As we move closer to 2026, Canada’s housing market is preparing for another shift, and this year’s RE/MAX forecast highlights major trends that buyers, sellers, and investors can’t afford to ignore.
With affordability challenges, rate expectations, and shifting supply levels, understanding the 2026 outlook is key to making smart real estate decisions.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what the upcoming year could look like.

1. Prices Expected to Stabilize. Not Crash
According to the latest forecast, many Canadian markets may experience price stabilization rather than major drops.
After years of turbulence, the market appears to be finding balance as:
* interest rates level off
* demand slowly returns
* more listings enter the market
While some regions may see slight price declines, most major cities, including the GTA, are expected to maintain stable or modestly rising values.

What this means:
If you’re waiting for a dramatic price crash, 2026 likely won’t deliver it.

2. GTA Market: More Inventory, More Opportunity
RE/MAX data suggests that more listings will enter the market across the Greater Toronto Area, easing the competition buyers have experienced in recent years.
With more supply and steady demand, the GTA may shift closer to a balanced market.

Good news for buyers:
* fewer bidding wars
* more negotiating power
* more time to make decisions
* Good news for sellers:
* stable pricing
* strong demand for well-prepared homes

3. Affordability Depends on Rates, and 2026 May Bring Clarity
One of the biggest questions is interest rates.
While 2024–2025 brought several shifts, experts predict rate stability or gradual reductions into 2026.

If rates ease even slightly, it could improve:
* monthly mortgage payments
* buyer qualification amounts
* overall affordability
But buyers should still expect lenders to maintain strict qualification rules, especially with stress test requirements.

4. First-Time Homebuyers Will Re-Enter the Market
After being priced out for years, many first-time buyers may find 2026 a more encouraging entry point due to:
* improved inventory
* stable pricing
* possible rate relief
With savings and down-payment incentives gaining momentum, this group may help drive early 2026 activity.

5. Sellers Must Be Strategic, Not Passive
The RE/MAX forecast notes that 2026 will reward prepared sellers, not passive ones.
Homes will sell, but only if they:
* are priced correctly
* are well-presented
* offer genuine value to buyers
Gone are the days when anything listed would automatically spark a bidding war.
Professional staging, strong marketing, and accurate pricing will be more important than ever.

6. Investors Are Returning, Slowly but Strategically
After stepping back during rate hikes, investors are beginning to explore opportunities in:
* pre-construction
* multi-family properties
* secondary units
* long-term rentals
With population growth expected to remain strong, 2026 could be a favourable year for strategic investments, especially in markets with lower entry costs.

7. Regional Markets Will See Big Differences
The forecast shows high regional variation, meaning the market in places like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Atlantic Canada, and the Prairies will move at very different speeds.
Buyers and sellers must analyze local trends instead of national averages.

2026 Will Reward Informed Decisions
Whether you’re buying or selling, 2026 will favor people who act with good guidance, proper planning, and clear financial strategy.
The market isn’t crashing, it’s normalizing.
And with the right support, it could be the ideal time to make your move.

Need personalized guidance for 2026?
I help buyers and sellers across the GTA make confident, informed decisions with:
✔ Expert mortgage advice
✔ Accurate market insights
✔ Negotiation support
✔ Personalized strategies

📩 Message me anytime to discuss your plan for 2026.
— Ash Khan, Mortgage Broker & Realtor