07.10.25 | For Buyers

Housing Market Insight June 2025

June 2025– GTA Housing Market News

Here is our quick market update!

🏡 June 2025 GTA Housing Market Update

Affordability Improves, But Buyer Hesitancy Lingers

The Greater Toronto Area housing market saw continued signs of affordability in June 2025, as both average selling prices and borrowing costs remained below year-ago levels. Despite this positive trend, many potential buyers are still waiting on the sidelines amid ongoing economic uncertainty.

“The market is steadily recovering,” said TRREB President Elechia Barry-Sproule.
“More listings have given buyers increased negotiating power, and lower interest rates have made homeownership more accessible. Many households in 2025 are now finding the path to owning a home more achievable than it was just a year ago.”


📊 Key Market Stats – June 2025

  • 6,243 homes sold across the GTA
    🔻 Down 2.4% year-over-year

  • 19,839 new listings
    🔺 Up 7.7% year-over-year

  • Average selling price: $1,101,691
    🔻 Down 5.4% year-over-year

  • MLS® HPI Composite Benchmark:
    🔻 Down 5.5% year-over-year

On a seasonally adjusted basis, sales increased month-over-month, while new listings declined, continuing the market tightening seen throughout spring.


💬 Expert Insights

“A more stable economic outlook—particularly a firm U.S.-Canada trade deal—could greatly improve consumer confidence,” said Jason Mercer, TRREB Chief Information Officer.
“If paired with two additional interest rate cuts, monthly mortgage payments could become even more manageable, helping to sustain the momentum we’ve seen and supporting prices moving forward.”


🏠 Looking to Buy or Sell?

With the market shifting and opportunities growing, now is the time to connect with a local REALTOR® who understands the current landscape and your specific goals.

All in all, it’s a market that favors buyers, but things can still move fast if the property hits the right price point. If you’re curious about what all this means for your home or area specifically, feel free to get in touch — we’re always happy to help.

Milton Real Estate Market

The average price in Milton $1,066,102

Burlington Real Estate Market

The average price in Burlington $1,130,101

Oakville Real Estate Market

The average price in Oakville $1,488,777


The average price in GTA $1,101,691

Have questions about the market? Contact us today to learn more!

Previous Reports on GTA Housing Market News

January February  March  April May      

07.10.25 | For Buyers

Why Hiring a Real Estate Agent in 2025 Is Still a Smart Move

🏡 Why Hiring a Real Estate Agent in 2025 Is Still a Smart Move

In today’s digital world, it can be tempting to think you can buy or sell a home on your own. After all, you’ve got online listings, mortgage calculators, and neighborhood data at your fingertips. But behind every smooth real estate transaction is a great deal of work—and often, a great agent.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned seller, or somewhere in between, having an experienced real estate professional by your side can save you money, time, and stress.

Here are 10 compelling reasons why working with a real estate agent is still the smartest move in 2025:


1️⃣ Pricing Expertise That Pays Off

Real estate agents are market experts. They perform detailed Comparative Market Analyses (CMAs) to help sellers price competitively—and help buyers avoid overpaying. Their insight into current trends, local demand, and historical pricing ensures you’re working with numbers that make sense.


2️⃣ Exclusive Access to the MLS

The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is the heartbeat of real estate data. While consumer sites show listings, they often miss out on real-time updates or full details. Agents use the MLS to help you access the most accurate, up-to-date properties—often before they hit public platforms.


3️⃣ Powerful Negotiation Skills

Real estate agents are trained negotiators. They know when to push, when to wait, and how to approach offers and counteroffers to maximize value for you. Whether it’s price, repairs, or contingencies—your agent acts as a strategic, emotionally neutral advocate.


4️⃣ A Paperwork Pro

From contracts to disclosures to inspection reports, real estate involves a mountain of paperwork. Your agent will handle it with precision, ensuring every form is filled out correctly, signed where needed, and submitted on time—so you avoid costly delays or legal issues.


5️⃣ In-Depth Market Knowledge

Agents stay in tune with local and national trends, giving you insight into the best times to buy or sell. They can also suggest alternatives—like investing in up-and-coming areas or selling your current home before buying your next one. It’s expertise you simply can’t get from a search engine.


