Spring is traditionally the busiest time of year in Ontario real estate. Flowers bloom, yards defrost, and "For Sale" signs pop up like tulips across neighbourhoods. But 2025 isn’t shaping up to be a typical spring market—and if you're thinking of buying or selling, it’s more important than ever to understand what's really happening behind the scenes.

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Is There Still a Spring Surge in 2025?

Yes—and no.

We’re still seeing a seasonal increase in listings and buyer activity as the weather warms up. But this year's surge is more cautious and calculated, shaped by the current economic and political landscape.

Key factors shaping the market this April:

Interest Rates and Affordability Pressures

After multiple hikes in 2024, interest rates remain elevated. While there's talk of potential cuts later this year, they haven’t materialized yet—and buyers are feeling the pinch. Affordability remains a top concern, especially for first-time buyers navigating stricter lending criteria and higher monthly payments.

Election-Year Uncertainty

With both provincial and federal elections looming, consumer confidence is mixed. Some buyers and sellers are choosing to “wait and see” how policies around housing, taxes, and immigration might shift later this year—impacting supply and demand in unpredictable ways.

Inventory is Still Tight, But Loosening

While more homes are hitting the market compared to the winter lull, inventory levels are still lower than average. That’s keeping some upward pressure on prices in popular areas, especially where move-in-ready homes are in short supply. But in others, longer days on market are giving buyers a bit more breathing room.

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What Buyers Need to Know

• Pre-approval is essential. Lenders are scrutinizing more carefully, and rate holds could save you thousands if cuts happen later in the year.

• Focus on long-term value. Buying in a shifting market? Think beyond short-term fluctuations and consider your 5–10 year horizon.
  

Negotiation power is back—sometimes. Not every property is flying off the market with multiple offers. Depending on the area, you might have leverage.

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What Sellers Should Keep in Mind

• Presentation matters more than ever. With more listings to choose from, staging, curb appeal, and smart pricing are key.

• Be realistic. Bidding wars are still happening—but only for homes that are priced right and marketed well.
  

Act now if you’re ready. Listing in spring gives you access to the largest pool of motivated buyers, before summer slowdowns and potential policy shifts.

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Bottom Line

While we do have a spring market in 2025, it’s not business as usual. Buyers are cautious. Sellers need to be strategic. And the macro environment—from interest rates to political uncertainty—is playing a bigger role than ever in people’s decisions.

Whether you're considering listing your home or just starting your buying journey, the Jensen Real Estate Team is here to guide you through the noise with local expertise and a strategy tailored to this market—not last year’s.

Let’s talk. Spring might just be your moment—if you move smart.

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