$495,900.00
Welcome to “Place on the Park.”

This lovely top floor,2 bedroom corner unit, is move in ready. This home has been fully renovated over the last 5 years.

Renos include fully update kitchen/solid wood cabinets/quartz counter tops. New S/S appliances.

Leveled engineered hardwood floors & tiled flooring. Freshly painted walls, trim & doors.

Updated bath with cheater door from M/B. Front loading washer/dryer. Living room has a cozy gas fireplace, vaulted ceiling with fan.

This home has lots of windows for natural light. New window screens/2 balconies.

Large principle bedroom. 2nd bedroom perfect for office or den.

1 storage locker+ in suite large closet. 1 parking spot.

Just a short stroll to WestCoast Express & buses/brand new Poco rec centre/shopping/restaurants/brewery/parks/schools & daycares.

Royal LePage: Canadian home prices forecast to rise 5.5% by the end of 2021 as low inventory and unmet demand set to fuel price increases

• Aggregate price of a home in the Greater Toronto Area forecast to rise 5.75%
• Tech and government sector expansion to drive Ottawa prices up 11.5%
• Canada’s priciest city to experience 9.0% rise as housing demand in Vancouver surges
• Halifax and Greater Montreal prices forecast to rise 7.5% and 6.0%, respectively
• Calgary, Edmonton prices buck regional economic drag, to show modest price growth 

Housing demand exceeded expectations in the second half of 2020. The supply of homes available for sale failed to keep pace, driving home prices higher and pushing unmet buyer demand into the new year. According to the Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast, the aggregate[1] price of a home in Canada is set to rise 5.5 per cent year-over-year to $746,100 in 2021, with the median price of a two-storey detached house and condominium projected to increase 6.0 per cent and 2.25 per cent to $890,100 and $522,700, respectively.[2]

“The leading indicators we analyze are pointing to a market that favours property sellers in the all-important spring of 2021,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage. “Across the country, a large number of hopeful buyers intent on improving their housing situation were not able to find the home they were looking for this year, as the inventory of properties for sale came nowhere near to meeting surging demand. With policy makers all but promising record low, industry supportive interest rates to continue, we do not see this imbalance improving in the new year. The upward pressure on home prices will continue.

“There was a clear shift towards larger properties and single-family dwellings in 2020, as families repurposed homes to become their office, school classroom, gymnasium and restaurant during the pandemic,” Soper continued. “We expect this trend to moderate as life returns to normal in the months ahead. It is also worth noting, that Canada welcomed a new generation of first-time homeowners this year, encouraged by lower financing costs and softer demand for city centre condominiums. Urban living remains attractive for many.”

The value of single-family houses and homes outside of major urban markets are forecast to continue to outpace city core condominiums in the year ahead, driven both by Canadians seeking larger homes in a time where remote work has become more commonplace, and broad-based demographic trends, including baby-boomer retirement.

“Mega-trends that predate the pandemic are pushing home prices higher in secondary markets outside of our largest cities. Corporate Canada’s pandemic-driven move to work-from-home operations has simply accelerated relocation patterns already underway,” said Soper. “The huge baby-boomer demographic began post-children migration to suburban and recreational-style communities in the middle of the last decade, and material numbers of the equally populous millennial generation have been exiting city centre condos in search of space as they began families.”

Soper added that the trend of high demand outside of urban centres will slowly ease as listings in city centres become more competitive against growing prices in suburban and exurban markets.

Immigration is critical to the housing market both indirectly, as it is supportive of economic growth, as well as directly through housing demand. In October, the federal government announced its plan to add more than 1.2 million immigrants over three years, a significant jump from previous years. Previously published Royal LePage research[3] into this demographic shows that newcomers to Canada typically rent for three years before purchasing, after which they have a material impact on new household formation and overall housing demand. An increase in immigration is supportive of both the resale market and investment demand for rental condominiums.

Nationally, the condominium segment is expected to see healthy demand in most of Canada’s largest cities. A notable exception is the Greater Toronto Area where a softer condominium market began emerging in the second half of 2020. Within the region, modest price gains for larger units outside of the city centre is expected to continue to offset softer demand in the downtown core. With the return of international university student rental demand and newly arrived immigrants in the second half of 2021, demand for centrally located units should increase.

The concern regarding the impact of potential mortgage defaults related to mortgage deferrals during the summer has eased significantly, as many Canadians who deferred payments have begun repayment. According to CMHC, as of September 30, 2020, the organization’s entire insured book of business has 5 per cent of loans with a payment deferral in place; a decline from approximately 8 per cent in August.[4]

“The first half of 2021 will be something of an economic and social tug-o-war between advancing medical science and surging housing demand,” concluded Soper. “The real estate brokerage industry has developed protocols that allow us to safely sell property during the pandemic, yet some would-be sellers will remain cautious and not list their properties while high levels of COVID-19 transmission remain the norm, restricting available housing supply.”

Royal LePage 2021 Market Survey Forecast Price Table:

rlp.ca/rlp2021_forecast_table

MARKET SUMMARIES

Greater Toronto Area 

In the Greater Toronto Area, the aggregate price of a home in 2021 is forecast to increase 5.75 per cent year-over-year to $990,300. During the same period, the median price of a standard two-storey home is expected to rise 7.5 per cent to $1,185,800, while the median price of a condominium is forecast to increase 0.5 per cent to $600,800. The relatively flat median price projection for the condominium segment reflects a modest increase in median price for condominiums in the 905 area, offsetting a slight dip in median price for the City of Toronto.

“Single family homes remain in high demand. We expect lighter activity as we near the winter holidays but if inventory does not improve in early 2021, we could have another year of strong price appreciation,” said Debra Harris, vice president, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd. “Low inventory is expected to put upward pressure on prices but we could see low unit sales if there isn’t product to sell.”

