KITCHENER-WATERLOO REAL ESTATE-HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

Posts tagged “condo

Home Sales Continue to Slow in Waterloo Region


I hope you and your family enjoyed a great Halloween. Even with the rain I heard there were plenty of little ones out having fun! Fall is certainly here and the leave piles are growing although we really can’t complain about the weather, its been so nice out lately. 

The latest housing stats are out for Waterloo Region,  lets take a look at what the numbers have to say…

There were 491 residential homes were sold last month, a decrease of 39.7 per cent compared to October 2021 and 36.2 per cent below the previous 5-year average for the month.

Total residential sales in October included 310 detached (down 38.2 per cent from October 2021), and 84 townhouses (down 45.1 per cent). Sales also included 64 condominium units (down 36.0 per cent) and 31 semi-detached homes (down 47.5 per cent).

The pace of home sales continued to slow in October after the Bank of Canada’s sixth straight interest rate hike in September.  Faced with higher borrowing costs, some buyers have had to re-assess what they can afford. As these buyers get moved to the sidelines, sellers question if now is the best possible time to sell.

In October, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $763,630. This represents an 8.4 per cent decrease compared to October 2021 and a 1.6 per cent increase compared to September 2022.

  • The average price of a detached home was $860,568. This represents a 10.6 per cent decrease from October 2021 and a decrease of 0.3 per cent compared to September 2022.
  • The average sale price for a townhouse was $635,197. This represents a 9.0 per cent decrease from October 2021 and a decrease of 0.4 per cent compared to September 2022.
  • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $488,277. This represents an increase of 3.9 per cent from October 2021 and an increase of 7.3 per cent compared to September 2022.
  • The average sale price for a semi was $624,999. This represents a decrease of 10.8 per cent compared to October 2021 and a decrease of 1.9 per cent compared to September 2022.
october 2022 average sales price by property type 2
MLS® Home Price Index Benchmark Price
 Kitchener-WaterlooCambridge
Benchmark Type:October 2022Monthly % ChangeYr./Yr. % ChangeOctober 2022Monthly % ChangeYr./Yr. % Change
Composite$723,200-0.2-8.8$730,700-2.3-9.8
Detached$807,900-0.0-10.1$751,800-2.1-11.6
Townhouse$603,700-1.3-3.2$663,100-2.41.8
Apartment$494,400-0.16.5$520,100-6.67.3
October 2022 HPI Stats Chart for Kitchener Waterloo Cambridge

While there is uncertainty in the minds of consumers about current market conditions, one thing is for certain, Waterloo region’s housing supply remains one of the tightest in the country.  Buyers may be on the sidelines for now due to affordability, but the underlying demand for housing remains strong.

There were 827 new listings added last month, a decrease of 3.3 per cent compared to October of last year and a 14.3 per cent decrease compared to the previous ten-year average for October.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of October was 928, an increase of 134.9 per cent compared to October of last year and 34.9 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1425 listings for October.

The number of months of inventory is up 160.0 per cent compared to October of last year, but still historically low at 1.3 months. Between 2009 and 2015, October’s average months of inventory was 3.6 months. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current sales rate.  

The average number of days to sell in October was 22, compared to 10 days in October 2021. The previous 5-year average is 19 days. 

Average Sales Price – Municipality

October-2022-average-sale-price-by-municipality

Average Sales Price – Township

October 2022 average sale price by township

Monthly Sales By Property Type

October 2022 sales by property type

Monthly Supply of Homes for Sale

October 2022 Months Supply

Monthly Median Sales Price – By Property Type

October 2022 median sales price by property type

Monthly Average Sales Price – By Property Type

October 2022 average sale price by property type

If you are thinking of buying or selling this fall,  wondering what the neighbor’s place sold for, or have any questions at all, give me a call, text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbakerrealestate@gmail.com

Enjoy the great weather while its here!

Kevin


March Homes Sales up but Prices Dip in Waterloo Region


I hope you and your family are doing well. Looks like spring is here and Easter is just around the corner.  The March stats are out and home sales are up over February,  but prices have taken a small dip from the february average as well. Lets take a look at the numbers…

There were 725 residential homes sold in March 2022 is a decrease of 27.1 per cent compared to March 2021, which continues to hold the record for most home sales in a single month. On a month-over-month basis, sales in March were up 19.4 per cent compared to February 2022. The previous ten-year average number of residential sales for March is 599.

The skyrocketing prices of the last two months took a bit of a breather in March, with the overall average price dipping five per cent compared to what we saw in February. While it is too soon to draw conclusions from just one month of home sales, I know many will be comforted to see a leveling off on the average price, no matter how incremental.

Total residential sales in March included 416 detached (down 29.7 per cent from March 2021), and 114 condominium units (down 9.5 per cent). Sales also included 64 semi-detached homes (down 17.9 per cent) and 131 townhouses (down 33.8 per cent).

In March, the average sale price for all residential properties in the Kitchener-Waterloo area was $960,181. This represents a 25.5 per cent increase over March 2021 and a 4.6 per cent decrease compared to February 2022.

    • The average price of a detached home was $1,132,637. This represents a 25.9 per cent increase from March 2021 and a decrease 6.4 per cent compared to February 2022.

The MLS® HPI composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Kitchener-Waterloo was $960,100 in March. This represents a 29.6 per cent increase over March 2021 and a 1.5 per cent decrease compared to February 2022.

    • The benchmark price for a detached home was $1,046,200. This represents a 28.1 per cent increase from March 2021 and 4.0 per cent decrease compared to February 2022.

Even though the average price decreased across all property types on a month-to-month basis, the MLS® HPI showed continued monthly gains for both townhouse and apartment property types. As the province feels its way out of the pandemic, we are beginning to see some very preliminary signs of a potential cooling. We are not seeing quite as many multiple offers and some offers are coming in with conditions. Of course, when we say cooling, we’re talking about a market that has been scorching hot which is why we are pleased to see this happening.

There were 1,131 new listings added last month, a decrease 16.8 per cent compared to the record topping number of listings added in March of last year, and a 28.0 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for March.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of March was 441, an increase of 1.1 per cent compared to March of last year, and 59.0 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1,072 listings for March.

The number of months of inventory nudged up to 0.7 months in March from 0.5 months in February. Inventory has been under the one-month mark since October 2020. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current rate of sales.

The average number of days to sell in March was 8 days, the same as it was in March 2021. The previous 5-year average is 16 days.

Historical Sales By Property Type

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Average Days on Market Chart

If you are thinking of buying or selling this spring, wondering what the neighbor’s place sold for, or have any questions at all, give me a call, text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbakerrealestate@gmail.com

Enjoy the nicer weather and have a wonderful Easter with your family!

Kevin


Sales Up, Inventory Up and Prices Up in Kitchener Waterloo


I hope you and your family are doing well. Looks like this weekend we will have some nice weather in Waterloo Region so hopefully spring is around the corner.  The February stats are out and the market is still moving higher. Lets take a look at the numbers…

The 600 residential homes sold last month is almost on par with February 2021, and an increase of 48.5 per cent compared to the previous month. The previous ten-year average number of residential sales for February is 424.

 In January we reported that the average price of a detached home crossed the million-dollar mark for the first time in December. Now in February, we have reached a new milestone with the average sale price of all residential property types coming in at just over one million dollars in the Kitchener-Waterloo and area. While I think it’s premature to suggest this is the new norm, it does reflect the continued appeal of Waterloo Region to buyers. We also need to be aware and recognize the impact this has on affordability for a growing number of people. 

