Market Snapshot

Here’s a look at how the Ottawa, Ontario real-estate market performed in October 2025:

  • Total residential transactions dropped to 916 units, down about 2.9% from October last year. This included roughly 678 freehold homes and 238 condominiums.
  • Average sale price across all property types came in at approximately $694,697, which is up about 4.2% compared to October 2024.
  • Inventory and listing pressure continue to build. In September 2025 for example, new residential listings rose approximately 19% year-over-year and active listings increased approximately 19% from year prior, with about 4 months of inventory on the market.

 Centretown Snapshot

Our office is located in Centretown Ottawa. Looking at those statistics:

  • The average sold price in the Ottawa Centre area, which includes Centretown, is approximately $515,688 for the period of August 30 to October 25, 2025. This number includes both condominiums and single family residences.
  • Over the same period, the average days on market was between 31 and 38 days depending on the source used.
  • Given this is a downtown urban neighbourhood with a mix of condominiums, detached homes and townhouse‐style units, pricing and liquidity can vary wildly depending on building, condition, floor level, parking/storage availability, etc.

Emerging Trends for the Whole of Ottawa and What is Likely to Continue into Winter

Several key trends are shaping the Ottawa market as we head into the colder months:

  1. Growing supply / elevated inventory: The number of homes listed has been increasing, giving buyers more choice and less urgency than in periods of tight supply. That trend appears to be persisting and may intensify in winter when fewer buyers are active.
  2. Slower condo segment: The condo/apartment category is weaker compared to freehold homes — fewer sales and slower price growth (or even small declines) are being observed. With winter often being tougher for higher-rise and downtown product, this segment may see continued headwinds.
  3. Stable but modest price growth: While prices are up year over year in many cases, the pace is moderate. With interest-rate sensitivity still a factor, and more choice on the market, many sellers may need to have moderate expectations. This seems to suggests a winter where prices hold rather than soar.
  4. Shift toward a more balanced market: With supply increasing and demand steady (but not overwhelmingly strong), the market is moving away from “seller-favouring” toward more balanced territory. That often means more negotiation room for buyers and more caution for sellers.

Outlook for End of 2025

Heading toward the end of 2025, here are main points the industry is expecting based on current dynamics:

  • Average sale prices across Ottawa might finish the year with moderate gains — many forecasts suggest +1.5% to +2.5% for overall price growth across property types.
  • There may be large variances between the property type, neighbourhood and property condition. For listings that are well-priced, in desirable neighbourhoods, or with strong presentation, expect decent interest. But for properties in less attractive locations, or with deferred maintenance, sellers may face longer days-on-market and the need to be more flexible.
  • Sales volume may increase slightly, potentially benefiting from buyers who had delayed entering earlier in the year and from any interest-rate relief. Some forecasters are showing sales up approximately 4% or so.
  • Inventory may continue to build, especially as seasonal selling typically slows and new listings still come into the market. If inventory rises faster than demand, there may be pressure on sellers to adjust prices or incentives.

What This Means For Buyers and Sellers

  • For buyers: This kind of market, one that is more balanced, has more inventory, and includes moderate price growth, offers opportunity. There may be less competition, more time to shop, and more room for negotiation. Still, affordability remains a challenge, so being pre-approved, clear on budget, and ready to act helps.
  • For sellers: While the market isn’t collapsing, the days of automatic “list high, get offers above list” are more limited. Pricing realistically matters more than ever. Presentation, condition, and timing will help distinguish a listing in a market with increasing choices for buyers.
  • For both: Working with a real estate professional who understands the current local dynamics (neighbourhood differences, condition and presentation, market timing) is key. The market isn’t static, seasons and macro conditions will influence activity through winter and into 2026.

Final Thoughts

The Ottawa real-estate market in October 2025 shows a city with steady fundamentals, modest price growth, and a growing supply of homes for sale. While it may not offer the hot, rapid-appreciation conditions of some past years, it presents a more balanced playing field. If you’re buying, you may find more breathing room and less bidding-war pressure. If you’re selling, you’ll benefit from good demand but need to sharpen your pricing and presentation to succeed.

As winter approaches, expect moderate activity, especially in segments such as condos or less-desirable locations. But with interest-rate conditions and affordability under the microscope, there remains a viable path for both buyers and sellers to achieve their goals, provided they adapt to evolving market realities. By the end of year, a modest rise in prices and stable sales would likely reflect Ottawa’s reputation for a resilient and well-rounded housing market.