6️⃣ A Trusted Professional Network

Need a lender? A home inspector? A moving company? Your agent has you covered. Tap into their vetted network of service providers—saving you hours of research and helping you avoid unreliable options during a time-sensitive process.


7️⃣ They Save You Time

Real estate agents do the heavy lifting. From scheduling showings to coordinating inspections and marketing your listing, they handle it all. Many even drive you to viewings, freeing you up to focus on decisions—not logistics.


8️⃣ Emotional Support (Yes, Really)

Buying or selling a home is emotional—there’s no way around it. An experienced agent helps keep you grounded, offering objective advice during high-stress moments. They celebrate your wins and help you bounce back from disappointments, acting as both advocate and coach.


9️⃣ Contract Confidence

Real estate contracts are legally binding. Even a small oversight can lead to big problems. Your agent ensures everything is accurate, complete, and legally compliant—giving you peace of mind and a solid foundation for your transaction.


🔟 Ongoing Support After the Sale

A great real estate agent isn’t just there for the closing—they’re in it for the long haul. Whether you need a handyman, another property, or advice on the market down the road, your agent is part of your trusted post-sale support team.


🏠 So… Should You Hire an Agent?

Yes—especially if you want the process to be smooth, efficient, and financially smart. While DIY real estate is technically possible, the risks often outweigh the savings. Hiring a qualified real estate agent means getting a trusted partner who looks out for your best interests from start to finish—and beyond.


Thinking of buying or selling? Reach out to a local agent today. You’ll be glad you did.

 

Source: RE/MAX

07.10.25 | For Buyers

Seared Salmon with Buttery Couscous and Mango Salsa

A light and flavorful dish featuring perfectly seared salmon served over buttery couscous, topped with a fresh and zesty mango salsa—perfect for a quick summer dinner!

🧄 Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or off, your choice)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp butter

  • Juice of ½ lemon

For the Buttery Couscous:

  • 1 cup couscous

  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

  • 1 tbsp butter

  • Salt, to taste

  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Mango Salsa:

  • 1 ripe mango, diced

  • ½ red bell pepper, diced

  • ¼ red onion, finely chopped

  • 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for heat)

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

  • Salt, to taste


🍽️ Instructions

1. Make the Mango Salsa:

In a bowl, combine mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Toss well and chill in the fridge while you prep the rest.

2. Prepare the Couscous:

  • In a small pot, bring broth to a boil.

  • Stir in couscous, butter, and a pinch of salt.

  • Cover and remove from heat. Let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

3. Cook the Salmon:

  • Season salmon with salt and pepper.

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Sear salmon (skin-side down if applicable) for 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy.

  • Flip and cook another 2–4 minutes (depending on thickness), adding butter and lemon juice during the last minute to baste.

4. Assemble:

Spoon couscous onto plates, top with seared salmon, and finish with a generous scoop of mango salsa.


Tips:

  • You can substitute mango with pineapple or peach for variety.

  • Add avocado to the salsa for creaminess.

  • For extra texture, toss toasted almonds or pine nuts into the couscous.

06.12.25 | For Buyers

Housing Market Insight May 2025

May 2025– GTA Housing Market News

Here is our quick market update!

📊 GTA Housing Market Update – May 2025

Affordability Improves, Buyer Confidence Lags

The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) real estate market saw improved affordability in May 2025 compared to the same period last year. With sales down and listings up, many homebuyers took advantage of increased choice and stronger negotiating power.

“Homebuyers across the GTA are clearly benefiting from more inventory and softer pricing,” said TRREB President Elechia Barry-Sproule. “But every neighbourhood is different. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a REALTOR® who knows the local market and can help navigate specific housing needs with expertise and the right tools.”


📉 Key Stats – May 2025

  • 6,244 homes sold through TRREB’s MLS® System
    🔻 Down 13.3% from May 2024

  • 21,819 new listings
    🔺 Up 14% year-over-year

  • Average selling price: $1,120,879
    🔻 Down 4% year-over-year

  • MLS® HPI Composite Benchmark:
    🔻 Down 4.5% year-over-year

On a seasonally adjusted basis, sales were up month-over-month for the second straight month, while listings also rose, though at a slower pace—indicating a slight tightening in market conditions.


