October's market data across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) reveals a cooling trend that's beginning to stabilize. After two years of rapid corrections, prices are flattening, buyer confidence is slowly returning, and serious activity is building in key suburban markets — especially in Durham Region.

If you read my recent Durham Region Market Update, you'll notice the same story unfolding on a larger scale: fewer listings, moderate price adjustments, and renewed optimism from well-qualified buyers.

🏠 GTA Snapshot – October 2025

• Sales: 6,138 homes sold across the GTA (▼ 9.5% YoY)
• Average Price: $1,054,372 (▼ 7.2% YoY)
• New Listings: ↑ 2.7% YoY, giving buyers more choice
• Days on Market: 24 (up slightly from 21 last year)

Despite softer year-over-year numbers, month-to-month indicators are stabilizing — suggesting that the market may be finding its footing after a period of correction.

💰 Affordability and Rate Relief

Recent Bank of Canada rate cuts have lowered the overnight rate to 2.25%, while 5-year fixed mortgages now hover in the 3.7–3.9% range. Inflation remains near the 2 % target — a combination not seen since 2021.

For the first time in months, households are seeing relief on borrowing costs, with the average mortgage payment ratio dropping to 17.2% of household income. That's helping many sidelined buyers re-enter the market, particularly in the move-up and first-time segments.

📊 Durham Region: Still the Value Leader

While the GTA's average home price sits above $1 million, Durham remains one of the most affordable regions at $851,764.

Here's why that matters:

• Durham homes offer roughly 20% more space per dollar than the GTA average.
• Detached and new-build options remain strong, with absorption rates holding steady.
• Many buyers from Toronto and York are migrating eastward, seeking newer homes, larger lots, and family-friendly communities such as Whitby, Brooklin, and Ajax.

🔍 What's Driving the Shift

1. More balanced supply: Inventory is increasing modestly, giving buyers room to negotiate.
2. Stabilizing prices: Monthly declines are slowing, hinting at a potential market bottom.
3. Policy boosts: Ottawa's 30-year amortization and raised insured caps (toward $1.5 M) are improving access to new-home ownership.
4. Buyer confidence returning: Lower rates and steady inflation are restoring predictability, and that's exactly what buyers need to act.

🧭 Eldon's Outlook

The GTA market is entering a phase of stability, where both buyers and sellers can make decisions with more confidence.

Expect:

• A steady winter season with moderate price movements.
• Increased activity from buyers using extended amortizations.
• Continued eastward migration into Durham for value and lifestyle.

If this trend holds, early 2026 could see renewed momentum, especially in suburban new-construction and move-up markets.

📞 Ready to Talk Strategy?

If you're wondering how these changes affect your next move, let's connect.

👉 Book a 15-Minute Strategy Call to review your options.

📘 Or Download my Smart Seller’s Guide to learn how to turn your resale into a new home — and build wealth while you do it.

Eldon King | RE/MAX Hallmark First Group Realty Ltd.

304 Brock St S, Whitby, ON

📧 eldonking.remax@gmail.com | 🌐 eldonkinghomes.com

Market knowledge you can trust. Results you can count on.