Performance within the condominium segment is expected to remain varied with higher demand for larger units in the 905 area. Harris added that while there has been a recent surge in condominium listings, the historically starved Toronto condo market can withstand an increase in condo supply without significantly impacting price in the short term. With the federal government’s new and aggressive immigration targets as well as the expected return of rental demand from university students in the fall, resale demand for condominiums should be significantly higher in the second half of the year.

“Many young people returned home to save money during the pandemic and we expect them to want to get back into city life when the vaccine becomes available. The question is whether consumer confidence in the condo market will be healthy given the surge in listings. The reality is that current inventory is much healthier than where we were last year,” said Harris. “For the many young professionals who were discouraged by strong competition in the condo market in previous years, this window may be their opportunity to find a home they can get excited about living in.”

Greater Montreal Area

In the Greater Montreal Area, the aggregate price of a home in 2021 is forecast to increase 6.0 per cent year-over-year to $514,900. During the same period, the median price of a standard two-storey home is expected to rise 7.0 per cent to $656,200, while the median price of a condominium is forecast to increase 3.75 per cent to $382,600.

“The pandemic has sparked our imagination in the sense that it’s given people the opportunity to take on real estate projects that would have been impossible without the option of remote work,” said Dominic St-Pierre, vice-president and general manager, Royal LePage Quebec. “Buying a property became the main objective of many households, and for some, the only way to get some fresh air during the pandemic. We expect demand will only ease when Canadians truly come out of lockdown, that is to say when travel and regular activities can resume.”

St-Pierre added that Montreal’s real estate market has proven to be surprisingly resilient in the face of 2020’s economic uncertainty and the effects of the global pandemic on urban lifestyle.

Despite the exodus of Montrealers to the suburbs over the course of the last several months, demand on the island for single-family homes, and some condominiums, has reached new heights. Well-priced properties are selling quickly, due to a lack of inventory and accumulated demand prompted by health and safety restrictions.

“In advance of upcoming mass distribution of the vaccine and a return to normal business activity, it is possible that prolonged safety restrictions and their impact on the precarious job market, could lead to an increase in mortgage defaults, which would inject inventory into the real estate market,” suggested St-Pierre. “However, pent-up demand has been so high in the Greater Montreal Area that such a boost in inventory would be insufficient to cool the market, as properties would be absorbed immediately.”

In 2021, Greater Montreal’s condominium market will vary from one neighbourhood to the next.

“Generally speaking, the number of condos for sale should continue to increase, especially in the downtown core, where prices could stabilize or even dip slightly in some cases, attracting first-time homebuyers who can take advantage of record low interest rates,” predicts St-Pierre. “Elsewhere in the region, condo prices could increase. One of the driving factors in condo demand will be the return of foreign students to the city centre, providing improved revenue for landlords who have seen rental prices shrink.”

Greater Vancouver

In Greater Vancouver, the aggregate price of a home in 2021 is forecast to increase 9.0 per cent year-over-year to $1,262,600. During the same period, the median price of a standard two-storey home is expected to rise 10.0 per cent to $1,671,700, while the median price of a condominium is forecast to increase 3.5 per cent to $684,300.

“I am confident we will continue to see prices rise next year. Vancouver has proven to be a rather resilient market,

with high demand and quite low inventory,” said Randy Ryalls, managing broker, Royal LePage Sterling Realty. “In March, we couldn’t have imagined this is where we’d be today, but despite public health concerns, consumer confidence remains high. With very attractive mortgage rates and the promise of a vaccine on the horizon, demand is likely to remain strong.”

Ryalls noted that the current market conditions create a tough situation for buyers, who are oftentimes competing for properties; something he expects is likely to continue through 2021.

“We are seeing multiple offers on almost every reasonably-priced detached listing. There simply isn’t enough inventory to meet the demand,” said Ryalls. “A balanced Vancouver market has about 15,000 active listings available. Right now, we’re sitting at roughly 10,000. If we reach the end of January without an injection of inventory, we will continue to see upward pressure on prices in the spring. I expect a strong seller’s market in 2021.”

Ryalls added that while the condominium market is not as strained as the single-family detached sector, demand remains strong.

Ottawa

In Ottawa, the aggregate price of a home in 2021 is forecast to increase 11.5 per cent year-over-year to $624,000. During the same period, the median price of a condominium is expected to increase 7.5 per cent to $417,900, while the median price for a two-storey detached home is forecast to rise 12.0 per cent to $656,300.

“Ottawa real estate continues to see high demand from Toronto buyers who are looking for less density and more outdoor spaces. Living in Ottawa gives you access to great schools and healthcare, a good job market and you can maintain a city lifestyle while affording a much larger home than what is offered in the GTA,” said Jason Ralph, managing partner, Royal LePage TEAM Realty. “Many local buyers struggled to find what they were looking for in 2020 due to low inventory. With their return to the market in the spring coupled with continued demand from the GTA, prices are forecast to rise significantly.”

Ralph added that while inventory is critical to a healthy spring market, demand is expected to continue to outpace supply.

“Ottawa has very low inventory across all housing types, and the single-family home market is especially competitive,” said Ralph. “We do not see inventory relief coming in the spring, which is expected to result in multiple offers and further price increases. However, despite price gains, Ottawa remains very affordable compared to capital cities internationally, as well as large urban centres in Canada.”

Calgary

In Calgary, the aggregate price of a home in 2021 is forecast to increase 0.75 per cent to $469,600 year-over-year. During the same period, the median price of a condominium is forecast to decrease 1.0 per cent to $258,000, while the median price of a two-storey detached home is forecast to rise 1.5 per cent to $514,800.

“Inventory for detached homes has not seen similar lows since 2001. Buyers are eager to get into the market, but they may have to broaden their search to find a good selection to choose from if they are looking for detached homes in popular neighbourhoods,” said Corinne Lyall, broker and owner, Royal LePage Benchmark. “While spring is expected to bring new inventory to the market, we are also anticipating a healthy level of demand from buyers, resulting in a balanced market.”

