Posted by The Heaps Estrin Team on Monday, September 15th, 2025 12:17pm.
Typically, back-to-school signals back-to-market. This September, activity is expected to pick up a little more slowly, reflecting the quieter-than-usual August as many people in the city truly stepped away. The fall market should really begin to take shape the week of September 15th, once routines settle and momentum returns. What we don’t expect: fireworks. What we do expect: a gradual, healthier pace as fewer new listings meet steady seasonal demand and existing inventory is absorbed. In other words, no dramatic shifts on the horizon.
What the Numbers Say
TRREB reported that sales were up modestly year-over-year, while new listings rose even more – meaning buyers continued to enjoy choice and negotiating room. Average prices edged downward in August, reflecting the depth of available inventory. Analysts note that another Bank of Canada cut, if delivered, could help affordability, but even without it, this is a market defined more by balance than volatility.
In Central Toronto, the picture is consistent: well-presented, well-priced homes are still drawing attention and selling. Properties that overshoot the comps, however, are sitting longer and finding their price through negotiation. Translation: in today’s market, strong product and pricing discipline win.
For those who may have seen the federal housing minister’s comment this week that Toronto’s condo market is in “free fall,” that’s not exactly the full story as dynamics differ widely by building and neighbourhood. If you’re weighing a condo move, we’re happy to provide tailored insight.
Financing & Rates
On the financing side, some lenders and brokers are offering promotional mortgage rates as the fiscal year-end approaches – in some cases around 3.99% for buyers who lock in quick closings. Think of it as a back-to-school special. These incentives could spark a short-term bump in activity among buyers who have been waiting for more favourable conditions. And all eyes will be on the Bank of Canada’s September 17th announcement, which could add further momentum if rates hold steady or decline.
What Does this Mean for You?
For sellers, if you’ve been waiting, mid-September onward presents a good time to list. Successful outcomes will come down to the basics: thoughtful preparation, uncompromising presentation, and pricing to today’s market – not last year’s wish. With fewer competing listings expected, those who launch strategically and well will stand out.
For buyers, choice remains solid, and negotiation room exists – especially on longstanding listings. However, the best homes still move quickly when priced right, so have your financing ready.
If you have questions, our team of Strategic Advisors is here to guide you – whether that’s prepping for a fall listing, navigating negotiations, or spotting value in today’s market. Don’t hesitate to reach out; we’re always here to help and we would love to hear from you.
Sales activity in Central Toronto was up slightly year-over-year, with 851 homes changing hands in August (a 5.6% increase). Detached and semi-detached homes saw more sales, though average prices dipped, most notably in the detached segment. Condos held relatively steady with modest declines in pricing. Overall, more listings and longer days on market kept conditions balanced, giving buyers choice while rewarding sellers who priced sharply.
West Toronto had a modest bump in sales (up 2.7% year-over-year), with 493 properties sold. Detached and semis saw healthy increases in activity – 15% and 20% more sales, respectively – though average prices eased, particularly for detached homes (down 7% to $1.37M). Condos softened slightly both in volume and price. Inventory is up 15%, keeping competition in check, but demand for well-positioned houses remains evident.
5 Taylor Drive
An Elbows-Up, Decidedly Canadian Build
This home was a true passion project – built by a local builder for his own family, he was fulfilling a boyhood promise to one day construct the finest house on the street. With nearly 5,000 square feet of refined living space, it’s also a distinctly Canadian build, featuring locally sourced materials throughout. A story of legacy, pride of place, and craftsmanship at its best.
Price: $3,198,000
Beds: 5+1
Baths: 7
Additional highlights: Custom interiors, ravine views, wine room, radiant-heated lower level, walk-out to landscaped gardens.
Virtual Tour
Heaps Estrin Pickleball Event
Leaside Fairgrounds | 849 Eglinton Ave East
Tuesday, September 23rd | 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Join us for our 1st Pickleball Mixer – whether you’re brand new to the game or just looking for a fun casual outing with friends, join us for an evening of swings, snacks and sips. Friendships are made in the Kitchen.
RSVP HERE
Storied Homes Walking Tour
Saturday, September 27th | 10:30am - 12:30pm
Join Architectural Historian and Heaps Estrin Real Estate Agent Alex Corey as he shares captivating stories about the neighbourhood of South Hill, from its homes to the people who lived in them and the events that shaped Toronto.
Layers of Light
Thursday, September 18th | 6:30pm - 8:30pm
The Lobby Introduces Artist Sandy Middleton
Sandy’s encaustic paper sculpture work is about layers, both in meaning and material form. Managing the chaos of the external by carefully dissecting time into small manageable moments. Each layer presents options, possibilities and choices. The image, while important, is deconstructed to allow for a subliminal connection with the viewer. Sandy works with encaustic medium, photography and Japanese papers.
Join us for The Opening Night of artist Sandy Middleton's Show: Layers of Light
BEYOND
Fall 2025 | Coming Soon
The fall issue of BEYOND is on the way. Keep an eye on your mailbox — you won’t want to miss what’s inside.
VIEW DIGITAL VERSION HERE
Studio 25
A Night to Remember
This week, The Heaps Estrin Team celebrated 25 years of Toronto success stories in true Studio 25 style. Stay tuned for next month’s update where we’ll share the highlights.
Get More from Toronto’s Market. We Will Help.
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