Total residential sales in February included 331 detached (down 2.1 per cent from February 2021), and 110 condominium units (up 7.8 per cent). Sales also included 44 semi-detached homes (down 4.3 per cent) and 115 townhouses (up 2.7 per cent).  

In February, the average sale price for all residential properties in the Kitchener-Waterloo area was $1,007,109. This represents a 33.6 per cent increase over February 2021 and a 5.6 per cent increase compared to January 2022.

    • The average price of a detached home was $1,214,067. This represents a 33.1 per cent increase from February 2021 and an increase of 5.3 per cent compared to January 2022.
    • The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $572,731. This represents an increase of 37.4 per cent from February 2021 and an increase of 6.9 per cent compared to January 2022.
    • The average sale price for a townhouse was $862,994. This represents a 41.6 per cent increase from February 2021 and an increase of 2.1 per cent compared to January 2022.
    • The average sale price for a semi was $917,535. This represents an increase of 33.8 per cent compared to February 2021 and an increase of 8.0 per cent compared to January 2022.

The MLS® HPI composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Kitchener-Waterloo was $974,600 in February. This represents a 36.8 per cent increase over February 2021 and a 5.4 per cent increase compared to January 2022.

    • The benchmark price for a detached home was $1,090,000. This represents a 38.2 per cent increase from February 2021 and 5.0 per cent increase compared to January 2022.
    • The benchmark price for an apartment-style condominium was $ 464,400. This represents a 33.8 per cent increase from February 2021 and a 6.1 per cent increase compared to January 2022.
    • The benchmark price for a townhouse is $729,900. This represents a 41.9 per cent increase from February 2021 and a 7.0 per cent increase compared to January 2022.

The low listing inventory is not because people are not selling their homes, in fact we saw a spurt in the number of new listings in February, but with homebuying demand still going strong, competition remains high, and homes were snapped up quickly.

There were 806 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, an increase of 9.5 per cent compared to February of last year, and a 24.3 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for February.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of February was 290, a decrease of 2.7 per cent compared to February of last year, and 70.3 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 975 listings for February.

The number of months of inventory nudged up to 0.5 months in February from 0.3 months in January. Inventory has been under the one-month mark since October 2020. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current rate of sales.

The average number of days to sell in February was 8 days, compared to 10 days in February 2021 and a previous 5-year average of 19 days.

Historical Sales By Property Type

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Average Days on Market Chart

If you are thinking of buying or selling this spring, wondering what the neighbor’s place sold for, or have any questions at all, give me a call, text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbakerrealestate@gmail.com

Enjoy the nice weather this weekend and have a great March!

Kevin


Euphoria Continues in the Kitchener Waterloo Housing Market.


Hope you and your family have been doing well and everyone is staying safe. With lockdowns being lifted in many regions across Ontario, everyone is trying to get back to a normal life again. I will say that lockdowns or not, the housing market is starting to experience a little bit of euphoria from buyers in my opinion and certainly speculative buying.  With many buyers especially from the GTA looking for homes in our region, it is pushing prices up fast. 

Lets look at the stats from February…

There were 597 residential homes sold, an increase of 27.8 per cent compared to February 2020, and an increase of 66.7 per cent compared to the previous month. The previous 10-year average number of residential sales for February is 407.

Total residential sales in February included 337 detached (up 23.9 per cent from February 2020), and 101 condominium units (up 57.8 per cent). Sales also included 47 semi-detached homes (up 46.9 per cent) and 112 townhouses (up 13.1 per cent).  

In February, the average sale price of all residential properties sold in 2021 increased by 32.1 per cent to $752,289 compared to the same month last year. Meanwhile, the average price of a detached home hit yet another new milestone by exceeding 900-thousand-dollars for the first time, coming in at $910,126 an increase of 35.4 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $415,322 for an increase of 11.9 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $609,566 (up 37.5 per cent) and $684,787 (up 41.1 per cent) respectively.

We are continuing  to see a dramatic increases in the average price in February due to the persistent and fierce competition for homes in our region combined with short supply, this is frustrating buyers in the hyper competitive market. 

The low inventory and mortgage rates are resulting in multiple offers, higher prices and creating a fear they are missing out on the chance to become homeowners in this unprecedented market.

The rise in the average price we’ve been tracking the past several months has included some exceptional sale prices. That’s why this month and going forward we will also be including the MLS® HPI to provide a clearer picture of our local housing market trends.

The MLS® HPI is a sophisticated statistical model and more stable price indicator than average or median price measures because it considers how the features of a home affects its price – such as age, number of bedrooms, and number of bathrooms.

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Kitchener-Waterloo was $709,600 in February. This represents a 27.9 per cent increase over February 2020 and a 5.6 per cent increase compared to January 2021.

The benchmark price for a detached home was $788,500. This represents a 28.8 per cent increase from February 2020 and 6.1 per cent increase compared to January 2021.

The benchmark price for an apartment-style condominium was $341,200. This represents a 13.9 per cent increase from February 2020 and a 0.1 per cent increase compared to January 2021.

The benchmark price for a townhouse is $526,700. This represents a 33.1per cent increase from February 2020 and a 6 per cent increase compared to January 2021.

There were 737 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, an increase of 21 per cent compared to February of last year, and a 15.7 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for February.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of February was 295, a decrease of 33.6 per cent compared to February of last year, and 73 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1,096 listings for February.

The number of months of inventory was 0.5 in February and has numbered less than 1 month since October. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current rate of sales.

The average number of days to sell in February was 10 days, compared to 17 days in February 2020 and a previous 5-year average of 33 days. 

If you are thinking of buying or selling in the coming months, wonder what the neighbor sold for, or have any questions at all, give me a call, text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca. 

Have a wonderful weekend and stay safe!

Kevin


It Was A Crazy January Real Estate Market in Kitchener Waterloo and Cambridge!


Hope you and your family have been doing well and everyone is staying safe. With the lockdowns in place and the kids home from school it is definitely a different winter season indeed. There is some great news though… the Waterloo Region real estate market is still on FIRE! The average price of a detached home in the region hits a new milstone… Breaking $800,000… WOW!!!

There were 351 residential homes sold in January, an increase of 24.9 per cent compared to January 2020, and an increase of 1.4 per cent compared to the previous month. The previous 10-year average number of residential sales for January is 286.

Total residential sales in January included 201 detached (up 31.3 per cent from January 2020), and 71 condominium units (up 97 per cent). Sales also included 21 semi-detached homes (unchanged) and 56 freehold townhouses (down 17.6 per cent).

In January, the average sale price of all residential properties sold in 2021 increased by 23.9 per cent to $695,582 compared to the same month last year. Meanwhile, the average price of a detached home hit a new milestone by exceeding 800-thousand-dollars for the first time, coming in at $853,945 an increase of 27.3 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $383,196 for a decrease of 1.4 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $566,345 (up 29 per cent) and $626,512 (up 29.3 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in January increased 25.9 per cent to $680,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 23.3 per cent to $801,500.

With demand for homes in the region very strong, the consumer preference is leaning predominantly toward single detached homes. In January we saw buyers paying a premium for this property type, Conversely, even as condo sales were increasing in January, we saw prices for this style of housing soften by comparison.

Supply is just not able to keep up with continuing demand, much of it coming from the GTA, for the strong increases in home prices in Waterloo Region and in many other parts across the province. The number of months of inventory in Waterloo region has numbered less than 1 month since October. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current rate of sales.

There were 432 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, a decrease of 7.4 per cent compared to January of last year, and 37.6 per cent decrease compared to the previous ten-year average for January.

