Ottawa’s real estate market closed out 2025 with a seasonally quieter finish, but the broader story of the year is one of balance, resilience, and stability. While sales activity softened in November and December — typical for the time of year — overall annual results edged ahead of 2024, with total residential sales up 1.3% and total dollar volume rising 4.1%, reflecting steady pricing and consistent demand across much of the market
The year followed an unconventional seasonal pattern, beginning with a delayed spring, moving into a steady summer that avoided the usual mid-year slowdown, and gradually moderating through the fall and early winter. Despite this quieter ending, Ottawa continued to outperform many larger Canadian markets that experienced sharper price corrections, underscoring the city’s reputation for long-term housing stability
Sales Activity & Inventory: In December, 587 residential properties sold, a notable decline from November but very much in line with long-term December averages when excluding the unusually active pandemic years. This slowdown reflects both seasonal trends and continued buyer caution in a market shaped more by thoughtful decision-making than urgency
On the supply side, active listings declined from 3,628 in November to 2,544 in December, as many sellers paused during the holidays. Even so, inventory levels remained elevated compared to recent years, continuing a multi-year trend toward increased choice for buyers. By year-end, active listings were 19% higher than 2024, 45% higher than 2023, and nearly double 2022 levels, bringing months of inventory to 4.3, closer to long-term, pre-pandemic norms
Pricing & Market Balance: Home prices remained remarkably steady. The average residential sale price in December was $658,943, virtually unchanged from the same time last year. While the MLS® Home Price Index showed modest month-over-month softening since summer, benchmark prices still finished 2025 slightly above 2024 levels, suggesting a gradual, orderly adjustment rather than a correction
Overall, Ottawa’s market remains well balanced. Buyers benefit from more options and negotiating room than in recent years, while sellers continue to see solid demand and resilient pricing — particularly for well-located and well-maintained homes.
Looking Ahead to 2026: As Ottawa enters 2026, the data suggests that any increase in activity is likely to be gradual rather than immediate. Interest rate relief has helped improve confidence, but buyers remain measured, watching broader economic conditions closely. The outlook points to modest fluctuations within an overall theme of stability, with market performance continuing to vary by property type and neighbourhood
The key takeaway for homeowners and buyers alike is consistent: Ottawa’s real estate market remains fundamentally sound, increasingly shaped by long-term needs and thoughtful decisions rather than pressure or speculation.