💬 Expert Insight

“Ownership costs are more manageable this year thanks to lower prices and borrowing rates,” said TRREB Chief Information Officer Jason Mercer.
“But despite the improved affordability, buyer hesitation remains. Economic uncertainty—particularly surrounding Canada-U.S. trade—continues to weigh on consumer confidence. Stabilizing that relationship and further interest rate cuts could help reenergize the market.”


🏗️ Looking Ahead: Housing Policy & Market Outlook

TRREB CEO John DiMichele emphasized the need for tangible policy action following the federal government’s recent housing commitments:

“To restore affordability, we must cut excessive housing taxes and fees, adopt innovative construction methods, and streamline approval processes to boost supply. These steps would not only help homebuyers but also stimulate economic growth. With inflation under control, the time is right for further rate cuts—especially for first-time buyers and those facing mortgage renewals.”


👀 Thinking of buying or selling this year?
Connect with a local REALTOR® to get expert advice tailored to your area and property type.

All in all, it’s a market that favors buyers, but things can still move fast if the property hits the right price point. If you’re curious about what all this means for your home or area specifically, feel free to get in touch — we’re always happy to help.

Milton Real Estate Market

The average price in Milton $1,058,365

Burlington Real Estate Market

The average price in Burlington $1,120,072

Oakville Real Estate Market

The average price in Oakville $1,058,365


The average price in GTA $1,120,879

Have questions about the market? Contact us today to learn more!

Previous Reports on GTA Housing Market News

December January February  March          

06.12.25 | For Buyers

Budget-Friendly Renovation Tips to Refresh Your Home Without Breaking the Bank

Dreaming of a home makeover but working with a limited budget? You’re not alone—and the good news is, you don’t need a massive bankroll to transform your space. With the right approach, home renovations can boost your property value and refresh your surroundings without draining your savings.

Whether you’re aiming for better functionality, updated aesthetics, or simply a fresh feel, here are essential do’s and don’ts to help you renovate smart, stylish, and within budget.


🛠️ DIY or Call the Pros?

✅ DO: Know your limits before diving into a DIY project
While DIY renovations can save money, they’re not one-size-fits-all. Be honest about your time, tools, skills, and physical abilities. Tackle projects that are within your comfort zone, and don’t hesitate to outsource the rest.

🚫 DON’T: Take risks with health or safety
Jobs that involve mold, asbestos, lead, or require plumbing or electrical work are best left to licensed professionals. A poorly executed DIY could cost more in the long run to fix than hiring an expert in the first place.

💡 Quick Tip: Budget extra for DIY surprises—unexpected costs are almost inevitable, and padding your estimate helps prevent headaches.


♻️ Maximize What You Already Own

✅ DO: Reimagine your existing layout and décor
Sometimes, a room doesn’t need new stuff—it just needs a fresh perspective. Try rearranging furniture or swapping items between rooms to create a new flow and feel.

🚫 DON’T: Underestimate the power of small changes
Revamping a room might be as easy as updating lighting, changing pillow covers, or adding a pop of color through accessories. Even reframing art or using oversized matting can transform the look of your walls.

💡 Quick Tip: Hanging frames or wall grids are inexpensive ways to create gallery-style effects with existing photos, posters, or maps.


🔄 Repurpose Before You Replace

✅ DO: Give old pieces a second life
Before tossing out cabinets or furniture, think about how you can update them. Repainting cabinets, refinishing wood furniture, or replacing outdated hardware can make a huge impact at a fraction of the cost.

🚫 DON’T: Rush to replace items that just need a facelift
Many elements in your home—like light fixtures, drawer pulls, or doors—can be modernized rather than replaced entirely.

💡 Quick Tip: Swapping out knobs, faucets, or light switch covers is an easy upgrade with a big payoff in appearance.


🏗️ Know When Permits Are a Must

🚫 DON’T: Skip the legal steps for major renovations
Planning to knock down a wall, add a bathroom, or convert space into a bedroom? Make sure to check your local building codes and apply for the necessary permits.

✅ DO: Plan ahead to avoid costly delays
Permit approvals can take time. Start early to avoid stalling your renovation timeline.

💡 Quick Tip: Your city’s website usually outlines permitting requirements—review them before you commit to a project.


🎨 Get Creative and Have Fun

✅ DO: Infuse personality into your home
Renovations don’t have to be serious and sterile. Add pops of color that lift your mood, try peel-and-stick wallpaper for bold (but temporary) statements, or mix materials like wood, stone, and fabric for added texture.

