Market segments are expected to rebound at varying timelines in 2025. Policy changes, such as extended amortization periods and allowing buyers to finance properties up to $1.5 million with less than 20% down, combined with anticipated further declines in interest rates, will continue to improve buyer sentiment and stimulate market activity
Sales of low-rise, single-family homes, including detached and semi-detached properties, are expected to see the most activity and price growth in 2025. While some forecasts predict relatively flat home prices, we believe values in this segment will rise significantly, potentially pricing out buyers sooner than anticipated. Buyers will likely realize that their window of opportunity within the freehold and low-rise market is narrowing rapidly.
The resale condo market, which faced significant challenges in 2024 due to high investor ownership, is poised to benefit. Higher inventory levels will begin to be absorbed by first-time buyers who can no longer afford low-rise homes. As a result, condo sales are expected to outpace new listings throughout the year.
The pre-construction market will take more time to recover. Currently, the cost of acquiring pre-construction units far exceeds the resale market, and builders are unable to lower prices due to high construction costs. Developers will likely focus on selling off existing inventory before launching new projects. The best opportunities in 2025 may lie in the assignment market, where original buyers unable to close may sell units below current market values. However, as interest rates continue to decline, this opportunity may not last long.