As a result of low interest rates, Lyall added that buyer demand has stabilized and the downturn in the oil market is promoting a more diversified economy. The federal government’s recent increase in immigration targets may spur the condo market, providing more price stability and a potential opportunity for price gains. The condominium market is expected to dip modestly in median price, however, high demand from entry-level buyers and single professionals will continue to absorb some oversupply.

Edmonton

In Edmonton, the aggregate price of a home in 2021 is forecast to increase 1.5 per cent year-over-year to $375,600. During the same period, the median price of a two-storey detached home is forecast to increase 1.5 per cent to $430,700, while the median price of a condominium is expected to rise 1.0 per cent to $215,100.

“In the second half of 2020, demand has outpaced supply and inventory is currently the lowest it’s been in five years. Some single-family homes are even attracting multiple offers and I expect to see the buyers who didn’t transact this fall, return in the spring. The question is whether the inventory will be there,” said Tom Shearer, broker and owner, Royal LePage Noralta Real Estate. “In 2020, many sellers took their homes off the market due to their concerns regarding COVID-19. If we find ourselves again with a limited supply of houses on the market, prices will move upward.”

Shearer added the challenges that the Edmonton real estate market has faced in recent years have been absorbed into current pricing as sellers have now made their listings more competitive.

“There is excellent value in Edmonton,” added Shearer. “Homeownership is possible for most professionals, and young families can find detached properties in desirable neighbourhoods.”

Halifax

In Halifax, the aggregate price of a home in 2021 is forecast to increase 7.5 per cent year-over-year to $400,700. During the same period, the median price of a two-storey detached home is forecast to rise 9.0 per cent to $435,300, while the median price of a condominium is forecast to increase 7.0 per cent to $322,300.

“The number of listings in Halifax is the lowest it has been in 16 years and demand is still strong. As remote work becomes more permanent, buyers are moving back to the Maritimes,” said Matt Honsberger, broker and owner, Royal LePage Atlantic. “Halifax will continue to be in high demand as buyers from outside of Atlantic Canada seek affordability and the Maritime lifestyle while easily accessing the best of the city. You can live on the outskirts of Halifax and be downtown in 15 minutes. It’s the best of both worlds.”

Honsberger says while current demand for condominiums is lower than detached homes, there are signals that demand for condos may increase in 2021.

“While international students make up a smaller percentage of condo renters and buyers than other Maritime cities, a return to pre-COVID demand will stimulate the condominium market as students are expected to return in autumn 2021,” said Honsberger. “The timing of new build projects has also been pushed out, which could dampen supply in the new year.”

Winnipeg

In Winnipeg, the aggregate price of a home in 2021 is forecast to increase 4.75 per cent year-over-year to $348,700. During the same period, the median price of a two-storey detached home is expected to rise 5.0 per cent to $401,600, while the median price of a condominium is forecast to increase 1.25 per cent to $230,100.

“Approximately 95% of listings that were added to the market in November, sold. That’s unheard of in Winnipeg,” said Michael Froese, broker and manager, Royal LePage Prime Real Estate. “Even with the increased COVID-19 restrictions, demand remains strong. Heading into the new year, there would have to be a significant rise in our seasonal supply of listings to meet it.”

Froese added that strong demand for homes in the outlying communities is expected to remain a trend in 2021, as companies and individuals continue to normalize remote work and buyers look for homes that fit their new needs. Homes and communities that offer these types of amenities are thriving as buyers seek as much space as possible for their dollar.

Regina

In Regina, the aggregate price of a home in 2021 is forecast to increase 2.75 per cent year-over-year to $335,600. During the same period, the median price of a two-storey detached home is forecast to increase 3.0 per cent to $417,400, while the median price of a condominium is forecast to increase 1.5 per cent to $226,000.

“Low inventory continues to result in multiple offer scenarios as buyers seek larger homes. Consumer confidence is healthy and if we see a significant lift in inventory in the new year, we should have a brisk spring market” said Mike Duggleby, broker and owner, Royal LePage Regina Realty. “There is a high degree of uncertainty, but if current trends continue into 2021, there will be upward pressure on prices.”

Duggleby added that condominiums, after years of oversupply, are proving to be popular with investors who see current prices as below their value.

“Condominium investors have two streams of demand – university students and young immigrant families. If the Canadian government hits its newly revised immigration target and university students return in the fall, demand for condominiums will increase.”

Royal LePage 2021 Market Survey Forecast Price Table:

rlp.ca/rlp2021_forecast_table 

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About the Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast

The Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast provides year-over-year price expectations for Canada’s nine largest markets. Housing values are based on the Royal LePage National House Price Composite, produced through the use of company data in addition to data and analytics from its sister company, RPS Real Property Solutions, the trusted source for residential real estate intelligence and analytics in Canada. Commentary on housing and forecast values are provided by Royal LePage residential real estate experts, based on trend analysis and market knowledge.

About Royal LePage

Serving Canadians since 1913, Royal LePage is the country’s leading provider of services to real estate brokerages, with a network of over 18,000 real estate professionals in over 600 locations nationwide. Royal LePage is the only Canadian real estate company to have its own charitable foundation, the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, dedicated to supporting women’s and children’s shelters and educational programs aimed at ending domestic violence. Royal LePage is a Bridgemarq Real Estate Services Inc. company, a TSX-listed corporation trading under the symbol TSX:BRE. For more information, please visit www.royallepage.ca.

For further information, please contact:

Katie Raskina
Proof Strategies
kraskina@getproof.com
416 969-2709

[1] Royal LePage’s aggregate home price is based on a weighted model using median prices and includes all housing types.

[2] Price data, which includes both resale and new build, is provided by Royal LePage’s sister company RPS Real Property Solutions, a leading Canadian valuation company. Price forecast reflects Q4 2021 over Q4 2020 projections.