🚫 DON’T: Neglect your outdoor space
Simple outdoor upgrades—like planting seasonal flowers or adding solar lighting—can enhance curb appeal. For low-maintenance beauty, look into xeriscaping or native plants that thrive in your local climate.

💡 Quick Tip: Even your front door can get a facelift—paint it a bold color for an instant style boost.


💬 Final Thoughts

Transforming your home doesn’t require a massive investment. With a little creativity, strategic planning, and a willingness to repurpose, you can breathe new life into your space—and maybe even boost your property value while you’re at it. Remember: Smart renovations aren’t just about how much you spend—they’re about how thoughtfully you invest your time and resources.

 

 

Source: RE/MAX

06.12.25 | For Buyers

Spicy Tuna Wraps with Homemade Chipotle Greek Yogurt Ranch

Easy, flavorful tuna wraps drizzled with light chipotle Greek yogurt ranch dressing. They’re the perfect summertime lunch and packed with delicious farmer’s market veggies.

Ingredients

  • 2 (10 inch) whole wheat or gluten free tortillas
  • ½ cup chopped romaine hearts
  • 1 roma tomato, sliced
  • 1/4 cup roasted fresh corn (or can used canned)
  • ½ avocado, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • 1 can Genova Seafood Albacore Tuna, drained

For the chipotle ranch dressing:

  • ¼ cup nonfat plain greek yogurt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (or can sub apple cider vinegar)
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried dill
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼-½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder (depending how spicy you like it)
  • 1 tablespoon water to thin dressing

Instructions

Step 1

Lay out two tortillas on a large cutting board. Divide the lettuce, tomato, corn, avocado slices, green onion and tuna between each tortilla.

Step 2

Drizzle each wrap with 1 tablespoon of the dressing, reserving the rest for dipping.

Step 3

Roll up each tortilla, tucking in the ends as you go.

Step 4

Enjoy immediately with the extra chipotle ranch, or wrap in plastic wrap and keep in fridge for up to 3 days (for optimal freshness).
Recipe by: Monique Volz // Ambitious Kitchen

05.12.25 | For Buyers

Housing Market Insight April 2025

April 2025– GTA Housing Market News

Here is our quick market update! The GTA real estate market moved pretty much in line with seasonal trends in April, with a slight bump in sales over March. That said, things are still noticeably quieter compared to last year. Sales were down 23% year-over-year, with 5,601 homes sold across the region.

Looking at the year so far, sales from January through April total 18,551 — that’s also 23% lower than the same time in 2024. And it’s worth remembering that last year was already slower than usual when compared to the 20-year average. So far, 2025 is shaping up to be even more of a slow start. Buyers are clearly still sitting on the sidelines, waiting not just for lower interest rates, but also for more clarity around the overall economy.

On the flip side, listings are way up. Active listings jumped 54% compared to last year, and new listings in April alone were up 8.1%. This means buyers have a lot more choice, and that’s giving them the upper hand in negotiations.

With more inventory on the market, prices have edged down. The average selling price in April was $1,107,463 — down 4.1% year-over-year — and the broader price index also showed a 5.4% decline. Month over month, prices dipped slightly as well. While buyers are managing to get better deals on some properties, homes that are priced right and marketed well are still selling, sometimes quickly.

All in all, it’s a market that favors buyers, but things can still move fast if the property hits the right price point. If you’re curious about what all this means for your home or area specifically, feel free to get in touch — we’re always happy to help.

Milton Real Estate Market

The average price in Milton $1,049,129 

Burlington Real Estate Market

The average price in Burlington $1,114,810

Oakville Real Estate Market

The average price in Oakville $1, 513, 732


The average price in GTA 9 $1,107,463 

Have questions about the market? Contact us today to learn more!

Previous Reports on GTA Housing Market News

December January February March

05.12.25 | For Buyers

Understanding the Real Estate Market When Selling Your Home

After sitting on the sidelines waiting out the market, you have decided on selling your home. You are not alone. This past fall, a NerdWallet study found that a fifth of homeowners plan to sell their homes in the next three years, and 41 percent intend to list their homes in the next five years.

