative housing types for them to move into. Policy makers need to focus more on the 'missing middle' – home types that bridge the gap between detached houses and condominium apartments," said Mr. Syrianos.

The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Composite Benchmark was down by 5.4 per cent year-over-year. The average selling price for all home types combined was down by 6.6 per cent to $805,320. On a seasonally adjusted basis, the average selling price was up by 1.1 per cent compared to April 2018.

"Market conditions are becoming tighter in the Greater Toronto Area and this will provide support for home prices as we move through the second half of 2018 and into 2019. There are emerging indicators pointing toward increased competition between buyers, which generally leads to stronger price growth. In the City of Toronto, for example, average selling prices were at or above average listing prices for all major home types in May," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.

Friday, May 25, 2018

Exciting Upcoming Release, “Sugar Wharf Condominiums” by Menkes



Did you know…
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Bitter winds and harsh climates are an inescapable fact of Canadian living. And when the cold is a predominate part of life, connectivity becomes a much sought-after luxury. Perhaps more than ever before, people are looking to invest in communities where everything they need comes with convenience – sans slush and cutting wind. Enter Toronto’s indoor PATH pedestrian system – the world’s largest underground shopping complex. On cold winter days you can walk to work, do your banking, visit the doctor and even see a movie without ever having to set one foot outside.

This 30-kilometre network, rivaling West Edmonton Mall in size, includes 1,200 shops and services, restaurants, and endless entertainment; the epitome of convenient urban living. The PATH is truly the heart of Toronto’s financial and entertainment districts, with connections to 80 buildings, 6 downtown subway stations, 9 hotels and tourist destinations like the Air Canada Centre, Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto Eaton Centre shopping centre, and CN Tower.

As Toronto continues to thrive, its global appeal is helping it attract more than 100,000 new residents per year, and many of these people want to work and live downtown. Given this rapid growth, it’s no wonder that the world’s largest underground city is about to get even bigger as well. As part of the new Sugar Wharf community by Menkes, the PATH network is set to expand east of Yonge Street, into the downtown waterfront’s South Innovation District.

Menkes is reimagining Toronto’s Downtown Waterfront with Sugar Wharf Condominiums, part of an 11.5-acre community that will include luxury residences, offices, restaurants and shops, a two-acre park, and new school. Once complete, Sugar Wharf will be the largest mixed-use development on the Toronto Waterfront; home to 7,500 residents and 4,000 office workers.

The comprehensive project aims to seamlessly connect residents and office workers to all parts of the downtown core through the PATH, adding to the 5,000 people who already work in the PATH and over 200,000 commuters that pass through it daily. The PATH also provides access to Union Station, the largest transit hub in the Greater Toronto Area, with connections to the TTC subway, GO Train, Via Rail, and the UP (Union Pearson) Express. Residents living at Sugar Wharf on the PATH will be able to take advantage of the UP Express to travel to Pearson International Airport in a quick 25-minute ride. Traveling to your dream tropical destination during the winter months will be easier than ever before. Imagine being able to wear shorts and a t-shirt from home right up until the moment you board your flight without ever putting on your 10-pound winter jacket!

With Sugar Wharf’s PATH extension, it will be possible to walk indoors from the waterfront, all the way to Toronto’s world class Financial District. Equally connected to the city as it is to nature, Sugar Wharf will revolutionize how Torontonians live, work and play.


REFERENCE: MENKES ADVERTORIAL MAY 18 2018

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

■This Month in Real Estate | MAY 2018


■Condo & Rental Market Report | Q1 2018


Condo Market Report
Strong Price Growth Continues in Condo Segment

April 16, 2018 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Tim Syrianos announced that the average selling price for condominium apartments sold through TREB's MLS® System was up by nine per cent year-over-year to $533,447 in the first quarter of 2018.

While the number of condominium apartment sales reported by Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® in the first quarter was down by 29.7 per cent year-over-year to 5,084, so too were the number of new listings, which were down by 11.1 per cent annually to 8,030.