Royal LePage: More than half of Canada’s largest real estate markets see double-digit price growth as national home values soar 9.7% in fourth quarter

Fourth quarter regional highlights:

• Price of detached homes continue to outpace condominiums as Canadians trade location for square footage
• Despite strong push toward the suburbs, Toronto and Montreal single-family homes see double-digit price gains in city centres
• Median price of a two-storey home in Greater Vancouver rises 8.8% as buyers prioritize square footage
• Out-of-region buyers spur Maritimes’ home prices, as option of remote work and demand for large, affordable properties grows
• Aggregate price of a home in Canada rose $206,815 since Q4 2015

TORONTO, January 15, 2021 – According to the Royal LePage House Price Survey released today, the aggregate[1] price of a home in Canada increased 9.7 per cent year-over-year to $708,842 in the fourth quarter of 2020, as strong seller’s market conditions continued to shape Canada’s real estate market through the end of the year. The significant year-over-year increase in aggregate price was driven by price gains for larger properties. Sixty-four per cent of all regions surveyed showed year-over-year median price gains of more than 10 per cent for two-storey homes.

The Royal LePage National House Price Composite is compiled from proprietary property data, nationally and in 62 of the nation’s largest real estate markets. When broken out by housing type, the median price of a standard two-storey home rose 11.2 per cent year-over-year to $840,628, while the median price of a bungalow increased 10.0 per cent to $592,899. The median price of a condominium increased 3.9 per cent year-over-year to $509,239. Price data, which includes both resale and new build, is provided by Royal LePage’s sister company RPS Real Property Solutions, a leading Canadian real estate valuation company.

“In April 2020, we issued our pandemic period forecast for Canadian real estate, the principle prediction being that unexpectedly soft spring home prices, historically low interest rates, and years of pent-up demand would trigger a sharp recovery of sales volumes and rising property prices in the second half of the year,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO of Royal LePage. “As we close the books on the strangest year in my long career, ‘recovery’ proved to be an understatement. Looking at fourth quarter results we can state without hyperbole that the health crisis triggered a real estate boom.

“High levels of unresolved housing demand and low inventory levels will likely characterize the 2021 spring market, putting further upward pressure on housing values, particularly in the detached and larger townhome segments, as families with access to extremely low borrowing costs trade traditionally desirable urban locations for more personal space,” he continued.

Nationally, Ontario posted the highest year-over-year aggregate home price gains in dollar value during the fourth quarter. During this period, the aggregate price of a home in Markham increased $133,932 to $1,100,436, the highest dollar value increase in aggregate home price. Markham was followed by Vaughan, which increased by $132,699 to $1,130,483; Burlington, which increased by $115,475 to $950,796; Pickering, which increased by $110,905 to $856,725; and, Oakville, which increased by $109,912 to $1,215,405.

“Confined to their homes, Canadians are struggling to adapt their properties to accommodate the need for an office, school classroom and gym, and find themselves longing for more living space,” said Soper. “Yet buying a house is not like buying a car; for most it is a long-term commitment. Post-crisis, some employers will be accommodating of work-from-home employee requests, and some businesses will require that their teams work together in offices again. Many will adopt a hybrid model. Home shoppers should look at prospective neighbourhoods through a post-pandemic eye, paying careful attention to the things that will matter when we drop our masks, including restaurants, access to entertainment and even walkability.”

Soper added that the surge in sales that characterized the second half of the year is a sign that Canadians feel confident buying and selling properties during the pandemic.

“The real estate industry has shown that buying and selling property can be done safely as much of the search and purchase process can now be done online,” he said. “Our real estate agents can help families looking for a home with efficient digital showings. Physical private viewings of a short-listed property should be done in compliance with best practice and public health guidelines. Clients can use their phone or computer to complete the transaction, leveraging today’s advanced technologies.”

While many Canadians have been seeking larger homes outside of urban centres, demand for properties in Canada’s largest urban centres have remained high. Ottawa’s aggregate price increased 14.9 per cent year-over-year to $568,608 during the fourth quarter, the greater regions of Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver increased 12.4 per cent, 10.4 per cent and 7.2 per cent to $487,380, $936,510 and $1,155,346, respectively.

Strong demand in the fourth quarter also resulted in price stability in Canada’s energy and agriculture regions. During the period, the aggregate home price in Saskatoon, Regina and St. John’s increased year-over-year by 6.3 per cent, 3.4 per cent and 0.8 per cent to $400,173, $327,517 and $325,833, respectively. Edmonton and Calgary’s aggregate home prices remained relatively stable, dipping 0.1 per cent and 0.5 per cent to $372,515 and $467,041, respectively.

Demand from local buyers and those relocating back to the Maritimes put significant upward pressure on prices. During the quarter, Halifax posted the highest increase in aggregate price, rising 17.1 per cent year-over-year to $377,469. Charlottetown posted the second highest increase in aggregate price rising 12.7 per cent year-over-year to $344,823, during the same period.

In December 2020, Royal LePage issued its 2021 forecast stating that the national aggregate price of a home is expected to increase 5.5 per cent year-over-year. To read more about Royal LePage’s national and major urban centre forecast, please go to rlp.ca/2021-forecast.

REGIONAL SUMMARIES 

Greater Toronto Area

The aggregate price of a home in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) increased 10.4 per cent year-over-year to $936,510 in the fourth quarter of 2020. Broken out by housing type, the median price of a standard two-storey home increased 11.9 per cent year-over-year to $1,102,155 in the fourth quarter, and the median price of a bungalow rose 12.8 per cent year-over-year to $923,047. During the same period, condominiums in the region continued to see healthy price appreciation, with the median price rising 3.6 per cent year-over-year to $593,811.