The average number of days to sell in January was 16 days, compared to 22 days in January 2020 and a previous 5-year average of 30 days

If you are thinking of buying or selling in the coming months, wonder what the neighbor sold for, or have any questions at all, give me a call, text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca. 

Have a wonderful weekend and stay safe!

Kevin


Recap of 2020 Housing Market in Kitchener Waterloo


How was your Christmas and New years? Mother nature was nice enough to give us a white christmas and since then we have had some great weather to get outside and do some hiking or other winter activites.   I know with covid  it was a very different year for all of us but i trust you were able to get some time with family and friends in some form.

The stats are out and thought i would share them to keep you up to date on our crazy housing market.  It was a year of fast paced upward movement in home and condo prices here in Waterloo Region. Have a look below to see the stats….

There were 6,492 residential homes sold in 2020, an increase of 9 per cent compared to 2019. Compared to previous years, 2020’s annual sales were 5 per cent above the previous 5-year average, and 11.6 per cent above the previous 10-year average.

On a monthly basis, there were 42 per cent more home sales compared to last year, with 351 home sales in the month of December.

December’s home sales were the highest on record for the month. This marks the sixth consecutive month of record home sales in Kitchener-Waterloo and helps propel 2020’s annual number of transactions over the 6,000-unit threshold for only the third time in our history.

Total residential sales in December included 204 detached (up 46.7 per cent), and 63 condominium units (up 34 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e., semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 20 semi-detached homes (down 9.1 per cent) and 64 freehold townhouses (up 68.4 per cent).

For 2020, total residential sales included 3,899 detached (up 8.1 per cent), and 804 condominium units (up 18.9 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e., semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 450 semi-detached homes (up 6.8 per cent) and 1,346 freehold townhouses (up 7 per cent).

In December, the average sale price of all residential properties sold in 2020 increased by 14.4 per cent to $634,545 compared to 2019. Detached homes sold for an average price of $755,618 an increase of 11.9 per cent compared to 2019. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $383,196 for an increase of 5.4 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $514,760 (up 27.7 per cent) and $574,659 (up 20.2 per cent) respectively.

On a year-to-date basis, the average sale price of all residential properties sold in 2020 increased by 16.1 per cent to $612,521 compared to 2019. Detached homes sold for an average price of $719,203 an increase of 16.9 per cent compared to 2019. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $391,698 for an increase of 13.7 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $468,891 (up 14.6 per cent) and $520,753 (up 18.3 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold last year increased 17.3 per cent to $575,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 15.7 per cent to $660,000.

With more people working from home, some permanently, space has become a greater concern than ever before. When you combine this with all the other great attributes of our region, it is no surprise that Waterloo Region is putting up these kinds of numbers. 

Like many other parts of Ontario, low inventory has become a defining factor of Waterloo Region’s housing market and the new normal. The number of months of inventory remained at just 1 month or less throughout most of 2020.

For historical context, the number of months inventory in Kitchener-Waterloo between 2011 and 2015 averaged 4. Between 2016 and 2020 it was a monthly average of 1.5 months. The number of months of inventory represents how long it would take to sell off current inventories at the current rate of sales.

The average number of days to sell in 2020 was 16 days, compared to 23 days in 2019 and a previous 5-year average of 27 days.

Dollar volume of all residential real estate sold last year increased 26.5 per cent to $3.9 billion compared with 2019.

Looking to the year ahead, we should expect more of the same. Real estate continues to be one of the shining lights supporting the Ontario economy, so we do not expect to see any significant efforts to try to cool the market. Buyers should continue to expect stiff competition in Waterloo Region, and for sellers, there will continue to be a strong interest for all properties entering the market.

If you are thinking of buying or selling in the coming months, wonder what the neighbor sold for, or have any questions at all, give me a call, text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca. 

Have a wonderful weekend and stay safe!

Kevin


4th Straight Month of Record Home Sales in Kitchener Waterloo.


Hope you had a great week and are looking forward to the nice weekend weather coming up. Enjoy them while you can as i am sure the snow is coming sooner than we would like.

It was the 4th record month in a row for monthly home sales in Kitchener Waterloo. The market is a very heated sellers market for sure with record prices seeminly coming up everyday. 

There were 691 residential homes sold in October, the most ever recorded for the month. October’s home sales represented an increase of 28 per cent compared to the same month last year, and a decrease of 9.6 per cent compared to the previous month. The previous ten-year average number of residential sales for October is 471.

Total residential sales in October included 417 detached homes (up 25.6 per cent from October 2019), and 94 condominium apartments (up 34 per cent). Sales also included 134 townhouses (up 26.4 per cent) and 46 semi-detached homes (up 48.3 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in October increased 19.4 per cent to $635,301 compared to the same month last year, while detached homes sold for an average price of $742,596 an increase of 21.7 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $395,627 for an increase of 14.8 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $499,641 (up 15.6 per cent) and $539,434 (up 16.6 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in October increased 19.2 per cent to $595,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 20.5 per cent to $686,000.

Real Estate continues to be one of the few shining lights to help Ontario’s economy recover from the pandemic. We’re continuing to see more buyers than sellers, including additional buyers migrating here from out of the region looking for the quality of life this region offers.

There were 783 new listings added last month, an increase of 16 per cent compared to October of last year, and 11.5 per cent more than the previous ten-year average for October.

The number of Months Supply (also known as absorption rate) continues to be very low at just 1 month for the month of October. The previous ten-year average supply of homes for October was 3.2 months, and in the past 5 years, the average supply for October was 1.8 months.

I can say unequivocally we are seeing strong demand from GTA buyers. What people want and need in a home, and where they want to be located has been redefined in a very short period. Waterloo region is quite rightly, a highly desirable place to own a home.

The average days to sell in October was 13 days, compared to 23 days in October 2019.

If you are thinking of buying or selling in the coming months, wonder what the neighbor sold for, or have any questions at all, give me a call, text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca. 

Have a wonderful weekend and stay safe!

Kevin


Another Record Setting Month for Home Sales In Kitchener Waterloo


Hope you are having a great week and looking forward to the long weekend coming up. It will certainly be a different Thanksgiving for families this year.  I hope that are you are able to spend some time quality with them 🙂

The stats are out for September and the market is still incredibly strong!

There were 758 residential homes sold in September, the most ever recorded for the month. September’s home sales represented an increase of 41.6 per cent compared to the same month last year, and an increase of 8 per cent compared to the previous month. The previous ten-year average number of residential sales for September is 460.

This is far more home sales then what we would normally see in September as buyers seem to continue to play catch up from the COVID-19 hindered spring market. While the pandemic has had devastating impacts on many aspects of our lives it has only solidified the importance of home and homeownership.

Total residential sales in September included 431 detached homes (up 28.6 per cent from September 2019), and 93 condominium apartments (up 127 per cent). Sales also included 178 townhouses (up 43.5 per cent) and 54 semi-detached homes (up 59 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in September increased 17.5 per cent to $637,691 compared to the same month last year, while detached homes sold for an average price of $768,762 an increase of 25 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $390,690 for an increase of 13 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $ 476,636 (up 8.7 per cent) and $544,874 (up 16.5 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in September increased 13.7 per cent to $580,250 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 16.5 per cent to $676,000.

There has been more new listings coming to the market which is fantastic but buyer demand continues to outpace the supply and driving prices up. 

There were 929 new listings added last month, an increase of 13 per cent compared to September of last year, and 17.7 per cent more than the previous ten-year average for September.

The number of Months Supply (also known as absorption rate) continues to be very low at just 1 month for the month of September. The previous ten-year average supply of homes for September was 3.3 months, and in the past 5 years, the average supply for September was 2.2 months.