"Seller's market conditions for condominium apartments remained firmly in place in the first quarter of 2018. Strong competition between buyers underpinned price growth well above the rate of inflation. We expect the condo market segment to remain strong through the remainder of 2018 and over the longer term, as buyers continue to see ownership housing as a quality long-term investment," said Mr. Syrianos.

Inventory levels for condominium apartments in the first quarter of 2018 were above the record lows experienced during the first three months of 2017. However, with months of inventory continuing to trend between 1.5 and 2.0 months, market conditions remain very tight from a historic perspective.
"The condominium apartment market segment continues to have the lowest price point on average compared to other major low-rise home types. It stands to reason that condos remain popular with first-time buyers. Strong demand relative to supply will see this segment perform well from a pricing standpoint for the remainder of 2018 and beyond," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.


Rental Market Report
Above-Inflation Rent Increases Continue in Q1 2018

April 16, 2018 – Toronto Real Estate Board President Tim Syrianos announced that average rents for one-bedroom and two-bedroom condominium apartment rental units were up well above the rate of inflation on a year-over-year basis in the first quarter of 2018. The average rent for one-bedroom condominium apartments in the TREB market area was up 11.4 per cent on an annual basis to $1,995. The average two-bedroom condominium apartment rent was up by 9.1 per cent over the same time period to $2,653. “The GTA continues to be one of the most desirable locations to live in the world and will remain so over the long term. As people have moved to the region to take advantage of quality employment opportunities, rental demand has remained strong. The result has been heightened competition between renters, in an ultra-low vacancy environment, and double-digit rent growth in some market segments,” said Mr. Syrianos. The number of condominium apartments listed during the first quarter was down 11.8 per cent compared to Q1 2017. The total number of units leased was down 7.5 per cent. With a vacancy rate hovering at one percent for condominium apartments, there has been less supply available to would-be renters, which has resulted in fewer lease agreements being signed. “The low-vacancy, high rent growth situation that has unfolded in the GTA over the past year will be further exacerbated by the rent control provisions contained in the Fair Housing Plan. Some investors who, previously would have considered investing in rental units may now look elsewhere for returns on their money. This does not bode well for a sustained increase in rental supply over the long term,” said Jason Mercer, TREB’s Director of Market Analysis.

■Market Watch | May, 2018


GTA REALTORS® Release April Stats

May 3, 2018 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Tim Syrianos announced that Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 7,792 sales through TREB's MLS® System in April 2018. The average selling price was $804,584. On a year-over-year basis, sales were down by 32.1 per cent and the average selling price was down by 12.4 per cent.

The year-over-year change in the overall average selling price has been impacted by both changes in market conditions as well as changes in the type and price point of homes being purchased. This is especially clear at the higher end of the market. Detached home sales for $2 million or more accounted for 5.5 per cent of total detached sales in April 2018, versus 10 per cent in April 2017. The MLS® Home Price Index strips out the impact of changes in the mix of home sales from one year to the next. This is why the MLS® HPI Composite Benchmark was down by only 5.2 per cent year-over-year versus 12.4 per cent for the average price.

"While average selling prices have not climbed back to last year's record peak, April's price level represents a substantial gain over the past decade. Recent polling conducted for TREB by Ipsos tells us that the great majority of buyers are purchasing a home within which to live. This means these buyers are treating home ownership as a long-term investment. A strong and diverse labour market and continued population growth based on immigration should continue to underpin long-term home price appreciation," said Mr. Syrianos.

"The comparison of this year's sales and price figures to last year's record peak masks the fact that market conditions should support moderate increases in home prices as we move through the second half of the year, particularly for condominium apartments and higher density low-rise home types. Once we are past the current policy-based volatility, home owners should expect to see the resumption of a moderate and sustained pace of price growth in line with a strong local economy and steady population growth," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.

Saturday, April 7, 2018

■Market Watch | April, 2018


GTA REALTORS® Release March Stats

April 4, 2018
 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Tim Syrianos announced that Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 7,228 residential transactions through TREB's MLS® System in March 2018. This result was down by 39.5 per cent compared to a record 11,954 sales reported in March 2017 and down 17.6 per cent relative to average March sales for the previous 10 years.

