Summer Momentum Is Building in Real Estate
June Highlights
Happy June from Team Ballas.
The warmer weather has finally arrived, and with it has come a noticeable increase in real estate activity across the region. While the bugs have certainly made their annual appearance, they have not stopped buyers from getting back into the market. Inventory remains high, creating opportunities for buyers who are finding themselves in a strong negotiating position.
Over the past several weeks, we've actually seen a shift in our business. While listings remain active and we continue bringing properties to market, we have been spending more time helping buyers take advantage of the opportunities available right now. Well-priced homes are attracting attention, investment properties that have been sitting on the market are beginning to move, and buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines are starting to take action.
At the same time, many homeowners are looking for clarity. We continue to receive requests for complimentary market evaluations, often several each day, as sellers try to understand where they stand in today's market. Even if a move is not immediate, many families are planning ahead and gathering information for future decisions.
This month's Team Ballas video explores three opportunities for buyers and three opportunities for sellers in today's market. If you're wondering where the market may be headed next, it's worth a watch.
Interest Rate Talk
The Bank of Canada held its policy rate steady throughout May, with the next announcement scheduled for June 10, 2026.
Most forecasts currently suggest rates will remain unchanged, continuing the stable environment we've experienced over the past several months. While there is always uncertainty surrounding future announcements, mortgage options remain competitive, with both fixed and variable products continuing to offer attractive solutions for many buyers.
One trend worth watching is the large number of mortgage renewals occurring across Canada this year. More than one million mortgages are expected to come up for renewal throughout 2026, many of which were originally secured during the historically low-rate environment of the pandemic years.
For homeowners approaching renewal, now is an excellent time to review options and begin planning ahead.
New Construction Update
One of the most exciting developments this month has been completing one of our first new construction transactions since the federal HST relief announcement earlier this spring.
While the legislation has not yet officially passed, builders, lawyers, and industry professionals have been working together to help buyers take advantage of potential savings while navigating the current uncertainty. Through careful planning and the assistance of experienced legal professionals, solutions are emerging that may allow qualifying buyers to benefit sooner rather than later.
As always, every situation is unique, but the increased attention surrounding new construction has already created new opportunities for buyers considering a newly built home. If you would like to learn more about current new construction incentives or potential HST relief opportunities, we would be happy to discuss your options.
Father's Day & Local Events
June also brings Father's Day on June 21st.
Whether you're celebrating a father, grandfather, mentor, or another important role model in your life, we hope you have the opportunity to spend quality time together. These moments matter, and they are often the ones we remember most.
This year, Jason has been invited to participate in the Yorkville Exotic Car Show in Toronto alongside hundreds of other exotic vehicles from across Ontario. Team Ballas will be joining the Lotus display for the event, which is free for the public to attend and takes place throughout the streets of Yorkville on Father's Day weekend.
If you're planning to be in the area, feel free to stop by and say hello.
Market Trends & Statistics
Click on the image above to see it in more detail.
The trends we discussed last month continued throughout May, although in several areas the changes became even more pronounced.
Active listing inventory increased across most regions by approximately 7% to 10%, providing buyers with additional choice and helping create more balanced market conditions. Prince Edward County experienced one of the larger increases, with active inventory rising approximately 18%, while Stirling saw inventory grow by roughly 24%.
One of the most encouraging trends continues to be the improvement in months of inventory. As a reminder, a balanced market typically falls within the range of three to four months of inventory. Several of our local markets are now approaching that range, creating healthier conditions for both buyers and sellers.
Brighton's numbers also stabilized after a significant increase in inventory earlier this spring driven largely by new construction activity. Twenty homes sold in Brighton during May, helping the market move back toward more balanced conditions.
Sales activity remained strong across the region. Belleville and Quinte West each recorded more than 80 sales during the month, supported in part by another active military posting season as well as buyers seeking affordability compared to larger urban centres.
Average sale prices remained relatively stable throughout most markets. Prince Edward County was the notable exception, with average sale prices increasing significantly month over month, likely influenced by several higher-value waterfront transactions.
Looking ahead, June is traditionally one of the busiest months of the year for real estate. Buyers are often motivated to secure a home and complete their move before the summer season is over and before the September school year begins.
If current trends continue, we expect to see steady sales activity, healthy inventory levels, and continued opportunities for both buyers and sellers throughout the coming weeks.
As always, thank you for being part of the Team Ballas family.
Enjoy everything our region has to offer this summer, from waterfronts and beaches to local restaurants, festivals, and community events. If you're looking for recommendations on where to eat, explore, or spend a weekend afternoon, we'd be happy to share some of our favourites.
See you in July.
