Sales Rebound in May 2025: Burlington & Oakville Real Estate Shows Promising Signs

While local inventory and buyer sentiment heavily influence housing conditions, broader economic forces—like the evolving trade relationship between Canada and the U.S.—are beginning to cast a long shadow over our real estate market.

Let’s take a closer look at the 2025 year-to-date housing trends in Burlington and Oakville.

Burlington YTD Market Snapshot

• Detached Homes

  • Avg Price: $1,435,644 (-2%)

  • Sales: -18%

  • New Listings: +16%

Detached prices have dipped slightly despite healthy listing growth, reflecting a more cautious buyer pool.

• Townhouses

  • Avg Price: $864,698 (+2%)

  • Sales: -32%

  • New Listings: +11%

Modest price growth has not offset the significant sales decline. The increased inventory hints at slower turnover.

• Condos

  • Avg Price: $672,915 (+2%)

  • Sales: -32%

  • New Listings: +11%

Similar to townhouses, the condo market is seeing a demand dip with supply starting to outpace sales.

Oakville YTD Market Snapshot

• Detached Homes

  • Avg Price: $1,993,777 (-4%)

  • Sales: -39%

  • New Listings: +3%

Home values are declining, and sales are softening significantly, though inventory remains stable.

• Townhouses

  • Avg Price: $1,058,874 (+4%)

  • Sales: -33%

  • New Listings: +31%

Price growth in Oakville townhomes contrasts with declining sales, pointing to potential future price adjustments.

• Condos

  • Avg Price: $755,071 (+4%)

  • Sales: -33%

  • New Listings: +31%

Higher condo values may not hold if sales don’t rebound. Inventory growth is something to monitor closely.

Encouraging May Sales….will this continue? 

• Sales are UP Month-Over-Month: In May 2025, Burlington saw a 29% increase in detached home sales, 8% in townhouses, and 5% in condos. Oakville experienced even stronger gains: 32% more detached sales, 42% more townhouse sales, and 26% more condo sales compared to April.

• Pricing Remains Volatile: Despite the rebound in activity, average prices declined slightly for detached homes in both cities. However, townhomes and condos in Oakville are seeing positive growth.

• Inventory Expanding: New listings surged in May—particularly in Burlington’s detached market (+32%) and Oakville’s townhouse market (+6%), giving buyers more options and room to negotiate.

US-Canada Trade Tensions: What’s the Real Estate Risk?

Ongoing trade friction between Canada and the U.S. may seem removed from local housing—but the effects could be significant:

• Consumer Confidence: Economic anxiety often delays big decisions like buying a home.

• Interest Rate Impact: Trade instability can affect Bank of Canada decisions, influencing mortgage affordability.

• Construction and Supply Chains: Tariffs could raise building material costs, slowing new housing starts.

• Investor Uncertainty: Foreign and institutional investors may pause or redirect funds in volatile periods.

Final Thoughts

With rising inventory and declining sales, both Burlington and Oakville are clearly in a buyer’s market. Add to that a layer of macro uncertainty from political and trade developments, and it’s clear: real estate in 2025 will demand sharper insight and flexibility.

Homeowner Tips: Staying Grounded in a Shifting Market

Despite the cooling in sales, home prices—especially in prime areas—are holding better than headlines may suggest. If you're a homeowner, here’s how to stay ahead:

• ✅ Don’t Panic: Average prices are only slightly down or even up in many segments. Equity loss is far from widespread.

• 🏡 Think Long-Term: Real estate is a long-term investment. Temporary slowdowns don’t erase years of value gains.

• 🔧 Invest in Upkeep: With more competition, well-maintained homes sell faster and closer to asking price.

• 📈 Know Your Local Numbers: National headlines don’t reflect your street. Market dynamics vary by property type and location.

• 🤝 Consult Experts: A local real estate agent or mortgage advisor can help you make informed, confident decisions.

Bottom Line

Whether you’re selling, buying, or holding, staying educated and agile will be key. The market may be cooling—but it’s not collapsing. And with the right strategy, this environment can still work in your favour.