The year-to-date number of residential sales has increased 2.6% over 2019 indicating that the decreased activity in April and May has been more than made up in the past four months.

We are seeing more and more people moving out of the core areas of Kitchener and Waterloo to the suburbs. This has put small pressure on condo sales and increased demand for single detached and townhomes in the region. 

The average days to sell in September was 14 days, compared to 23 days in September 2019.

If you are thinking of buying or selling in the coming months, wonder what the neighbor sold for, or have any questions at all, give me a call, text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca. 

Enjoy your Thanksgiving with your families!

Kevin


Home Sales Surge in July for Kitchener Waterloo and Cambridge


Hope you enjoyed a wonderful long weekend and the beautiful summer weather we have been having.

It was another crazy month for home prices here in Waterloo Region. Competition stays very high for buyers looking to lock down a house in July.  With the rules around covid relaxing and more people getting out with Phase 3 opening the demand for homes has increased for sure.

There were 734 residential homes sold in July, an increase of 25.7 per cent compared to the same month last year, and well above the previous ten-year average for July of 531.

Total residential sales in July included 464 detached homes (up 39.3 per cent from July 2019), and 65 condominium apartments (up 3.2 per cent). Sales also included 153 townhouses (up 4.8 per cent) and 52 semi-detached homes (up 23.8 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in July increased 22.8 per cent to $639,814 compared to the same month last year, while detached homes sold for an average price of $745,149 an increase of 21.4 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $392,770 for an increase of 15.2 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $465,756 (up 12.8 per cent) and $522,872 (up 20.4 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in July increased 21.7 per cent to $595,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 17.4 per cent to $675,000.

With mortgage rates near all time lows homebuyers remain very confident about owning a home in Waterloo Region and I expect this to contunie going into the fall.

There were 888 new listings added, an increase of 4.3 per cent compared to July of last year, and 15.5 per cent more than the previous ten-year average for July.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of July was 592, a decrease of 32.6 per cent compared to July of last year.

The number of Months Supply (also known as absorption rate) continues to be very low at just 1.3 months for the month of July, 27.8 per cent below the same period last year. The previous ten-year average supply of homes for July was 3.1 months, and in the past 5 years, the average supply for July was 2.1 months.

The average days to sell in July was 17 days, compared to 22 days in July 2019.

Historical Sales By Property Type  

Months Supply of Homes for Sale 

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type 

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type 

Historical Sales – By Price Range 

Average Days on Market

 

 

If you are thinking of buying or selling in the coming months or have any questions at all, give me a call,  text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca  Stay healthy and stay safe!

Have a great weekend!

Kevin


April Home Sales Down but Prices Remain Steady in Waterloo Region


Hope you have been staying safe during the past 2 months. It looks like things will start to open back up in stages and at some point things will be hopefully back to normal.  Rest assured Yogi and I are here to help if you and your family need to make a move and we have the tools and systems in place for both buyers and sellers for proper marketing of our listings, getting buyers to view the properties, as well as ourselves to keep everyone safe.

I thought you would like an update on what is happening out there in the Waterloo Region Real Estate Market, so here are the stats for April.

There were 227 residential homes sold through the Multiple Listing System in April, a decrease of 63.6 per cent compared to the same month last year, and the lowest number of sales in a single month since December 2008.

I think it goes without saying the current pandemic has had a major impact on the number of sales we would normally see in April, with everyone doing their part to flatten the curve and doing their best to self-isolate, the buying and selling of homes have been greatly reduced.

Total residential sales in April included 145 detached homes (down 63.3 per cent), and 22 condominium apartments (down 71.1 per cent). Sales also included 44 townhouses (down 61.1 per cent) and 16 semi-detached homes (down 60 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in April increased 7.3 per cent to $568,738 compared to the same month last year, while detached homes sold for an average price of $657,042 an increase of 7.3 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $367,230 for an increase of 8.1 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $406,463 (up 0.4 per cent) and $491,816 (up 13.3 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in April increased by 7.1 per cent to $525,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 6.3 per cent to $605,000.

There were 417 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, a decrease of 54.8 per cent compared to April of 2019, far fewer than the previous 10-year average of 937 listings in April.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of April was 571, a decrease of 36.6 per cent compared to April of last year.

The number of Months Supply (also known as absorption rate) continues to be very low at just 1.2 months for the month of April, 36.8 per cent below the same period last year. The previous ten-year average supply of homes for April was 2.95 months, and in the past 5 years, the average supply for April was 2.12 months.

I am confident that despite the current pandemic, the slowdown in housing sales will be temporary.  We are still in a strong sellers’ market and with buyers competing for a scare number of listings, now is still a great time to buy.  Now for the first time in a long time, April saw some balance with a sales-to-new-listings ratio of 54 percent – well within the balanced threshold. I have talked to some buyers expecting homes to sell at greatly reduced amounts, and frankly, that’s simply not the case. Home values have remained stable which I expect will continue into 2020.

The average days to sell in April was 19 days, compared to 21 days in April 2019.

 

Historical Sales By Property Type  

Months Supply of Homes for Sale 

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type 

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type 

Historical Sales – By Price Range 

Average Days on Market

If you have any questions or concerns at all, give me a call or text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca . Stay healty and stay safe!

Have a great week!

Kevin


Home Sales in Kitchener Waterloo come in Like a lion and out like a Lamb in March


Hope you have been staying safe during this unique time in all our lives. Rest assured Yogi and I are doing everthing we can to prevent the spread by staying home as much as posssible and limiting client interactions to phone calls, facetime, zoom meetings, etc. We are both here to help if you and your family need to make a move and we have the tools and systems in place for both buyers and sellers for proper marketing of our listings, getting buyers to view the properties, as well as ourselves to keep everyone safe.

I thought you would like an update on what is happening out there in the Waterloo Region Real Estate Market, so here are the stats for March.

There were 577 residential homes sold in March, an increase of 13.1 per cent compared to the same month last year, and 0.2 per cent below the previous 5-year average.

During the first quarter of 2020, there were 1,327 home sales, 14.6 per cent above last year’s result for the same period and 4 per cent above the previous 5-year average.

Total residential sales in March included 348 detached homes (up 7.1 per cent), and 68 condominium apartments (up 5.1 per cent). Sales also included 136 townhouses (up 17.2 per cent) and 25 semi-detached homes (up 4.2 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in March increased 15.3 per cent to $583,752 compared to the same month last year, while detached homes sold for an average price of $679,728 an increase of 15.9 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $378,443 for an increase of 17.9 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $457,547 (up 23 per cent) and $492,752 (up 17.4 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in March increased 14.6 per cent to $544,500 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 16.2 per cent to $628,500.

Now of course is this not business as usual for us as Realtors or our clients. As people everywhere follow instructions to only leave their homes for essential reasons, this is impacting the number of showings, and how properties are shown.

There were a higher than average number of homes listed during the Month of March. There were 864 new listings added to the MLS® System in KW and area last month, an increase of 7.6 per cent compared to March of 2019, and the greatest number since 2015. The number of new residential listings was also 3.7 per cent higher than the previous ten-year average for March.

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of March was 535, a decrease of 35.9 per cent compared to March of last year.

Despite the much-needed addition of new inventory coming to the market, the number of Months Supply (also known as absorption rate) continues to be very low at just 1.1 months for the month of March, 35.3 per cent below the same period last year. The previous ten-year average supply of homes for March was 2.73 months, and in the past 5 years, the average supply for March was 1.94 months.

There were also 51 listings last month that were suspended, which means the listing is temporarily “off-market,” and there can be no marketing, showings or offers during this period.

