WELCOME TO THE ABTEAM MARCH BLOG!

The opening months of 2025 have seen Old Man Winter play a dramatic role in the buying and selling patterns of real estate consumers, making it difficult to truly ascertain what the pulse and trajectory of the market is in broad, definable terms. What we can tell you is this: the entry level market is still responsible for stimulating sales, and it’s where we are seeing the greatest activity. Multiple offers are occurring regularly in this category, where the selection of quality inventory listed between $600,000 and $800,000 is still hotly in demand. The key word here being: quality.

In the mid and upper price ranges however, the available inventory is definitely experiencing significant lag time. Showings are sparse, multiple offer situations are rare. The key word for this category is: patience. Position, condition, location and strategy are all playing starring roles in determining a successful, timely sale. It’s truly a return to the days of being a “price war” and a “beauty pageant”. The presentation, price and proper launch of a home to market haven’t been this imperative since the pre-pandemic market.

We understand these subtle nuances because of the coveted position RE/MAX Jazz holds as the trusted source on residential trends in the Durham Region. We see it firsthand, before the competition, and can therefore respond in the most nimble fashion. These are the marketplace realities we are navigating presently, and what we hope to always bring you are these informed insights, relevant data and knowledgeable perspective that only entrenched real estate veterans can give.

Our brokerage, RE/MAX Jazz provides in-depth market analytics every week to all of its agents, and even includes the volume of showing activity on our collective listings – a key metric that goes largely unexamined by most brokerages. That information is vital to understanding the market. It informs all of the successful strategies they employ for our clients and it educates our buyers and sellers accurately on the real time condition of our local market. This is just one of the many reasons why our brokerage RE/MAX Jazz continues to be the leader in the local marketplace, 16 years and counting.

WHY IS NOW A GOOD TIME TO BUY OR SELL A HOME?

Currently, selling a home can be advantageous due to potentially lower competition and a more predictable market, while buying could offer opportunities for better deals and a chance to lock in rates before the spring rush. 

For Sellers:

• Fewer Buyers, More Opportunity:

  The real estate market typically sees a decrease in activity during the colder months, meaning fewer buyers are actively searching for homes. This can lead to less competition for sellers and potentially faster sales.

• Potential for a Good Price:

  While home prices are high, the lower buyer activity can also mean that sellers can still get a good price for their property, especially if it's well-presented and marketed.

• Beat the Spring Rush:

  Sellers who move now can get ahead of the busy spring market, where competition for both buyers and sellers intensifies. 

For Buyers:

• More Time to Negotiate:

  With fewer buyers in the market, buyers have more time to consider their options and negotiate a better deal. 

• Potential for Better Deals:

  The reduced competition could lead to lower prices or more favorable terms for buyers. 

• Lock in Rates:

  Buyers can potentially lock in mortgage rates now before the spring market, when rates might be higher. 

Important Considerations:

• Market Dynamics:

  It's crucial to understand the current real estate market dynamics, including mortgage rates and home prices, before making any decisions.

• Personal Circumstances:

  Your individual circumstances, such as your financial situation and timeline for moving, should also be considered. 

• Contact us today to learn more about buying or selling a home.

DATES TO REMEMBER:

• March 14 - Commonwealth Day
• March 15 - International Day to Combat Islamophobia
• March 17 - St. Patrick's Day
• March 20 - First Day of Spring
• March 21 - International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
• March 31 -  International Transgender Day of Visibility and National Indigenous Languages Day

As always, we are sincerely grateful for the opportunity to serve your real estate needs, and those of your family and friends, neighbours and co-workers.  It is a constant thrill to receive personal recommendations from our clients, and we have been so fortunate to be able to build our business on our name and reputation – and it’s all thanks to you!