As spring blooms and warmer days settle in, there’s a gentle shift happening—not just in the gardens, but in the housing market too. While headlines buzz with talk of interest rates, tariffs, carbon taxes, and a federal election that’s shaping up to be one of the most debated in Canadian history, I still believe there’s so much to feel hopeful about. This season offers a beautiful chance to get grounded, revisit your goals, and lean into what’s possible.
As of March 2025, the Bank of Canada’s rate sits at 2.75%, with six more announcements expected this year—the next one landing on April 16th, right as this newsletter hits your mailbox. Inflation is still above the 2% target, and economists are watching closely for signs of a potential rate cut. At the end of the day, no matter what’s happening nationally, the best decisions are made with your local market in mind—and with a strategy that’s built on thoughtful responses, not quick reactions.
Locally, in the Hamilton, Burlington, Haldimand County, and Niagara markets, we’ve seen a noticeable cooling in sales. Just 701 homes sold in March—marking the slowest March since 2009! Q1 wrapped up with 1,854 sales, down 27% from last year. But more homes are hitting the market, giving buyers added choice and time to make confident, well-considered decisions. The sales-to-new listings ratio is now at 40%, pushing months of supply to four—above seasonal norms offering huge opportunities to buyers!
Naturally, prices are adjusting. In Hamilton, the benchmark price in March was $754,900—down 4% year-over-year. Burlington saw a similar shift to $995,500, more than 6% lower than last March. This is creating breathing room in a market that’s typically been very tight, and buyers are regaining leverage.
Niagara North experienced the sharpest drop, with sales down over 50% year-over-year. Only 51 homes sold in March against 140 new listings. With months of supply at five, average prices softened to $738,000—down 7% from last year.
Haldimand County remains more balanced. Q1 sales dipped slightly to 135 units, while new listings rose, pushing months of supply to five. Prices fell just over 4% to on average $675,400—with Dunnville seeing the steepest change.
But here’s the thing—this reminds me of the market I grew up around. Back then, homes sat a bit longer. Buyers and sellers had time to negotiate and work together. It wasn’t rushed—it was relationship-based. And in this kind of market, strong agents make all the difference in guiding those conversations and creating real results.
It’s also worth noting: homes with that special something—charm, thoughtful upgrades, layouts prime lots or locations, great presentation—are still moving quickly. These market-ready gems are drawing serious attention, while homes needing work or priced too high are sitting longer. The gap is growing, and strategic preparation is key.
So yes, while sales may be slower and prices are shifting, there’s still plenty of opportunity. Buyers who were once sidelined by bidding wars now have the chance to move with more intention, while sellers—armed with the right strategy and preparation—are still making great moves.
As the saying goes, some of the best opportunities arise when others pull back. With a little courage, care, and the right guidance, this season could be the beginning of something sweet. Spring is, after all, a time for fresh starts—and your next chapter might be just about to bloom.