Trying to sell your home while in quarantine, self-isolating or worse yet, while someone in the house is sick, is not going to be in anyone’s best interest. We know many people are postponing their plans to list their home for the time being. As I mentioned earlier, if you find yourself in a situation where you need to buy or sell then rest assured Yogi and I are ready to help and have the tools in place to market, show and sell your home. The number of sales is keeping pace with the new listing inventory so there are still buyers out there looking to buy. We are doing everything we can to keep everyone safe during this time.

Historical Sales By Property Type  

Months Supply of Homes for Sale 

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type 

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type 

Historical Sales – By Price Range 

Average Days on Market

If you have any questions or concerns at all, give me a call or text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca . Stay healty and stay safe!

Have a great weekend

Kevin


Covid-19 Update for Kitchener Waterloo Real Estate Market March 22-28


I hope you and your family are staying safe and home isolating during these unique and trying times. I am postive that we will come through this stronger and hopefully not take for granted that with friends or dinners out with the family.

I have had several clients and friends reach out to me on what is happening in our current real estate market, so i thought i would put together a couple of brief slides to show you what is currently happening. With everyone being asked to stay home obviously the market has seen slowing of showing activity for homes that are currently on the market. We have also seen a slow down of new listings that have hit the Mls system for Waterloo region.

In the past 10-14 days the showings have dropped off considerably which would be expected given what is happening.  Now does that mean that homes are not selling?  No, that is not true.. Homes are selling but things are taking a little bit longer than usual and not the “norm” that we have seen over the past 5 years.  There are still people that have bought a home prior to this all happening and need to sell their existing home. There are also people that have sold their home and need to buy their next one.

We are still seeing subdued showing activity and have taken strong measures to help both buyers and sellers stay safe when an in person showing is necessary.  Buyers are also using current technology such as virtural tours and facetime walk throughts etc. Our first priority is to make sure that our clients and ourselves are staying healthy and safe.

Below is a graph of last weeks activity on our Waterloo Region Real Estate Board.

You can see that there were 141 sales last week, which means homes that had offers on them firmed up or had offers come in that had no conditions. There are 37 homes that received offers with conditions that were accepted and 210 new listings hit the market. The closed sales are homes that were sold firm in the past months that closed and the buyers took posession. There were also 65 cancelations which are sellers that may have taken them off the market for now due to lack of activity or Covid 19.

I hope that you find this info helpful to answer any questions or concerns that you are been thinking about during your time at home. As always feel free to reach via text or phone at 519-497-4646, messanger on facebook or we can talk on skype etc. We are not doing an in person meetings during this time and we also utitlze electionic signatures for paperwork that is needed to be completed or for listing a home etc.

It may not be “business as usual” but as an essential service we are open for business. Luckily we can do most of our business from home and online when needed to do so. We are here to help.

Have a great weekend and stay safe.

Kevin


Strong Home Sales in Kitchener Waterloo for February.


Hope you have been enjoying the mild winter we have been having so far even with the latest blast of snow. Spring is right around the corner along with the nice weather and very busy spring market. The stats for february are in it was another strong month of home sales here in Kitchener Waterloo.

There were 467 residential homes sold in February, an increase of 36.5 per cent compared to the same month last year, and 15.3 per cent above the previous 10-year average.

Total residential sales in February included 272 detached homes (up 52 per cent), and 62 condominium units (up 14.8 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 32 semi-detached homes (up 33.3 per cent) and 101 freehold townhouses (up 18.8 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in February increased 16.3 per cent to $571,023 compared to the same month last year, while detached homes sold for an average price of $673,825 an increase of 13.2 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $371,923 for an increase of 16.4 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $443,382 (up 12.9 per cent) and $485,831 (up 8.4 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in February increased 18.2 per cent to $550,050 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 18.6 per cent to $630,000.

Like many other markets across the province, the story of our local housing market continues to be one of supply and demand. Market-wide, the number of homes available for sale is simply not keeping up with the number of people wanting to purchase a home in the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

There were 609 residential properties listed in KW and area last month, an increase of 7.8 per cent compared to February of 2019, and a decrease of 5.9 per cent in comparison to the previous ten-year average for February. The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of February was 447, a decrease of 39.4 per cent compared to February of last year, and 62 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1,179 listings for February. The number of Months Supply (also known as absorption rate) in February was just 0.9 months, 40 per cent below the same period last year. The previous ten-year average supply of homes for February was 2.55 months, and in the past 5 years the average supply for February was 1.76 months.

With a multitude of buyers jumping on a scarcity of properties for sale, many homes are selling for more than the asking price.  Using a realtor will ensure you have maximum exposure to these buyers through the MLS® System and will manage the intricate process of any multiple offers professionally.

The average days to sell in February was 17 days, compared to 26 days in February 2019.

Historical Sales By Property Type  

Months Supply of Homes for Sale 

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type 

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type 

Historical Sales – By Price Range 

Average Days on Market

If you have any questions or have been thinking of making a move this spring, give me a call or text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca . Now is a fantastic time to get top dollar for your home so lets sit down, grab a coffee and plan out a strategy that is best suited for your families needs.

Have a great weekend

Kevin


Homes for sale continue to elude buyers here in Waterloo Region


Hope you have been enjoying the mild winter we have been having so far and Valentines day is just around the corner. The January market stats are out and it seems like the trend we have been seeing in the market is continuing once again.

There were 281 residential homes sold  in January, a decrease of 8.2 per cent compared to the previous month. Contrasted to previous Januarys however, home sales last month were only 3.6 per cent below the previous 10-year average, and 3.8 per cent below the previous 5-year average.

For the third consecutive month sales were down in January, which is a direct result of fewer homes being put up for sale. This is causing further price acceleration as we have enough willing and able home buyers contending for those few homes that are available.

Total residential sales in January included 153 detached homes (down 19 per cent), and 39 condominium units (up 18.2 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 21 semi-detached homes (on par) and 68 freehold townhouses (up 7.9 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in January increased 15.7 per cent to $561,029 compared to the same month last year, while detached homes sold for an average price of $670,944 an increase of 18.8 per cent. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was 382,636 for an increase of 26.1 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $439,765 (up 20.3 per cent) and $484,190 (up 18.7 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in January increased 17.3 per cent to $536,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 22.6 per cent to $650,000.

Buyer’s can’t buy what’s not there. The available number of homes for sale, or lack thereof, continued to evade home buyers in January. There is no doubt we would be reporting more sales if we had the inventory to match the demand.

There were 464 residential properties listed in KW and area last month, a drop of 21.1 per cent compared to January of 2019, and a decrease of 35.4 per cent in comparison to the previous ten-year average for January. The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of January was 392, a decrease of 38.7 per cent compared to January of last year, and 63.7 per cent below the previous ten-year average of 1,080 listings for January. The number of Months Supply (also known as absorption rate) in January was just 0.8 months, 38.5 per cent below the same period last year. The previous ten-year average supply of homes for January was 2.32 months, however, in the past 5 years the average supply for January was 1.96 months.

The average days to sell in January was 22 days, compared to 27 days in January 2019.

Historical Sales By Property Type  

Months Supply of Homes for Sale 

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type 

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type 

Historical Sales – By Price Range 

Average Days on Market

If you have any questions or have been thinking of making a move this spring, give me a call or text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca . Now is a fantastic time to get top dollar for your home so lets sit down, grab a coffee and plan out a strategy that is best suited for your families needs.

Have a great Valentines Day!

Kevin


A Solid Year in 2019 for Kitchener Waterloo Home Sales


Hope you had a wonderful Holiday season with your family!  2020 is here and if a new home is in the plans here are the stats from last year to help with your decision making process.