The number of new listings entered into TREB's MLS® System totaled 14,866 – a 12.4 per cent decrease compared to March 2017 and a three per cent decrease compared to the average for the previous 10 years.

"TREB stated in its recent Market Outlook report that Q1 sales would be down from the record pace set in Q1 2017," said Mr. Syrianos. "The effects of the Fair Housing Plan, the new OSFImandated stress test and generally higher borrowing costs have prompted some buyers to put their purchasing decision on hold. Home sales are expected to be up relative to 2017 in the second half of this year."

The MLS Home Price Index Composite Benchmark was down by 1.5 percent on a year-over-year basis for the TREB market area as a whole. The overall average selling price was down by 14.3 per cent compared to March 2017.

While the change in market conditions certainly played a role, the dip in the average selling price was also compositional in nature. Detached home sales, which generally represent the highest price points in a given area, declined much more than other home types. In addition, the share of high-end detached homes selling for over $2 million in March 2018 was half of what was reported in March 2017, further impacting the average selling price.

"Right now, when we are comparing home prices, we are comparing two starkly different periods of time: last year, when we had less than a month of inventory versus this year with inventory levels ranging between two and three months. It makes sense that we haven't seen prices climb back to last year's peak. However, in the second half of the year, expect to see the annual rate of price growth improve compared to Q1, as sales increase relative to the below-average level of listings," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.

Tuesday, March 6, 2018

■Market Watch | March, 2018


GTA REALTORS® Release February Stats

March 6, 2018 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Tim Syrianos announced that Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 5,175 residential transactions through TREB's MLS® System in February 2018. This result was down 34.9 percent compared to the record 7,955 sales reported in February 2017.

The number of new listings entered into TREB's MLS® System totaled 10,520, a 7.3 per cent increase compared to the 9,801 new listings entered in February 2017. However, the level of new listings remained below the average for the month of February for the previous 10 years.

"When TREB released its Outlook for 2018, the forecast anticipated a slow start to the year compared to the historically high sales count reported in the winter and early spring of 2017. Prospective home buyers are still coming to terms with the psychological impact of the Fair Housing Plan, and some have also had to re-evaluate their plans due to the new OFSI-mandated mortgage stress test guidelines and generally higher borrowing costs," said Mr. Syrianos.

The MLS® Home Price Index Composite Benchmark was up by 3.2 per cent on a year-over-year basis for the TREB market area as a whole. This growth was driven by the apartment and townhouse market segments, with annual benchmark price increases of 18.8 per cent and 7.5 per cent respectively. Single-family detached and attached benchmark prices were down slightly compared to February 2017. The overall average selling price for February sales was down 12.4% year-over-year to $767,818. However, putting aside the price spike reported in the first quarter of 2017, it is important to note that February's average price remained 12 per cent higher than the average reported for February 2016, which represents an annualized increase well above the rate of inflation for the past two years.

"As we move further into the spring and summer months, growth in sales and selling prices is expected to pick up relative to last year. Expect stronger price growth to continue in the comparatively more affordable townhouse and condominium apartment segments. This being said, listings supply will likely remain below average in many neighbourhoods in the GTA, which, over the long-term, could further hamper affordability," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.

Friday, February 9, 2018

■Condo & Rental Market Report | Q4 2017

Seller's Market Conditions Continue in Q4 2017

January 22, 2018 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Tim Syrianos announced that Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 5,773 condominium apartment sales through TREB's MLS® System in the fourth quarter of 2017. This result was down by 15.4 per cent compared to the last three months of 2016.

Over the same period, new condominium apartment listings were up by 9.8 per cent to 8,186. While sales were down relative to listings, market conditions still remained tight, with a sales-to-new listings ratio of 70 per cent.

"Demand for condominium apartments remained strong relative to listings in the fourth quarter. Even with the uptick in listings, which was certainly welcome, there was enough competition between buyers to prompt double-digit annual rates of price growth. This points to the fact that we still do have a supply problem in the GTA that needs to be addressed to ensure the long term sustainability of the marketplace," said Mr. Syrianos.