If they plan to follow through on these plans, this could mean an injection of supply in a tight Canadian real estate market, which could help improve the housing affordability situation.

For now, according to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), home prices are up, demand is robust, and mortgage rates look more likely to have peaked at around the five percent mark. At the same time, not all housing markets are created equal.

Toronto Housing Market

In the Toronto real estate market, things are gradually inching toward a buyer’s market. In February, association data revealed that home sales plunged more than 27 percent from the previous year. The average selling price also tumbled 2.2 percent to below $1.09 million. The good news for prospective home-buyers? New listings surged 5.4 percent year-over-year, with more than 12,000 units hitting the Toronto real estate market.

With borrowing costs beginning to improve amid the Bank of Canada’s aggressive rate-cutting cycle, affordability should improve. That is if economic worries abate, says Jason Mercer, the chief market analyst at the Toronto Region Real Estate Board.

“On top of lingering affordability concerns, home-buyers have arguably become less confident in the economy,” Mercer said in a recent report. “Uncertainty about our trade relationship with the United States has likely prompted some households to take a wait-and-see attitude towards buying a home. If trade uncertainty is alleviated and borrowing costs continue to trend lower, we could see much stronger home sales activity in the second half of this year.”

 

Understanding the Real Estate Market When Selling Your Home

Here are nine things to consider when selling your home in today’s real estate market:

Work with Your Real Estate Agent

Some homeowners will make the mistake of going it alone. This is a misstep. Whether buying or selling, having this expert on your side takes the guesswork out of the process. This industry professional understands the current market, knows the neighbourhood well, and comprehends the many facets of the sector’s rules and regulations. Remember, realtors have your best interests at heart, so it is wise to work with one.

Strategic Pricing

Should you strategically price your home or list it at whatever you want? Depending on where you are located, it could be a buyer’s or seller’s market. As a result, it would be prudent to strategically and correctly list your home’s genuine worth. Ultimately, it is about discovering the ideal listing price that strikes a delicate balance of fair market value and attracting buyers.

Here are a few measures you can employ to garner the right price:

  • Request a home evaluation to determine your property value compared to the rest of the area’s market conditions.
  • Perform a home inspection to ensure everything is ready to showcase.
  • Collaborate with your real estate agent on pricing.

Timing Your Listing

Believe it or not, even in today’s housing market, it is crucial to list your home at the right time. While it is not always possible, industry experts say it should be prioritized. Why? You want to sell when prospective home-buyers want to acquire a property.

Here are a few things you need to know:

  • Winter is usually the slowest time of the year, particularly around the holidays.
  • People are typically ready to purchase a home when it is warmer outside.
  • Selecting the best day of the week can offer a competitive edge.
  • Your real estate agent’s online and offline marketing strategy will also consider the timing of your listing.

It is also worth recommending that you be flexible with your showing times. If interested individuals are appearing after work rather than in the middle of the day, then it is an indication that you might need to be more accommodating to bolster the odds of a sale.

Check Emotion at the Door

Do you think your home is worth much more than what is being listed? Do you think it will be hard to part ways with the keys to your house that you saw your children grow up in? Would you reject a request from the home-buyer to toss in a new refrigerator?

Whatever the case may be, experts recommend checking your emotions at the door and making intelligent decisions. Remember, your objective in selling your home is to sell it fast and garner the best price possible.

Declutter

Decluttering your home can be a herculean endeavour as we accumulate a lot of stuff over the years. However, it is a vital task that should be done to allow potential home-buyers to examine the space through their lenses. By having open space, you can also maximize the square footage rather than keeping everything cramped with chests, sofas, boxes, and a whole host of other items that take up space.

Staging the Right Way

Staging is a critical tool in your selling arsenal. You want to present your home in the best possible light. Even if your home is crammed with so much stuff, you should try to remove many of these things and stage your living room, bedrooms, or kitchens so that they are attractive to buyers.

Here are several tips:

  • Conduct a deep cleaning of your entire home.
  • Stage your home to appeal to buyers rather than gorgeous furniture pieces (a single-family home will appeal to families, while a bachelor condominium suite will appeal to single professionals).
  • Improve your curb appeal by mowing the lawn, installing a neat street number sign, changing the light bulbs, and organizing the yard.
  • Snap high-quality photos of your home because many buyers will be performing their search online, meaning they will explore virtual tours, floor plans, and still images.