With the exception of condominiums, similar strong home price gains were seen in the City of Toronto where the aggregate price of a home rose 7.4 per cent year-over-year to $960,368 in the fourth quarter. Broken out by housing type, the median price of a standard two-storey home increased 10.6 per cent year-over-year to $1,446,184, and the median price of a bungalow rose 12.3 per cent year-over-year to $1,001,083. During the same period, the median price of a condominium grew 1.4 per cent year-over-year to $634,081.

“Throughout the second half of 2020, buyers were looking for as much space as they could afford. While many buyers shifted their target neighbourhood away from the city centre, so few properties for sale meant that most detached listings saw multiple-offer scenarios,” said Debra Harris, vice president, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd. “2020 did bring some balance to the region’s condominium market but larger units, often in the greater region, are still in high competition.”

Harris added that pent-up demand in the GTA remains significant for detached homes and inventory levels will be a leading indicator of price appreciation in the spring market.

“The GTA real estate market could absorb a short-term influx of detached home listings and remain in a seller’s market. If inventory remains low, prices can only go up,” said Harris.

In December, Royal LePage issued a forecast projecting that the aggregate price of a home in the Greater Toronto Area will increase 5.75 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to the same quarter in 2020.

Greater Montreal Area 

In the Greater Montreal Area, the aggregate price of a home posted a 12.4 per cent increase year-over-year reaching $487,380 in the fourth quarter of 2020. When broken down by housing type, the median price of a standard two-storey home increased 13.6 per cent year-over-year to $619,099 in the fourth quarter, and the price of a bungalow rose 15.3 per cent year-over-year to $391,493. During the same period, condominiums in the region continued to see strong price appreciation, although at a slower pace than single-family homes, with the median price rising 8.1 per cent year-over-year to $367,113.

In the core of Montreal, the aggregate price of a home rose 10.8 per cent year-over-year to $613,268. Broken out by housing type, the median price of a standard two-storey home increased 13.3 per cent year-over-year to $836,790, and the price of a bungalow rose 12.1 per cent year-over-year to $582,225. During the same period, the median price of a condominium grew 7.1 per cent year-over-year to $442,317.

“Conditions were favourable to make 2020 a year of strong growth for Montreal’s real estate market,” said Dominic St-Pierre, vice-president and general manager of Royal LePage for the Quebec region. “During the first wave of the health crisis, it was difficult to predict how it would impact the economy and, more importantly, consumer behaviour. We could have seen a price correction if buyers had left the market. But low interest rates, combined with increased household savings from remote work and new buyer incentives, played a key role in a market that was already highly competitive before the pandemic. In the suburbs and on the Island of Montreal, activity in the single-family segment resulted in double-digit price increases in most neighbourhoods of the Greater Montreal Area.

“Historically, the Montreal core has always been the hottest spot for both sales activity and prices. No one could have predicted before COVID-19 that the pace of markets on the outskirts of Montreal would outpace the city,” said St-Pierre.

In December, Royal LePage issued a forecast projecting that the aggregate price of a home in the Greater Montreal Area will increase 6.0 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to the same quarter in 2020.

Greater Vancouver 

The aggregate price of a home in Greater Vancouver increased 7.2 per cent year-over-year to $1,155,346 in the fourth quarter of 2020. Broken out by housing type, the median price of a standard two-storey home increased 8.8 per cent year-over-year to $1,507,279 in the fourth quarter, and the median price of a bungalow increased 6.8 per cent to $1,265,285. During the same period, the median price of a condominium increased 3.3 per cent year-over-year to $662,120.

In the city’s centre, the aggregate price of a home rose 5.7 per cent year-over-year to $1,306,820 in the fourth quarter. Broken out by housing type, the median price of a standard two-storey home increased 7.3 per cent year-over-year to $2,113,504, and the price of a bungalow rose 4.1 per cent year-over-year to $1,424,474. During the same period, the median price of a condominium grew 3.9 per cent year-over-year to $784,351.

“Multiple offers were common throughout the fourth quarter and almost every detached home was attracting competitive bids. Buyer confidence is strong and current low interest rates make purchasing even more attractive,” said Randy, general manager, Royal LePage Sterling Realty. “Buyers are worried they will be priced out of the market and with our low inventory of homes for sale in the region, prices are expected to go up in the spring.”

Ryalls added that while new listings slowed in the fourth quarter, which is consistent with seasonal trends, the pipeline of buyers continues to grow.

In December, Royal LePage issued a forecast projecting that the aggregate price of a home in Greater Vancouver will increase 9.0 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to the same quarter in 2020.

Ottawa 

The aggregate price of a home in Ottawa increased 14.9 per cent year-over-year to $568,608 in the fourth quarter of 2020. During the same period, the median price of a two-storey home increased 14.8 per cent to $595,991, while the median price of a bungalow increased 15.9 per cent to $588,320, and the median price of a condominium increased 13.8 per cent to $385,525.

“The strong seller’s market is expected to persist through 2021, as demand continues to outpace supply in Ottawa,” said Jason Ralph, managing partner, Royal LePage TEAM Realty. “The city is more affordable than Vancouver or Toronto and that’s attractive to both first-time buyers and young professionals from across the country, especially those with families.”

Ralph noted that prices are set to continue a steady upward climb as potential buyers who were unsuccessful purchasing in 2020 re-enter the upcoming spring market.

In December, Royal LePage issued a forecast projecting that the aggregate price of a home in Ottawa will increase 11.5 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to the same quarter in 2020.

Calgary 

The aggregate price of a home in Calgary dipped slightly by 0.5 per cent year-over-year to $467,041 in the fourth quarter of 2020. During the same period, the median price of a two-storey home decreased 0.5 per cent to $512,107, while the median price of a bungalow increased 0.5 per cent to $493,164, and the median price of a condominium decreased 3.7 per cent to $248,840.

“Calgary remains an attractive place to purchase a home, partly due to its affordability relative to other major cities in Western Canada,” said Corinne Lyall, broker and owner, Royal LePage Benchmark. “With inventory levels the lowest we’ve seen in nearly two decades, specifically in the single-family detached market, I expect a brisk spring market in 2021.”

