As the spring market begins to unfold, the Simcoe County real estate landscape is showing signs of renewed activity with a mix of encouraging movement and price sensitivity. March saw 492 residential sales across the county—a strong 61.8 percent increase over February—signalling that more buyers are stepping back into the market. However, when compared to the same time last year, growth is more modest, with sales up just 6.96 percent.
Despite the increase in sales volume, the average sale price declined by 8.4 percent year-over-year, landing at $807,260. This drop suggests buyers remain highly price-conscious. On the other side of the equation, inventory has risen significantly. Active listings reached 2,098 (up 63.5 percent from last year), and new listings surged by 84 percent year-over-year. Months of inventory now sits at 4.26, indicating a market that is becoming more balanced and shifting toward favouring buyers.
While many markets across Simcoe County are following broader trends, a few stand out for their distinct dynamics.
In Bradford West Gwillimbury, sales were up year-over-year and month-over-month, and homes are selling close to list price. With an average price of just over $1.05 million, buyer confidence appears to be rebounding in this area. Bradford is showing early signs of strength as we enter the peak season.
Innisfil, however, is moving in the opposite direction. Sales dropped 44 percent compared to March 2024, and months of inventory climbed to 8.44, reflecting a sharp imbalance between supply and demand. Despite this, the average sale price increased more than 10 percent month-over-month, suggesting that while fewer homes are selling, the ones that are moving tend to be higher-end or particularly desirable properties.
Barrie continues to show a more balanced trend. Sales were down 27.5 percent compared to last year, but rose nearly 10 percent over February. The average price came in at $734,169, with homes selling at 98 percent of list price. Inventory remains steady, and the market appears to be adjusting in a more gradual, stable manner compared to some neighbouring areas.
Finally, Essa stands out with one of the largest month-over-month price increases in the region, jumping over 24 percent to an average of $931,379. This rise, paired with a 40 percent increase in sales from February, may indicate renewed demand after a quieter winter season.
Overall, the Simcoe County market is entering a period of transition. Inventory is growing, buyers are becoming more active, and price trends are fluctuating as different communities adjust at different speeds. For buyers, this may present an excellent window of opportunity before competition increases. For sellers, strategic pricing and strong marketing are key to standing out in a market where inventory is on the rise.
If you’re considering a move or want a clear understanding of what your home is worth in today’s market, I’d be happy to provide a personalized, no-obligation market evaluation – contact me.
Disclaimer
The prices reflected in this media release are based on homes sold via the live Toronto MLS® System only. The Barrie & District Association of REALTORS® cautions that over a period of time the use of average price information can be useful in establishing trends, but it does not indicate actual prices in widely divergent areas or account for price differentials between geographical areas. The prices reflected in this media release are based on homes sold via the live TRREB MLS® system only.
Using a Local Professional REALTOR®
“REALTOR®” is a professional designation. A REALTOR® is a licensed real estate professional belonging to local, provincial and national associations. They have completed an intensive real estate program and have the skill set, expertise and experiences that you will need when buying or selling your home. Realtors® have a network of resources available at their fingertips. They understand financing and mortgage rules, insurance and liability coverage, and all the legal details involved in real estate. As a skilled negotiator, your local Realtor® will help you get the most value when buying or selling a home.
If you are thinking about listing, don’t miss our tips for getting your home listing ready! In this article, we share tips to ensure your home is putting it’s best foot forward so that you can get top dollar. Whether it’s enhancing your curb appeal or depersonalizing, there are some user-friendly ways to attract buyers.
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