Yes, during the coronavirus pandemic, the buying frenzy meant anything goes, and buyers were indifferent to the conventional approaches to purchasing a property. Conditions have stabilized, and now it is best to utilize traditional methods in the real estate market.

Repairing Major and Minor Problems

From a leaky roof to a leaky faucet, sellers should be responsible enough to help repair major and minor problems throughout your house – inside and outside. By doing this, you can maximize your listing price rather than having to haggle with a buyer about having to repair or replace something. Additionally, home-buyers will request inspections anyway (they have made a comeback in the post-pandemic market!), so these professionals will inevitably find out sooner or later.

Expect Smart Buyers

If you approached buying your first (or second) home with thoughtfulness and strategy, why wouldn’t the person buying your home do the same? In today’s digital age—where expert advice is just a few clicks away—it’s reasonable to assume that everyone walking through your kitchen and inspecting your bathroom is coming in well-informed. The current housing market demands savvy from both buyers and sellers.

Ultimately, most prospective buyers are armed with a wealth of knowledge. Whether they’re using real estate apps or working with a skilled agent, you can expect sharp, well-prepared individuals stepping through your front door.

Finalize the Sale

After both sides of the transaction have agreed to the terms, it is time to sign a purchase agreement. Your attorney or a notary will have likely performed the legal aspects. The title is clear, the required documents have been filled, and the paperwork officials transfer ownership from you to the buyer. When closing day arrives (yay!), the buyer will visit the attorney’s office to finish the paperwork and offer the funds. At this stage, the transaction is complete, keys are exchanged, and proceeds from the sale will be distributed.

 

Source: RE/MAX

05.12.25 | For Buyers

Fluffy Lemon Blueberry Pancakes (gluten-free!)

Deliciously fluffy lemon blueberry pancakes with greek yogurt for a wonderful boost of protein! These healthy lemon blueberry pancakes are made gluten free thanks to oat flour and are filled with bright flavors from fresh blueberries, lemon juice & zest. Add poppy seeds for a lovely spring twist and don’t forget extra berries on top!

Ingredients

  • For the dry ingredients:
  • 1 cup (92g) oat flour + 1 tablespoon
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • For the wet ingredients:
  • ½ cup (113g) vanilla greek yogurt or sub dairy free yogurt (I love siggi’s plant based yogurt)
  • 1 egg
  • Zest from 1 lemon
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ¼ cup (60g) unsweetened vanilla almond milk, plus more if necessary (any milk should work!)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut sugar or organic cane sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon almond extract
  • For the mix-in:
  •  cup (100g) fresh blueberries, plus extra for serving
  • For cooking:
  • Butter, olive oil or coconut oil

Instructions

Step 1

In a medium bowl, whisk together the oat flour (1 cup + 1 tablespoon), baking powder, poppy seeds and salt. Set aside.

Step 2

In a separate large bowl, whisk together yogurt, egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, almond milk, coconut sugar, vanilla and almond extract until well combined.

Step 3

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon until well combined; gently stir in blueberries, if using. If the batter is too thick, add 1 tablespoon milk; if the batter is too thin, add 1 tablespoon more oat flour. (Based on the yogurt brand you use the batter thickness may very slightly.)
Step 4
Lightly coat a griddle with butter and place over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of the batter to the griddle for each pancake and cook for 2-4 minutes until the pancakes puff up and you see bubbles along the edges. Flip cakes and cook until golden brown on underside. If you find that pancakes are browning too quickly then you need to lower the heat a bit. I normally start on medium heat, then decrease to medium low later so that my pancakes don’t burn.

Step 5

Wipe the skillet clean and repeat with more butter or oil and remaining batter. Makes 8 large pancakes total. Serve with maple syrup and extra blueberries on top.
Recipe by: Monique Volz // Ambitious Kitchen

04.9.25 | For Buyers

Do Staged Homes Sell Faster?

Do staged homes sell faster, and for a higher price? The short answer is yes and yes. Conditions have started to moderate from the frantic seller’s market Canada has experienced in recent years, largely due to rising interest rates. With homes taking longer to sell and buyers having more time to shop the market, sellers may have to step up their game to win the attention of prospective buyers. This includes engaging an experienced, professional real estate agent, evaluating the comparables and their asking price, and then staging the property to appeal to the right buyer.

