As we move into November, the fall real estate market continues to evolve across Waterloo Region. Cooler temperatures and shorter days haven’t stopped buyers from exploring opportunities, especially as borrowing costs begin to ease and inventory levels remain healthy. It’s a season where strategy and timing make all the difference, and understanding the numbers helps put everything into perspective.

 

 

October brought a slower pace to the Waterloo Region housing market, with 569 homes sold through the MLS® System of the Cornerstone Association of REALTORS®. That’s 6.7% fewer sales than October 2024 and 18.4% below the 10-year average for the month.

 

While activity remains below historical norms, sales did pick up compared to September. With borrowing costs beginning to ease and more listings available than usual for this time of year, buyers currently have more choice across all property types.

 

 

 

 

Overall: 3.9 months’ supply (up 30%)

 

 

 

The Bank of Canada’s recent 0.25% rate cut, part of a broader easing trend that has now delivered nine reductions since mid-2024, is helping bring borrowing costs back to more balanced levels. The key interest rate now sits just below its 30-year average, which is historically considered a neutral or supportive range for the housing market.

 

While housing affordability remains stretched, mortgage carrying costs are now near their lowest point in five years for many two-income households, and the effects of these rate cuts typically take six to twelve months to fully reach the market. This means we may see improved buyer confidence heading into early 2026.

 

At the same time, local fundamentals remain strong. Detached home completions are at their lowest level in nearly three decades, and construction costs continue to rise faster than inflation-both factors that will help stabilize prices.

 

Still, broader economic conditions bear watching. Canada’s real estate outlook will depend on:

 

 

Locally, the fall market is offering more balance and opportunity. Buyers have increased selection and more negotiating power than they’ve had in years, while sellers benefit from stable demand and limited new construction.

Even if prices experience small adjustments in the months ahead, a significant correction remains unlikely-supply remains constrained, and demand will strengthen as affordability improves.

 

With the right strategy and data-driven approach, this market still offers meaningful opportunities on both sides of the transaction.

 

If you’re thinking about buying or selling, or simply want expert real estate advice, please reach out. We’d love to hear from you and help you plan for the future around your goals.

 

And if selling may be on your horizon for the new year, now is the perfect time to capture seasonal photos of your exterior and landscaping before the snow arrives. Having those images on hand makes a big difference when preparing your home for the market in winter or early spring.

Becky Deutschmann & Drew Dickinson

becky@elitere.ca | drew@elitere.ca

(519) 841-6511 | (519) 500-2805

The Deutschmann Team's 
Featured Listings

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When your home hits the market and an offer comes in quickly, it’s easy to wonder if you should wait for something better. But the first offer isn’t always the one to second-guess — in fact, it’s often the most serious.

 

 

 

Buyers who submit offers early are usually the ones who’ve been actively watching the market. They know the neighbourhood, they’ve seen the competition, and they’re ready to act fast when the right home appears. These buyers are typically pre-approved, motivated, and less likely to waste time — which can make for a smoother deal from start to finish.

 

 

 

A common misconception is that patience guarantees a higher price. But in reality, the longer a listing sits, the less urgency buyers feel. New offers that come in later often reflect more hesitation, not higher confidence. If your home is priced right and marketed well, the first few days tend to attract the strongest interest — and the best potential buyers.

 

 

 

Before you make a decision, take a close look at the offer itself. Beyond price, consider factors like deposit amount, financing terms, closing date, and conditions. A strong first offer might check every box — or open the door to a smart counter. The key is to discuss the details with your agent, who can help you assess its true strength before reacting on instinct.

 

 

Bottom line: the first offer isn’t always the final one, but it often deserves more attention than hesitation.

 

The ROI of Bathroom Updates 
(Even Small Ones)

If you’re prepping your home for sale, don’t overlook the bathroom — it’s one of the smallest spaces with some of the biggest return potential. The good news? You don’t need a full renovation to make a strong impression.

 

Simple Updates, Big Impact: A few budget-friendly swaps can instantly elevate the space: replace an outdated vanity, hang a modern mirror, update lighting, or swap hardware for something sleek and cohesive. Even regrouting tile or brightening the walls can make the room feel newer and more cared-for — a detail buyers notice right away.

 

Clean and Bright Wins Every Time: Buyers tend to value a bathroom that feels clean, fresh, and well-maintained more than one loaded with luxury finishes. Bright lighting, spotless surfaces, and clutter-free counters give a sense of space and serenity — exactly what buyers want to see when imagining their daily routines.

 

Add Just One Standout Feature: If you want to take it a step further, choose one focal point: a framed mirror, stylish wall sconces, or a small section of updated tile. A single accent can make the room look intentional and modern without overspending.

 

Even minor bathroom updates can deliver solid ROI, especially in competitive Ontario markets like Waterloo — where simple, well-executed improvements can set your listing apart.

 

Interest rates are one of the biggest forces shaping the real estate market — but the relationship isn’t as simple as “rates go up, prices go down.” Understanding how it all connects can help both buyers and sellers make smarter moves.

 

 

 

When rates rise, borrowing becomes more expensive. Buyers can afford less home for the same monthly payment, which can slow demand and price growth. When rates drop, mortgages become more affordable, demand often increases, and prices may rise as more buyers enter the market.

 

 

 

In Kitchener–Waterloo, strong employment and steady population growth continue to support housing demand. Even as rates fluctuate, the region’s diverse economy and quality of life attract new residents, helping maintain a balanced market.

 

 

 

Higher rates don’t mean you’re out of options. Getting pre-approved helps you understand exactly what you can afford, and many lenders offer rate holds that secure your rate for a set period while you search for a home. This can provide peace of mind and flexibility if rates change during your home search.

 

Interest rates influence the overall market, but local conditions — like employment trends, population growth, and housing supply — also play a major role. Staying informed and working with an experienced agent can help you make the most of the market, whatever direction rates take.