February 2026 Thoughts From Judy Stacee-Cleaver, Broker of Record, FRI,ABR

Thoughts From Judy Stacee-Cleaver

Broker of Record, FRI, ABR

Lose Those News Blues!

I’ve personally taken a step back from daily news. Bad news sells, keeps us engaged, watching and scrolling, going down rabbit holes in search of information.

As a Realtor, taking a more broader and historical data driven look at the last 10 years gives a different perspective on what the current slower and lower priced housing market means. Let’s look at the Average Price for All Home Types (Detached, Condo, Townhouses, Semi’s) in Durham Region for the months of January. As per TRREB, Toronto Regional Real Estate Board, the Avg. Price in 2016 was $446,117.

It shot up to $608,417 in 2017, slightly lower in 2018, back up to $876,133 in 2021. In January 2022 it was $1,175,010, as numerous buyers forced prices up. Low interest rates, low inventory and a pent up need to move, had buyers offering crazy amounts, choosing to forgo important Inspection and Financing clauses in order to not miss out. This later caused problems for some buyers.

Which brings us to January 2026’s Avg. Price of $896,611, lower than January 2022, but substantially higher than in 2016. It’s a healthy shift to a more balanced and sustainable housing market, leading to less bidding wars, more negotiating room and less rushed decisions.

Buyers can make confident decisions and lower interest rates allow more 1st time buyers to become homeowners. The current condo market is a great first step on the homeownership ladder.

For Sellers, realistic pricing and expectations are the key, pricing correctly from the start, presenting the home well, and being prepared for a slightly longer timeline is important. Sellers who understand this tend to experience smoother transactions and stronger results than those expecting last year’s conditions to return.

So step back, give yourself a break and put things into perspective, as being balanced is always a healthier way to live.

Happy Year of the Horse, Jo