The market isn’t slowing; rather, it’s taking the time to adjust and find stability in response to recent shifts, signaling a period of measured adaptation rather than decline.
Here are some updates for buyers, sellers, renters and landlords looking to stay informed.
Eglinton Crosstown LRT – Midtown Connections Driving Value
Line 5 opened in February 2025, adding 19 km of rapid transit across midtown at a cost of $12.8 billion. Transit access continues to drive long-term value and rental demand.
Areas to watch: Mount Dennis, Caledonia, Oakwood Village, Leaside, Golden Mile.
Condos Under $400K – Entry Opportunities Are Back
Select GTA condos are now selling below $400,000. With the average condo price around $682,000 (Jan 2026 TRREB) and inventory elevated, buyers have regained negotiation power.
A pricing reset is creating entry opportunities not seen in years.
Builder Incentives – Buyer Leverage:
Mattamy Homes is offering price reductions ($10K–$100K+), design credits, free assignment fees, and select maintenance/upgrades across Ontario communities. Incentives vary by project and are limited-time.
Vacant Home Tax – Deadline Approaching
Mandatory declaration deadline: April 30, 2026. The tax remains 1% of assessed value if vacant over six months; a $1M home could face a $10,000 charge.
Interest Rates – March 2026 Update
The Bank of Canada overnight rate currently sits at 2.25%, with the next announcement scheduled for March 18, 2026. Even a 0.25% change can affect variable-rate mortgage payments and borrowing power, though the exact impact depends on the mortgage amount, amortisation, and lender terms.
Luxury MLTT – Timing Matters
MLTT increases apply to properties above $3,000,000, with additional tiers over $20,000,000. Closing date determines the tax, so timing is key for luxury buyers.
Let’s Make Sense of the Market
Transit growth, condo repricing, builder incentives, and tax changes are reshaping 2026. In this market, preparation, not reaction, creates advantage. See how the 2026 market has started, based on the numbers on our February 2026 Market Insider Report.
