What’s Happening in Real Estate?

Key Insights for First-Time Buyers, Sellers,

and Investors

It’s been a week and a month! A lot has unfolded, shaping the real estate market landscape in interesting ways. The federal election wrapped up with the Liberals staging an incredible comeback. Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs made it to the second round of the playoffs, Trump once again shifted tariff rules, and real estate sales saw a rebound in the latter half of the month.

If one thing is clear, it’s that life and the real estate market is anything but predictable.

Whether you're a seller, investor, or first-time homebuyer, here’s what you need to know about navigating the current market and what opportunities lie ahead.

A Month of Market Movements

Despite a slower start, sales rebounded significantly toward the end of the month, signaling renewed buyer interest and activity. The uncertainties like election outcomes and economic adjustments and even the weather have had short term impacts on the market.

This uptick in activity is good news for both buyers and sellers. For buyers and investors it means opportunities are still available to secure a home or investment. Sellers should note that demand hasn’t disappeared and prices still haven’t dropped significantly making it an opportune time to reconsider any paused listings.

The Impact of Changing Tariff Rules

Trump’s decision to modify tariffs yet again introduces both challenges and opportunities. While tariff changes may influence costs for construction materials like lumber or steel, they also emphasize the importance of strategic investments. For anyone with an interest in real estate, being aware of such changes can be a factor but shouldn’t be the determining factor when it comes to your decision around buying or selling. Trying to time the market because of interest rates or other economic conditions carries more risk of missing opportunities than thinking you’ve found the bottom or top of the market.

What this Means for First-Time Homebuyers

For those looking to enter the market for the first time, now is a moment to act strategically. The rebound in sales suggests competition is picking up again, but there are still neighborhoods and property types offering value for money.

Start by evaluating your financing options. Mortgage rates are no doubt a critical factor, so consult with professionals to lock in the best deal for you and your family. This may not be for you, but consider looking at less conventional options like fixer-uppers or smaller units, which may still be in less demand despite an overall market uptick.

Key Considerations for Sellers

If you’ve been holding off on selling, the time to act might be now. An increase in sales activity means more buyers are actively searching, and with demand growing, now could be the time to position your property for maximum exposure. Ensure your home is priced competitively and marketed effectively to attract potential buyers.

Work closely with a Realtor® to keep a pulse on market trends in your specific neighbourhood. Timing knows no master, but aligning your listing with peak interest periods could make all the difference. The Spring market has been slow to arrive this year due to a number of factors including some pretty miserable weather conditions.

Opportunities for Investors

The unpredictability of economic shifts shouldn’t deter you as an investor. If anything, it creates opportunities for those who rightfully play the long game. Tariff changes, while a potential short-term hurdle, don’t negate the long-term growth and stability real estate has exhibited in the past and continues to offer.

Leverage the current rebound in sales to identify properties in growing markets, especially in areas seeing increased demand due to infrastructure developments or urban expansion. Consider working with an expert advisor to analyze data and make informed, timely decisions.

Just One More Thing

The real estate market continues to demonstrate its resilience, even amidst unpredictable factors like elections, policy changes, and shifting consumer behaviours. Whether you’re just stepping into the world of homeownership, looking to sell smartly, or exploring where to invest next, staying informed is your most valuable tool.

Curious about the best opportunities available? Connect with us on a 20 min discovery meeting.

Enjoy the weekend,

Paul

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LISTINGS OF THE WEEK

Discover a fresh take on modern living at Northside in Guelph, a thoughtfully designed stacked condo townhome community by award-winning builder Granite Homes. Choose from spacious single-storey or two-storey units ranging from 869 to 1,120 sq. ft., each offering 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and upscale finishes including 9 ft ceilings, luxury vinyl plank flooring, quartz countertops, and stainless steel kitchen appliances.

Enjoy comfort and convenience with features like in-suite laundry, private outdoor balconies, and flexible parking options for 1 or 2 vehicles. Ideally located in North Guelph beside SmartCentres plaza, residents enjoy quick access to grocery stores, shopping, dining, Riverside Park, the Guelph trail network, and public transit—including the 99 express route to downtown and the University of Guelph. Northside blends suburban tranquility with urban convenience, complete with a large community park and outdoor amenity space.

Check out the Grand Opening of these two new Northside model homes this Saturday May 3rd from 1–3 PM at 824 Woolwich Street, Guelph!

Listings courtesy of Keller Williams Home Group Realty Brokerage