Lyall added that all signs point to continued stability in the region as an increase in immigration next year will likely create new opportunities for investors, and those looking to relocate to the region as remote work remains a viable option for many.

In December, Royal LePage issued a forecast projecting that the aggregate price of a home in Calgary will increase 0.75 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to the same quarter in 2020.

Edmonton 

The aggregate price of a home in Edmonton dipped slightly by 0.1 per cent year-over-year to $372,515 in the fourth quarter of 2020. During the same period, the median price of a two-storey home remained flat at $427,530, while the median price of a bungalow increased 0.4 per cent to $360,996, and the median price of a condominium decreased 1.3 per cent to $217,141.

“Edmonton’s housing market has been relatively flat throughout the pandemic, with sellers hesitant to list their homes due to safety concerns. However, the resilience of Edmonton’s home prices during the pandemic is reassuring to both buyers and sellers,” said Tom Shearer, broker and owner, Royal LePage Noralta Real Estate. “I anticipate a brisk spring market, as consumer confidence rises once a vaccination plan is well underway.”

Shearer added that demand for detached homes, driven by young families, remains strong and low inventory in this segment of the market is expected to put upward pressure on prices in the new year.

In December, Royal LePage issued a forecast projecting that the aggregate price of a home in Edmonton will increase 1.5 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to the same quarter in 2020.

Halifax 

The aggregate price of a home in Halifax increased 17.1 per cent year-over-year to $377,469 in the fourth quarter of 2020. During the same period, the median price of a two-storey home increased 17.5 per cent to $399,282, while the median price of a bungalow increased 19.4 per cent to $335,744, and the median price of a condominium increased 4.0 per cent to $301,615.

“Inventory levels have hit historic lows in recent months, putting continued upward pressure on prices,” said Matt Honsberger, broker and owner, Royal LePage Atlantic. “Local buyers are looking for more space, and now, more than usual, they are competing with out-of-province buyers, many of whom are returning to the Maritimes. The option of remote work has altered the landscape of the real estate market.”

Honsberger added that many new construction projects are experiencing delays due to uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, further contributing to the supply shortage.

In December, Royal LePage issued a forecast projecting that the aggregate price of a home in Halifax will increase 7.5 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to the same quarter in 2020. 

Winnipeg

The aggregate price of a home in Winnipeg increased 7.1 per cent year-over-year to $330,273 in the fourth quarter of 2020. During the same period, the median price of a two-storey home increased 11.4 per cent to $372,915, while the median price of a bungalow increased 3.7 per cent to $307,841, and the median price of a condominium increased 0.2 per cent to $231,500.

“That remote work will remain an option indefinitely is a reality for many Canadians, resulting in continued high demand for homes with more space,” said Michael Froese, broker and manager, Royal LePage Prime Real Estate. “As long as the supply shortage continues in Winnipeg and the surrounding communities, prices will remain buoyant.”

Froese added that the pace of sales has been exceptionally brisk. In the fourth quarter of 2020, the median number of days a detached home spent on the market was ten, compared to 27 during the same time period in 2019.

In December, Royal LePage issued a forecast projecting that the aggregate price of a home in Winnipeg will increase 4.75 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to the same quarter in 2020.

Regina

The aggregate price of a home in Regina increased 3.4 per cent year-over-year to $327,517 in the fourth quarter of 2020. During the same period, the median price of a two-storey home increased 4.2 per cent to $402,903, while the median price of a bungalow increased 2.1 per cent to $295,421, and the median price of a condominium rose 8.2 per cent to $222,210.

“The trend of steadily increasing prices that we’ve seen over the last year in Regina will likely extend into the spring, as the need for more space continues to drive demand,” said Mike Duggleby, broker and owner, Royal LePage Regina Realty. “We are experiencing an inventory shortage, like many cities in Canada. Until supply can keep up with growing demand, prices will keep climbing.”

Duggleby added that the return of international students to the region will put further upward pressure on prices, specifically in the condominium segment.

In December, Royal LePage issued a forecast projecting that the aggregate price of a home in Regina will increase 2.75 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to the same quarter in 2020.

Royal LePage Home Price Data:

Royal LePage House Price Survey Chart: rlp.ca/house-prices-Q4-2020 

Royal LePage Royalty-Free Media Assets:

Royal LePage’s media room contains royalty-free assets, such as images and b-roll, that are free for media use.

About the Royal LePage House Price Survey

The Royal LePage House Price Survey provides information on the three most common types of housing, nationally and in 62 of the nation’s largest real estate markets. Housing values in the Royal LePage House Price Survey are based on the Royal LePage Canadian Real Estate Market Composite, produced quarterly through the use of company data in addition to data and analytics from its sister company, RPS Real Property Solutions, the trusted source for residential real estate intelligence and analytics in Canada. Commentary on housing and forecast values are provided by Royal LePage residential real estate experts, based on their opinions and market knowledge.

About Royal LePage

Serving Canadians since 1913, Royal LePage is the country’s leading provider of services to real estate brokerages, with a network of over 18,000 real estate professionals in over 600 locations nationwide. Royal LePage is the only Canadian real estate company to have its own charitable foundation, the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, dedicated to supporting women’s and children’s shelters and educational programs aimed at ending domestic violence. Royal LePage is a Bridgemarq Real Estate Services Inc. company, a TSX-listed corporation trading under the symbol TSX:BRE. For more information, please visit www.royallepage.ca.

For further information, please contact:

Katie Raskina
Proof Strategies
kraskina@getproof.com
(416) 969-2709

[1] Aggregate prices are calculated using a weighted average of the median values of all housing types collected. Data is provided by RPS Real Property Solutions and includes both resale and new build.

Which gorgeous House & Home entryway would you choose? 

