Affordability improved across much of the GTA in late 2025, but confidence remains the missing piece. Many households are watching job stability, interest rate direction, and broader economic signals before making a move.
December followed a familiar seasonal pattern. Sales slowed, new listings dropped sharply, and buyers had more time and leverage. Beneath that normal winter slowdown, the data tells a clear story about pricing discipline, inventory levels, and what early 2026 may bring for both buyers and sellers.
GTA Housing Market Overview (TRREB)
Key GTA Market Stats – December 2025
| Metric | December 2025 | Year over Year |
|---|---|---|
| Average Price | $1,006,735 | Down 5.1% |
| Active Listings | 17,005 | Up 17.5% |
| Sales | 3,697 | Down 8.9% |
| New Listings | 5,299 | Up 1.8% |
| Average Days on Market | 41 days | Up from 36 |
Source: TRREB
The GTA finished 2025 with a clear pattern. Sales were lower than last year, inventory was higher, and prices adjusted accordingly. With active listings up more than 17 percent year over year and prices down just over 5 percent, the balance of power shifted toward buyers.
Buyers are taking more time, comparing more listings, and negotiating harder. Sellers who overshoot pricing or attempt to test the market are often ignored or forced into price reductions.
Month-Over-Month Context (November to December)
December always brings a seasonal slowdown, so month-over-month comparisons need context.
Sales declined from 5,010 in November to 3,697 in December. New listings fell sharply from 11,134 to 5,299, while active listings also dropped as fewer homes entered the market during the holidays.
This is normal winter seasonality, not a sudden market shift. The more meaningful story remains year-over-year inventory levels and buyer behaviour.
Durham Region Real Estate Market Snapshot
Durham continues to play a unique role in the GTA housing market. It remains a destination for buyers looking to stretch space, lifestyle, and value. December showed that while activity slowed seasonally, pricing held relatively steady month over month.
Durham Region Key Stats – December 2025
| Metric | December 2025 |
|---|---|
| Average Price | $844,473 |
| Sales | 455 |
| New Listings | 529 |
| Active Listings | 1,424 |
| Average Days on Market | 38 days |
Source: TRREB and CLAR-based reporting
Durham’s average price edged up slightly month over month, even as sales slowed from November levels. This stability reflects continued demand for well-priced, well-located homes, particularly in family-oriented neighbourhoods.
Average Home Prices by City (December 2025)
Whitby, Pickering, Ajax, and Oshawa
| City | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Whitby | $948,272 |
| Pickering | $934,518 |
| Ajax | $921,490 |
| Oshawa | $729,243 |
These figures highlight the pricing spread across Durham Region and explain why many buyers cross-shop between communities based on budget, commute, and housing type.
Big Picture Takeaways Heading Into 2026
December reflects a market that reset pricing, kept inventory elevated compared to last year, and is now waiting on confidence. Interest rates, employment stability, and consumer comfort will be key drivers in early 2026.
Many buyers and sellers remain on the sidelines. When confidence returns, activity can increase quickly because underlying demand has not disappeared.
Strategy Going Forward
For Buyers
Preparation matters more than timing. Buyers who are fully approved and clear on their criteria are best positioned to take advantage of longer days on market, relisted properties, and competitive condo segments.
For Sellers
Pricing discipline is critical. Homes that launch with a clear strategy, strong presentation, and accurate pricing continue to sell. Casual test listings are far less effective in today’s market.
Want a Clear Plan for Your Move?
If you want this December 2025 market update applied to your specific neighbourhood, or you are trying to understand what you can realistically afford in today’s market, we can help.
You can:
- Book a one-on-one strategy call for buying, selling, or investing
- Request a custom home value report with real comparables and pricing guidance
- Join our email list for monthly GTA and Durham market updates that are fast, clear, and genuinely useful
Email: Admin@thedrgroup.ca
If you reach out, let us know your city (Whitby, Oshawa, Ajax, Pickering, or nearby) and whether you are buying or selling. We will outline clear next steps based on current market data.


