Ottawa's housing market remained balanced in May. Activity picked up from April — as it typically does in spring — but overall sales continue to run below last year's pace. The good news: prices are holding steady, and both buyers and sellers can find opportunity here if they approach the market with the right strategy.
Not All Properties Are Equal: The market tells three different stories depending on what you're buying or selling:
Single-Family Homes 🏡 The strongest segment. Prices are essentially unchanged year over year, and the median sale price actually rose 1.3% to $800,000. With only 2.7 months of inventory, demand remains solid.
Townhomes 🏘️ Still active, but softening. Sales are down 14.3% year over year and inventory has climbed. Prices have eased modestly — the benchmark sits at $557,500, down 3.2% from last May. Buyers have more negotiating room than a year ago; sellers need to price sharp.
Condos & Apartments 🏢 The most price-sensitive segment right now. The benchmark price of $385,500 is down 6.7% from May 2025, with 4.8 months of inventory — the highest of any property type. Buyers have real leverage here. Sellers need expert pricing and presentation to stand out.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU
If you're thinking of selling… This is not a market where any price will work. Strategic pricing from day one is essential — overpriced homes are sitting. The right preparation and the right number, however, still attract serious buyers. Single-family homeowners in particular remain in a position of strength.
If you're thinking of buying… You have something buyers haven't had in years: time. More inventory, less competition, and stable prices mean you can be thoughtful rather than reactive. This is especially true if you're considering a condo or townhome, where conditions have shifted meaningfully in your favour.
If you're thinking of rightsizing… Perhaps the family home has more space than your life currently requires. The current market is genuinely well-suited to this kind of transition — strong value on the home you're selling, real choice on what you're moving into. It's worth having the conversation.
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