A. Open-Concept
B. Earthy-Toned
C. Beachy Beautiful
D. Cottage Chic

NEW PRICE on this FABULOUS 1 bedroom & 1 bath condo at Pacific Place.

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-The NEW KITCHEN has white cabinets, stainless steel appliances & quartz counter tops.

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Listed for 419,900.00

Montreal’s luxury house prices post double digit gains outpacing Toronto and Vancouver since onset of COVID-19 pandemic

• City of Montreal posts highest luxury house price appreciation across Canada rising 15.9% year-over-year
• Vancouver luxury condominiums buck national trend posting double digit price growth
• Soft luxury condo demand creates buying opportunities in the GTA
• A balanced luxury property market emerges in Ottawa’s hot real estate sector

TORONTO, September 29, 2020 – According to Royal LePage research, the median price of a luxury house and condominium has risen in many but not all regions since the pandemic disrupted the Canadian real estate market in mid-March.[1] The lower price threshold defining a luxury home varies greatly by region, from $1,000,000 for a Montreal condominium, to $3,500,000 for a detached house in Greater Vancouver.[2]

Nationally, an entry-level luxury house and condominium is defined as $2,000,000 and $1,000,000, respectively. Overall in Canada, the national median price of a luxury house increased 1.0 per cent year-over-year to $2,500,000, while the median price of a luxury condominium remained constant at $1,250,000. Recent steep increases in overall Canadian home prices have pushed more properties over the national lower price threshold, increasing the overall quantity of Canadian homes defined as luxury properties.

In four of Canada’s largest major urban centres, luxury detached houses showed healthy price appreciation since mid-March compared to the same period in 2019. The median price of a luxury condominium decreased modestly in both the Toronto and Montreal regions, while the median price of a condominium in the City of Vancouver posted double digit growth.

“In recent years, baby boomers and older millennials have been migrating to suburban communities and smaller cities, driven by retirements and growing families, respectively. The quest for affordable space has been supercharged by the pandemic, and no property class has benefited more than the large, detached home,” stated Phil Soper, President and CEO of Royal LePage. “Demand far exceeds the supply of detached houses in Canada. Such is not the case in the luxury condominium space, where some owners have been discouraged by the restrictions on access to shared amenities, such as party rooms and pools, and higher density living in general. As a result, the condo segment is more balanced, with people seeking large condos roughly equal to those planning to escape elegant downtown tower living for the ‘burbs.”

Price data, which includes both resale and new build, is provided by Royal LePage’s sister company RPS Real Property Solutions, a leading Canadian real estate valuation company.

Greater Toronto Area

Since the onset of the pandemic,[3] the median price of a luxury house in the City of Toronto has risen 5.4 per cent year-over-year to $3,187,500, while the median price of a luxury condominium dipped 1.6 per cent year-over-year to $1,870,000. During the same period, the median price of a luxury house in the Greater Toronto Area increased 5.9 per cent year-over-year to $3,177,500 and the median price of a luxury condominium decreased 3.6 per cent year-over-year to $1,830,000.

“The Toronto luxury real estate market has been resilient in the face of the global pandemic. Demand has been driven by low inventory, low interest rates and a renewed focus on lifestyle to accommodate for our new normal,” said Cailey Heaps, managing director & sales representative, Royal LePage Real Estate Services, Heaps Estrin Team.

Heaps added that buyers seeking luxury property are focused on lifestyle when looking for their perfect home. With travel off the table for the near future and many working from home, features such as a home office, outdoor space, a pool and walkability are becoming increasingly important in their search criteria. Appropriately priced homes in the established Central Toronto neighbourhoods such as Rosedale, Leaside & Lawrence Park often sell in a matter of days. Multiple offer situations still occur but to a lesser degree than in the pre-COVID landscape, giving buyers an opportunity to purchase in a slightly less competitive market.

“The luxury condominium market has faced some challenges over the recent months. The new rules with respect to short-term rentals, higher inventory and the increased risk that comes with communal spaces or common areas have meant that condos did not perform as well as the freehold market. However buyers will find more selection compared to the inventory of luxury houses,” said Heaps.

Heaps noted that while all luxury buyer demographics are still active, boomers are more quiet this year than previous years. However, often cautious boomers selling their luxury home have the opportunity to stay at their cottage or a secondary property as an additional option during the pandemic.

Looking towards the remainder of the year, Heaps noted that current demand is slowing, which is typical of fourth quarter activity.

Greater Montreal Area

Since the onset of the pandemic,[4] the median price of a luxury house in the City of Montreal rose 15.9 per cent year-over-year to $1,975,000, while the median price of a luxury condominium decreased slightly by 1.5 per cent year-over-year to $1,254,000. The double digit price increase in the city’s luxury house segment was the largest gain of both property types across all regions surveyed.

According to Marie-Yvonne Paint, real estate broker specializing in luxury listings with Royal LePage Heritage in Montreal city, demand for larger properties and land in the region fueled luxury home prices since the resumption of real estate activity on May 11th. This sustained demand has put upward pressure on luxury home prices in the city. While properties in the upper end of the luxury segment are seeing softer demand, listings between $1.5 and $3 million sell quickly. Paint stated that despite rising home prices, the current luxury market is healthy, with a better balance between buyers and sellers than a few years ago.

“Luxury condo buyers will find good selection in the Montreal core, which has seen less demand as a result of COVID-19,” said Paint. “We continue to witness the exodus to the suburbs, new listings in the luxury condominium category are increasing as buyers favour larger outdoor spaces.”

Paint said that the market saw the opposite trend about five years ago with buyers seeking the best of the city through downtown condo living. Paint believes this trend will naturally wind down and the market will become more balanced, offering more equal opportunities to buyers.

Paint added she remains very optimistic for the remainder of 2020, despite a further expected economic downturn.

“There is concern for job loss and our economy but this typically has limited impact on buyers purchasing luxury properties. A more important factor is continued low interest rates, which have the ability to fuel the market,” said Paint.