The average selling price for condominium apartments was up by 17.9 per cent year-over- year in the fourth quarter to $515,816. While this annual rate of growth was down from earlier in 2017, the condominium apartment segment was still the leader in terms of price growth in the second half of the year.

"Seller's market conditions remained in place for the condominium apartment market segment in the fourth quarter. Based on price point, this housing type remains top of mind for many first-time buyers. In addition, as home prices have grown year-over-year some buyers who initially may have considered the purchase of a low-rise home have chosen to purchase a condo apartment as well," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.


Strong Average Rent Growth Continued in Q4 2017

January 22, 2018 – Toronto Real Estate Board President Tim Syrianos announced that average rents for one-bedroom and two-bedroom condominium apartment rents were up very strongly on a year-over-year basis in the fourth quarter of 2017, based on transactions reported by Greater Toronto REALTORS® through TREB’s MLS® System.

The average rent for one-bedroom condominium apartments in the TREB market area was up by 10.9 per cent on an annual basis to $1,970 in Q4 2017. The average two-bedroom condominium apartment rent was up by 8.8 per cent over the same period to $2,627.

“As the population in the GTA continues to grow, so too does the demand for rental accommodation. The problem is that rental supply has not kept up with the increase in demand in recent years. The result has been low vacancy rates and intense competition between renters for available units. This competition has underpinned very strong growth in average rents,” said Mr. Syrianos. The number of condominium apartments listed during the fourth quarter was down by 3.4 per cent compared to Q4 2016.

The number of units leased was down by 0.7 per cent. Because the vacancy rate was less than one per cent for condominium apartments in the fall of 2017, a dip in the number of apartments listed for rent translated through into a dip in the number of lease agreements signed.

“Looking forward, we continue to have concerns that rent control legislation announced in conjunction with the Ontario Fair Housing Plan will preclude additional rental supply coming on stream, both in the purpose-built and investor-held condominium apartment segments. Going further, it is possible that current owners of condominium apartments could choose to list their units for sale to take advantage of recent price gains rather than rent their units to tenants under the new rent control regime,” said Jason Mercer, TREB’s Director of Market Analysis.

Wednesday, February 7, 2018

■Market Watch | February, 2018

GTA REALTORS® Release January Stats

February 6, 2018
 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Tim Syrianos announced that Greater Toronto Area REALTORS® reported 4,019 residential transactions through TREB's MLS® System in January 2018. This result was down by 22 per cent compared to a record 5,155 sales reported in January 2017.

The number of new listings entered into TREB's MLS® System amounted to 8,585 – a 17.4 per cent increase compared to 7,314 new listings entered in January 2017. However, it is important to note that the level of new listings was the second lowest for the month of January in the past 10 years.

"TREB released its outlook for 2018 on January 30th. The outlook pointed to a slower start to 2018, especially compared to the record-setting pace experienced a year ago. As we move through the year, expect the pace of home sales to pick up, as the psychological impact of the Fair Housing Plan starts to wane and home buyers find their footing relative to the new OSFImandated stress test for mortgage approvals through federally regulated lenders," said Mr. Syrianos.

The MLS® Home Price Index Composite Benchmark was up by 5.2 per cent year-over-year. This annual rate of growth was driven by the condominium apartment market segment, with doubledigit annual growth versus the single-family segment, with prices essentially flat compared to last year. The overall average selling price was down by 4.1 per cent year-over-year to $736,783. This decline was weighted toward the detached segment of the market. In the City of Toronto, the average selling price was up for all home types except for detached houses.

"It is not surprising that home prices in some market segments were flat to down in January compared to last year. At this time last year, we were in the midst of a housing price spike driven by exceptionally low inventory in the marketplace. It is likely that market conditions will support a return to positive price growth for many home types in the second half of 2018. The condominium apartment segment will be the driver of this price growth," said Jason Mercer, TREB's Director of Market Analysis.