Sales dipped in December, while prices continue to escalate. There were 5,925 residential homes sold in 2019, an increase of 1.6 per cent compared to 2018. Contrasted to past years, 2019’s annual sales were 2.3 per cent below the previous 5-year average, and 3 per cent above the previous 10-year average.

On a monthly basis, sales dipped 9 percent compared to last year, with 244 home sales in the month of December.

Total residential sales in 2019 included 3,590 detached (up 5.9 per cent), and 648 condominium units (down 7.8 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 421 semi-detached homes (down 0.7 per cent) and 1,266 freehold townhouses (down 3.7 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in 2019 increased 9.3 per cent to $527,718 compared to 2018. Detached homes sold for an average price of $614,743 an increase of 7.1 per cent compared to 2018. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was 332,409 for an increase of 9.6 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $409,979 (up 10 per cent) and $439,844 (up 11 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold last year increased 10.1 per cent to $490,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 8.6 per cent to $570,000.

In 2019, the lack of supply continued to be a hurdle for anyone who was trying to buy their first home, move-up from their current residence, or downsize. This ongoing state of the market caused further escalation of home prices in 2019. With interest rates expected to stay low in the year ahead combined with Waterloo region’s ongoing growth, I expect 2020 will see more price gains alongside a steady increase in sales.

The number of months of inventory averaged 1.5 throughout the year, hitting its highest point in May when there was 2.1 months of supply, and ending the year at 0.7 (3-4 months supply is historically normal for Waterloo region). The average days to sell in 2019 was 23 days, compared to 24 days in 2018 and a previous 10-year average of 38 days.

Dollar volume of all residential real estate sold last year increased 10.9 per cent to $3.1 Billion compared with 2018.

While the majority of residential MLS® System activity is properties for sale, REALTORS® are increasingly representing landlords and tenants. Last year 733 residential leases occurred through KWAR’s MLS® System, which is on par with last year and, 2.5 times as many as just four years ago.

Historical Sales by Property Type

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Historical Sales – By Price Range

Average Days on Market

If you have any questions or have been thinking of making a move this spring, give me a call or text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca and lets sit down, grab a coffee and plan out a strategy that is best suited for your families needs.

Have a great January!

Kevin


August Home Sales Ease as Prices Continue to Rise in Kitchener Waterloo.


Hope you had a wonderful weekend. Back to school is here and I am sure all the kids have settled in and got the new school year underway. August was another great month for Waterloo region real estate and here are the stats to keep you right up to date.

There were 459 residential properties sold through the MLS® in August, a decrease of 9.1 per cent compared to the same month last year.

Home sales in August included 267 detached (down 11.9 per cent), and 56 condominium apartments (down 13.8 per cent). Sales also included 97 townhouses (down 4.9 per cent) and 39 semi-detached homes (up 11.4 per cent).

The number of homes sold last month was below the average for August; however, we continue to see strong price gains across all property types.

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in August increased by 6.4 per cent to $524,482 compared to August 2018. Detached homes sold for an average price of $615,568 (an increase of 5.4 per cent compared to August of last year. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $324,778 for a decrease of 3.1 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $420,239 (up 18.3 per cent) and $441,802 (up 10.2 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold last month increased 8.1 per cent to $495,000 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased by 2.8 per cent to $560,000.

There were 574 residential properties in K-W and area last month, a decrease of 14.5 per cent compared to August of 2018, and a decrease of 13 per cent in comparison to the previous ten-year average for the month of August. The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of August totalled 734, a decrease of 17.3 per cent compared to August of last year, and well below the previous ten-year average of 1,426 listings for August. Months Supply of Homes for sale stood at 1.5 months in August, which is 16.7 percent lower than the same period last year.

The average days it took to sell a home in August was 26 days, which is two days fewer than it took in August 2018.

We’re noting differences in market balance depending on the price range, for homes priced under $600 thousand, it is still a strong seller’s market, whereas above $600 thousand, it is a more balanced situation.

One this to look at is the month’s supply of homes, also known as the absorption rate. For homes priced at more than $600,000, the months of supply stood at 3.4 in August, compared to 0.9 months for homes prices under that amount. Months supply is the inventory of homes for sale at the end of a given month, divided by the average monthly closed sales from the last 12 months. The previous ten-year average months supply across all price ranges has been just over 3 months.

It all comes down to what the buyers can find in their price range, homes in Kitchener-Waterloo are definitely in high demand, and there is strong competition among buyers trying to find one that will suit them.

Historical Sales by Property Type

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Historical Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Historical Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Historical Sales – By Price Range

Average Days on Market

If you have any questions or have been thinking of making a move this summer or into the fall, give me a call or text at 519-497-4646 or shoot me an email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca and lets sit down, grab a coffee and plan out a strategy that is best suited for your families needs.

Have a great September!

Kevin


January Home Sales Up in Kitchener Waterloo


I hope you are staying warm during this very unpredictable winter weather. I am sure the kids are loving all the snow days they have had in the past weeks. The stats are out from January and the Kitchener Waterloo Real Estate market enjoyed a great month of home sales.

January was surprisingly busy with an above average number of home sales. There were 307 residential sales in January, an increase of 14.6 percent compared to January 2018 as well as the number of units sold last month were up nearly fifteen percent compared to the previous ten-year average for January.

Total residential sales in January included 189 detached (up 26 percent), and 80 condominium units (up 19.4 percent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 20 semi-detached homes (down 28.6 percent) and 17 freehold townhouses (down 19 percent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in January increased 5.3 percent to $484,076 compared to January 2018. Detached homes sold for an average price of $564,718 an increase of 1.9 percent compared to January of last year. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $303,379 for an increase of 22.1 percent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $368,227 (up 0.7 percent) and $407,852 (up 4.6 percent) respectively. The median price of all residential properties sold last month increased 5.3 percent to $455,000, and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 7.1 percent to $530,000

It was a positive sign to see an uptick in the number of residential listings hitting market, however, the total number of homes available for sale continues to perform well below historical averages. There were 585 homes listed in K-W and area last month, an increase of 25.5 percent compared to January of 2018. The number of active residential listings at the end of January totaled 810, which is 11.4 percent more than January of last year, but still well below the previous ten-year average of 1,189 listings for January. The average days it took to sell a home in January was 26 days, which is 5 days less than the amount of time it took in January 2018.

We have a positive outlook for 2019. I think we’re going to see home prices remain steady or have small increases, sales will continue to be strong but we’re also beginning to see more homes being listed for sale to increase our inventory and provide buyers with additional options. So long as everything else remains equal Waterloo Region should remain a strong and stable market.

If you have any questions or are thinking of buying or selling in the coming months, please give me a call  at 519-497-4646 and we can sit down for a coffee and talk about some strategies that would work best for your family needs.

Have a great weekend!

Kevin


Stronger home sales here in Kitchener Waterloo for October


Fall is here, and that brings with it leaves falling and the beautiful colors of the season. I hope you had a great Halloween with the kids and today i thought i would let you know how the Real Estate did  market here in Waterloo region.

There were  514 homes sold through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System) in October, an increase of 7.8 per cent compared to October of last year. On a year-to-date basis 5,070 residential units have sold compared to 5,822 during the same period in 2017, a decrease of 12.9 per cent.  It was a stronger than average October for home sales and listing activity for sure.  Gradually increasing interest rates could be nudging both buyers and sellers from the sidelines of the housing market in my opinion.