In the greater region, the lack of inventory in the detached market, coupled with pent up demand has pushed prices upward in the luxury segment, similar to the overall residential real estate market.

Since the onset of the pandemic, the median price of a luxury house in the Greater Montreal Area rose 4.6 per cent year-over-year to $1,925,000, while the median price of a luxury condominium decreased 2.0 per cent year-over-year to $1,254,000.

According to Suzanne Havard Grisé, real estate broker with Royal LePage Privilège in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, on the South Shore of Montreal, areas such as Brossard, Longueuil, Boucherville, Candiac, Carignan and Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville have seen multiple offers scenarios for most of the spring and summer season.

“Being house-bound for months has definitely influenced homeowners’ quest for an improved lifestyle and for many that starts with a larger home,” said Havard Grisé. “There was considerable pent up demand, which included both those who had to put their purchasing plans on hold and those who decided during the pandemic that they needed more from their home. By May, the pace of activity quickly picked up without any signs of slowing down for the detached luxury segment.”

Havard Grisé stated that the region’s condominium market is beginning to see a decline in demand and an increase in new listings, putting slight downward pressure on prices. However, 2019 was a record year in sales across housing categories with a strong sellers market. We could expect a return to a more balanced market in the luxury condominium segment in 2021, although these units, especially outside the Montreal city core, offer more square feet for the price and consequently, great value given the demand for space as a result of the pandemic. 

Greater Vancouver 

Vancouver’s luxury home market is well on its way to recovery. The median price of a luxury house showed healthy year-over-year price appreciation, rising 3.9 per cent in the City of Vancouver to $4,010,000 and 8.6 per cent to $4,180,000 in the greater region since the onset of the pandemic in mid-March.[5] During the same period, the median price of a luxury condominium rose 11.2 per cent to $2,065,000 in the City of Vancouver and 10.0 per cent to $2,035,000 in the greater region.

In the City of Vancouver, the brisk pace of luxury condominium price appreciation compared to luxury detached homes is attributed to the housing type’s relative affordability. The gain in median price for luxury properties in the suburban Lower Mainland region reflects buyers taking advantage of the lower price per square foot, allowing them to buy a larger home.

“Vancouver’s real estate market has been recovering slowly upward from the entry-level segment and is now emerging in the luxury segment. While activity has been brisk for properties priced below $4 million, it has only been the past few months that we have seen clear signs of improving demand and price appreciation for properties above $5 million,” said Jason Soprovich, sales representative, Royal LePage Sussex.

Recent year-over-year luxury home price gains are seen as recovered equity after a sustained correction of price softening and low sales. In addition to the impact from the region’s market correction, luxury properties in the region’s upper end of the market saw significant price declines due to taxation policy targeting homes valued above $3 million.

“Consumer confidence is back but buyers remain price sensitive. The best strategy for a successful sale is accurate pricing from the start,” said Soprovich.

The comparable median dollar values of respective housing types in the City of Vancouver and the greater region reflect weaker sales at the lower price threshold, which defines the luxury segment, outside of the city centre.

Soprovich added that if interest rates remain low and economic conditions remain stable, he expects pent up demand for luxury properties to continue through the remainder of the year.

“Buyers took advantage of price softening of luxury homes priced below $4 million but those opportunities are becoming more rare,” said Soprovich. “The gap between the asking price and selling price is quickly narrowing for homes priced over $5 million but there are still many buying opportunities.” 

Ottawa 

The median price of a luxury house in Ottawa increased 2.9 per cent year-over-year to $1,800,000 since COVID-19 disrupted the Canadian real estate market in mid-March.[6]

“While the Ottawa real estate market continues to post significant price appreciation, price growth in the region’s luxury market has been relatively modest,” said Charles Sezlik, sales representative, Royal LePage Team Realty. “Where we are seeing the big numbers in the luxury market is in demand. Year-to-date, sales of luxury houses over $1.5 million have doubled compared to the same period last year.”

Sezlik added that many buyers purchasing luxury property are local homeowners who are trading up for a larger home where they can live, work and play.

“Many buyers want to stay in their older, centrally located neighbourhood but they also want a home office and a pool. Due to the sizable backlog for contractors, they are looking for properties that already have these features,” said Sezlik. “This demand is driving sales in the entry level of the luxury market and putting upward pressure on prices.”

As affordability wanes in the Ottawa region, how buyers define luxury real estate in the region has changed over the past few years.

“There are homes across the city that are considered luxury now that would not have been considered luxury 5 years ago. Consistently high price appreciation over the years has pushed more desirable properties in good neighbourhoods into the luxury segment as they become increasingly out of reach for many Ottawa buyers,” said Sezlik.

According to Sezlik, current demand for luxury properties in Ottawa remains healthy.

“I expect that we will continue to see multiple offers on homes valued around $1.5 million for the remainder of the year if economic conditions and interest rates remain the same,” said Sezlik.

Royal LePage Luxury Real Estate

Luxury home price lower thresholds: Canada house ($2,000,000); Canada condominium ($1,000,000); Greater Toronto Area/City of Toronto house ($2,500,000); Greater Toronto Area/City of Toronto condominium ($1,500,000); Greater Montreal Area/City of Montreal house ($1,500,000); Greater Montreal Area/City of Montreal condominium ($1,000,000); Greater Vancouver/City of Vancouver house ($3,500,000); Greater Vancouver/City of Vancouver condominium ($1,500,000); Ottawa house ($1,500,000).

About the Royal LePage Luxury Property Market Release

The Royal LePage Luxury Property Market Release provides information on the two most common types of luxury housing in four of Canada’s largest real estate markets. Data is provided by Royal LePage’s sister company, RPS Real Property Solutions, the trusted source for residential real estate intelligence and analytics in Canada. Commentary on real estate markets are provided by Royal LePage residential luxury real estate experts, based on their opinions and market knowledge.