Do Staged Homes Sell Faster?

According to a study by the Real Estate Staging Association, staged homes spend 73 percent less time on the market than their un-staged counterparts. But even an un-staged property can sell under the right market conditions. A seller’s market, characterized by high demand and low inventory, generally means buyers will likely scoop up whatever they can get. In a buyer’s market, there are more homes for sale than there are buyers, which means competition is greater among sellers, giving buyers the upper hand. Under these circumstances, staging your property could tip the scales in your favour.

Do Staged Homes Fetch a Higher Price?

The same Real Estate Staging Association study revealed that 85 per cent of homes analyzed sold for five percent to 25 per cent above the listing price. The answer to this question isn’t always black and white, as the final selling price can depend on a number of factors, including buyer demand, competition and the condition of the property. With all else being equal, a staged home is more likely to leave buyers with a better impression than one that hasn’t been staged, with the potential to fetch higher offers.

What is Home Staging?

Have you ever wondered, what is home staging? Home staging is the process of preparing a home for sale by increasing its appeal to a wide range of homebuyers. Home staging isn’t as involved as a renovation, and can involve decluttering, depersonalizing and deep-cleaning; painting the walls in a fresh, neutral hue; updating hardware and lighting; rearranging existing furniture or renting some new pieces to help show the home in the best possible light. When a buyer can see your home as their home, they are more likely to make a competitive offer.

Why Stage Your Home

When selling a home, first impressions are everything. Home staging is a powerful tool that helps sellers present their property in the best light, increasing its appeal to buyers.

Helps Buyers Understand the Space

An empty home can make it difficult for buyers to gauge room sizes and functionality. Some buyers struggle to visualize how their furniture will fit, leading them to dismiss an otherwise perfect home. Staging your home provides scale and function, helping buyers see how each room can be utilized efficiently.

Creates an Emotional Connection

Beyond aesthetics, home staging helps buyers develop an emotional connection to a home. A beautifully arranged living room can make buyers envision hosting family gatherings, while a cozy bedroom setup can make them imagine restful nights. This emotional pull can be a key factor in prompting buyers to make an offer.

Highlights the Home’s Best Features

Staging your home directs attention to a home’s strengths while downplaying minor flaws. Well-placed furniture and decor can highlight architectural details, maximize natural light, and create a sense of flow between rooms. This subtle influence guides buyers toward seeing the property’s full potential.

Increases Online Appeal

Since most homebuyers start their search online, photos play a vital role in attracting interest. Virtual home staging can make homes stand out in a sea of listings, making potential buyers more likely to schedule an in-person viewing. High-quality photos of a well-staged home can dramatically increase foot traffic and engagement.

How to Stage Your Home Like a Pro

Declutter with Strategy

Decluttering is the first and most important step, but it’s not just about removing excess items. Think “functional minimalism.” Leave only furniture and decor that contribute to the purpose of a room. For example, an office space should have a desk and chair but also a lamp and a notepad to subtly reinforce its function.

Depersonalize, But Keep It Warm

Removing personal photos and unique decor helps buyers imagine themselves in the home. However, a common mistake is making the space feel too sterile. Replace family photos with neutral artwork or lifestyle images, such as scenic landscapes or stylish cityscapes, to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Maximize Lighting in Layers

Natural light is key, but don’t rely on it alone. Use a mix of lighting, like overhead fixtures, table lamps, and floor lamps, to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Try daylight LED bulbs to keep the home looking fresh and bright without harsh glares.

Use Large Mirrors to Expand Space

A well-placed mirror can make a room feel much larger. Hang a large mirror opposite a window to reflect light and give the illusion of an extra window in the room.

Add Life with Plants

Indoor plants bring warmth and vibrancy to any space. Opt for low-maintenance plants like snake plants that require minimal care but provide a fresh, lively look. Even in bathrooms, a small eucalyptus bundle or a potted orchid can make a big impact.

Avoid Over-Staging

While decor is important, too much can make a space feel cramped or artificial. The goal is to complement the home, not distract from it. Stick to neutral colours with a pop of contrast, such as a navy throw pillow on a beige couch, to keep things visually appealing.

Soure: RE/MAX