Residential sales in October included 297 detached (up 4.6 per cent compared to October 2017), and 128 condominium units (up 19.6 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 36 semi-detached homes (down 18.2 per cent) and 47 freehold townhouses (up 23.7 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in October increased 7.7 per cent to $489,725 compared to the same month a year ago. Detached homes sold for an average price of $576,731 an increase of 6.2 per cent compared to October of last year. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $310,215 an increase of 24.1 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $387,602 (up 10.9 per cent) and $403,750 (up 13.8 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold last month was up 6.5 per cent compared to October of last year at $444,500 and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 8.5 per cent to $525,350. Not surprisingly we’re seeing the biggest surges in average price happening in the denser forms of housing such as condos. This is partly a reflection of demand being strongest in the entry-level price ranges as well as there being more newly constructed units in the mix.

New listings totaled 760 residential properties in K-W and area in last month, a 14 per cent increase compared to October of last year, and 12.7 per cent above the historical ten-year average of 674. The number of active residential listings  at the end of October totaled 1,014, which is 21 per cent higher than October of last year but still 461 units fewer than the previous ten-year average of 1,475 listings for October.

If you have any questions or are thinking of buying or selling a property in the coming months, please give me a call at 519-497-4646 or email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca and we can sit down, grab a coffee and discuss the best way to make it a smooth move for your family.

Enjoy your week!

Kevin


Home Sales down in Kitchener Waterloo but Prices are stable for July 2018


I hope you and the family have been enjoying the great summer weather that we have had this year. Any big vacations planned for August?

I know that Real estate is always a topic of conversations when you are sitting around the deck entertaining family and friends so here is some information so you are up to date on what is happening here in Waterloo Region.

July home sales were down 16.8 per cent compared to last month and down 10.6 per cent compared to July of last year. A total of 504 residential properties sold in July compared to 564 in the same month last year. On a year-to-date basis, there have been 3,601 home sales during the first half of the year, a decrease of 18.0 per cent.

The story for July is largely more of the same that we’ve been seeing for most of 2018. The number of sales has decreased from what we were seeing the past couple of years to more typical levels, but the value of homes not only remains steady but continues to gradually increase.

Residential sales in July included 282 detached (down 23.4 per cent compared to July 2017), and 130 condominium units (up 14.0 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 53 semi-detached homes (up 35.9 per cent) and 35 freehold townhouses (down 5.4 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in July increased 5.5 per cent to $480,145 compared to the same month a year ago. Detached homes sold for an average price of $584,337 – an increase of 12.4 per cent compared to July of last year. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $292,714, an increase of 4.3 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $359,278 (up 2.2 per cent) and $387,664 (up 9.8 per cent) respectively. The median price of all residential properties sold last month was up 7.1 per cent compared to July of last year at $443,700, and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 12.8 per cent to $530,000.

There were 739 residential properties listed in K-W and area last month, down 8.9 per cent compared to July of 2017. The number of active residential listings  the Kitchener Waterloo MLS® System to the end of July totaled 1,062, which is 3.3 per cent higher than July of last year but still down from the historical (2007-2016) ten-year average of 1,885 listings for July.

The competition from buyers is still out there, but not nearly as prevalent as the past two years. This is showing up in the $400,000-$600,000 price point where we continue to see the shortest average days on market.  I think this reflects both the move-up market as well as the typical home that buyers who migrated down the 401 were purchasing. There is no doubt the mortgage stress-test is impacting buyers. Overall the market here in the Waterloo region remains strong and we seeing that continuing into the fall.

If you have any questions or are thinking of buying or selling a property in the coming months, please give me a call at 519-497-4646 or email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca and we can grab a coffee and discuss the best way to make it a smooth move for your family.

Have a great August long weekend!

Kevin


Home Sales are down but Prices are Up here is Kitchener Waterloo Region


The hot weather is here!!  I hope you have been able to stay cool during our recent heat wave. The June stats are out and home sales in June were down but prices are up! Have a read through the stats to hear how the Residential Home market did here in Waterloo Region.

June home sales were down 12.8 per cent compared to last month and down 15.6 per cent compared to last year’s June which was the second highest on record. A total of 604 residential properties sold in June compared to 716 the same time last year. On a year-to-date basis there have been 3,096 home sales during the first half of the year, a decrease of 19.1 per cent.  After two consecutive years of extraordinary activity where we saw home sales exceeding 700 units in June, some normality has returned to the market. The approximately 600 units that sold last month is in line with the ten-year average for June.

Residential sales in June included 365 detached (down 21.2 per cent compared to June 2017), and 151 condominium units (up 6.3 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 38 semi-detached homes (down 29.6 per cent) and 43 freehold townhouses (down 15.7 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in June increased 5.2 per cent to $489,584 compared to the same month a year ago. Detached homes sold for an average price of $575,003 an increase of 7 per cent compared to June of last year. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $314,180, an increase of 13.2 per cent. Town homes and semis sold for an average of $378,562 (up 10.8 per cent) and $391,830 (up 2.9 per cent) respectively. The median price of all residential properties sold last month was up 5.9 per cent compared to June of last year at $450,000, and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 9.5 per cent to $520,000. There were  850 residential properties listed in K-W and area last month, down 21.5 per cent compared to June of 2017, but fairly close to the historical (2007-2016) average of 859. The number of active residential listings on the MLS® System to the end of June totaled 1,030, which is 11 per cent higher than June of last year but still significantly below the historical (2007-2016) ten-year average of 1,728 listings for June.

This is a good time to sell as demand remains strong and very competitive within some price ranges. The mortgage stress-test is certainly impacting some buyers which has made some price ranges of homes even more competitive. Of course, this is also a great time to buy in Waterloo Region. I think we’ve been traditionally a little undervalued and even with the past two years of feverish activity, Waterloo Region remains an attractive area to live and homes here will remain a good investment over the long-haul.  The average days it took to sell a home  were up slightly in June to 22 days, compared to 16 days in June 2017.

If you are thinking of buying or selling please give me a call and we can sit down, grab a coffee and discuss what the best strategy is for you and your family in this current Real estate environment here in Waterloo Region. Feel free to call me at 519-497-4646 or email direct to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca

Enjoy your July!!

Kevin


Strong Home Sales in May for Kitchener Waterloo


Summer is here and I hope that you able to get out and enjoy the great weather that we have had the past month.

May was another strong month for home sales in the Waterloo region. Here are the stats for the month of May.

Last month home sales were up 12.5 per cent compared to last month and down 15.3 per cent compared to last year’s record-setting May. A total of 692 residential properties sold in May compared to 817 the same time last year. Although unit sales were down substantially compared to last year’s manic market, May was still a strong month of home buying and selling in Kitchener-Waterloo and area.

The ten-year average number of home sales in Kitchener-Waterloo and area for the month of May is 625. Residential sales in May included 414 detached (down 15.7 per cent compared to May 2017), and 169 condominium units (down 7.1 per cent). Sales also included 46 semi-detached homes (down 28.1 per cent) and 53 freehold townhouses (down 24.3 per cent).

The average sale price of all residential properties sold in May decreased 2.4 per cent to $482,873 compared to the same month a year ago. Detached homes sold for an average price of $572,206 a decrease of 3.4 per cent compared to May of last year. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $301,052, an increase of 2.7 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $365,715 (up 1.3 per cent) and $393,616 (up 2 per cent) respectively. The median price of all residential properties sold last month was down 0.9 per cent compared to May of last year at $445,000, and the median price of a detached home during the same period decreased 2.8 per cent to $520,000.

There were 1,068 residential properties listed in K-W and area last month, down 15.8 per cent compared to May of 2017, but up 14.4 per cent compared to the historical (2007-2016) average. The number of active residential listings at the end of May totaled 1,062, which is 27.9 per cent higher than May of last year but still significantly below the historical (2007-2016) ten-year average of 1,719 listings for May.

With interest rates expected to increase in July, we’re seeing strong demand for homes in Waterloo region. Sales are strongest in the four to five hundred thousand price range, and while we’re certainly seeing activity cool from the past two years, once you eliminate those you quickly realize that sales volume and prices remain ahead of the ten-year averages. The average days it took to sell a home in May was 20 days, compared to 11 days in May 2017.

If you have any questions or are thinking of buying or selling a property in the coming months, please give me a call at 519-497-4646 or email to kevinbaker@kwhometeam.ca and we can grab a coffee and discuss the best way to make it a smooth move for your family.

Have a great June!

Kevin


Over 800 Homes Sales in May Sets Record For Kitchener Waterloo


I hope you and your family have been doing well and enjoying the wonderful weather we have been having over the past month!! Summer certainly seems to be here.

Well May was another record setting month here in Waterloo region. There were 816 Residential properties sold through the  MLS® System in May, an increase of 8.2 per cent compared to May 2016, and a 6 per cent increase compared to the previous month. This is the second consecutive month unit sales have hit an all-time high.

Home sales in May included 493 detached homes (up 3.8 per cent compared to May 2016), 180 condominium units (up 7.8 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 64 semi-detached homes (up 39.1 percent) and 70 freehold townhouses (up 22.8 per cent).

With the persistent buyer demand that we’ve been experiencing these past several months, it was great to see that spike in residential listings. It certainly helped to give buyers more choice. There were 1,271 residential properties listed in K-W and area last month, a 38.6 per cent increase compared to May of 2016, and a 29 per cent increase compared to the previous month. It’s the first time in two years that the number of new listings put on the market has exceeded the 1,000 unit mark. The five-year average for new listings in May is 989.

While more homes were listed in May, it continues to be a seller’s market in Waterloo region and across the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) as inventories remain tight at near or less than one month of inventory.

The average sales price of all residential sales increased 31 per cent to $496,664 compared to May 2016. Detached homes sold for an average price of $594,047 an increase of 35.3 per cent, while the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $293,158, an increase of 25.8 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $361,198 (up 30 per cent) and $383,819 (up 29.3 per cent) respectively. Ongoing demand for homes in Waterloo region has resulted in a shorter sales cycle.

The average days on market in May was 12, compared to 24 days a year ago. On a month to month basis, it took two additional days on average from list to sale date in May compared to April.

Looking at the Fair Housing Plan that was announced by the Ontario government in April, we think it is still too soon to know if the measures will have the intended cooling effect on the market.  For now, home sales are still booming, and prices are going strong. While we continued to see big year-over year price gains in May, the overall residential average price did dip 3 per cent compared to April. Keep in mind that one month does not make a trend but the spike in listings last month may have contributed to the flatter prices. Looking forward to the summer will help gauge where the market is headed going into the last half of this year.

If you have any questions or are thinking of buying or selling a home in the next few month feel free to give me a call  at 519-497-4646 or email to baker_kevin@rogers.com and we can sit down and discuss some options that best suit your families needs.

Have a great June!
Kevin


April was showered with Home Sales in Kitchener Waterloo


I hope you and your family have been doing well and enjoying the wonderful weather we have been having over the past month despite all the rain.

It was another incredible record setting month for home sales as 766 residential transactions were recorded through MLS®  of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS®. That’s an  increase of 14.3 percent compared to April 2016.

Residential sales in April included 492 detached homes (up 14.7 percent compared to April 2016), 161 condominium units (down 1.2 percent). Sales also included 52 semi-detached homes (up 30 percent) and 53 freehold townhouses (up 60.6 percent). What that says is that Home buyers are out in full force!

One very encouraging sign was that we saw more listings coming onto the market last month than we’ve seen in quite a while. There were 985 residential properties listed in K-W and area last month, a 17.8 percent increase compared to April of 2016, and the first time the number of new listings put on the market in a single month has come so close to the 1,000 unit mark in two years.

However, with inventory continuing to sit at or below one month of inventory for the ninth consecutive month, there continues to be a lot of pressure on prices. By the end of April, there were only 652 residential listings still active,  that’s 48.8 percent fewer than the 1,274 available listings that were on the market at the end of April 2016.

The average sales price of all residential sales increased 39.7 percent to $512,656 compared to April 2016. Detached homes sold for an average price of $594,453 an increase of 40.1 percent, while the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $267,455, an increase of 18.3 percent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $377,531 (up 39.3 percent) and $415,709 (up 47.7 percent) respectively.

Vigorous demand for homes in Waterloo region meant homes were snapped up quickly. The average days on market in April were 10, compared to 33 days a year ago. On a month to month basis, it took four fewer days from list to sale date in April compared to March.

To address the growing concern around housing affordability, the province recently announced 16 measures for home buyers and renters, called Ontario’s Fair Housing Plan.  It’s still too soon to say what kind of impact these change will have on the market, but i think its a good first step to help get more supply of homes to the market.

If you are thinking of selling or buying in this market,  it is a great idea to have a strategy and plan in place. If you would like to sit down and discuss options just give me a call at 519-497-4646 or email to kevinbakerrealestate@gmail.com

Have a fantastic May!

Kevin


Another Record Breaking Month for Kitchener Waterloo Home Sales


 

The trend continues here in the Kitchener Waterloo housing market as well as many other urban centers in Ontario. It was another record breaking month for homes sales in the region mostly due to the lack of inventory.

Home sales through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System)  totaled 535 last month, an increase of 27.1 percent compared to November of 2015, marking another record breaking month for residential properties sold. November’s sales included 352 single detached homes (up 34.4 percent compared to November 2015) and 118 condominium type units (down 22.9%) which include any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 32 semi-detached homes (up 45.5 percent) and 28 freehold townhouses (down 20 percent).

Record breaking sales are also being tallied on a year-to-date basis with 6,352 residential transactions compared to 5,341 during the same period in 2015, representing an increase of 18.9 percent. “Year-to-Date Sales to the end of November have now exceeded any previous end-of-year totals on record.

In 2007, sales to the end of the year exceeded 6,000 units for the first time, and haven’t hit that high-water mark again, until now, an entire month earlier. Inventory levels on the other hand, remain stubbornly low. In their October release, the Canadian Real Estate Association stated that, “the tight balance between housing supply and demand in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe region is without precedent (including the GTA, Hamilton-Burlington, Oakville-Milton, Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Brantford, the Niagara Region, Barrie and nearby cottage country).” As of the end of November, the KWAR’ MLS® System only had 565 active residential listings on the market, down 23.1 percent compared to the previous month, and 60.8 percent below the same period last year.

The average price of all residential properties sold in November was $411,602 a 15.5 percent increase over 2015. Detached homes sold for an average price of $473,104, an increase of 13.9 percent compared to November 2015. During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $209,360, a decrease of 8 percent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $310,151 (up 14.8 percent) and $330,534 (up 27.7 percent) respectively.

With a notable shortage of inventory, many properties are selling above list price and  this is because you have many buyers competing for fewer properties, and this is pushing up the average price. The median price of all residential properties sold in November increased 18 percent to $377,500, and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 16.4 percent to $425,000.

In my opinion those are some staggering numbers and there is no sign of it slowing down in the near future.

If you have any questions on the information or are thinking of buying or selling your home now or in the spring please give me a call and we can sit down and discuss the best options and strategies for you and your family.

 

Have a wonderful December and Holiday Season!

Kevin