September is normally when Toronto’s real estate market wakes back up after the slower summer months. This year, however, buyers weren’t exactly rushing back.
According to TRREB’s September Market Watch, GTA home sales landed at 5,040, almost identical to August. Sellers, on the other hand, came back in force. New listings jumped by more than a third in a single month.
The result? More choice, softer prices in some segments and buyers who are perfectly happy to take their time. Let’s take a look at what the numbers tell us.
The Big Picture: Sales Steady, Supply Surges
Toronto Realtors reported 5,040 sales in September 2026. That’s down 9% compared to last year and essentially flat from August’s 5,057. In a month that usually brings a fall bounce, flat feels a little underwhelming.
Supply tells a very different story. New listings climbed to 16,500, up 36.7% month-over-month. Active listings rose 6.7% to 26,131. Interestingly, both are still well below last year’s levels, with new listings down 14.4% and active listings down 11.1% year-over-year.
On the pricing side, the average selling price came in at $1,006,409. That’s down 5.1% from last September but up 1.3% from August. Homes took an average of 51 days to sell, unchanged from the month before.
So what does this mean? Sellers are clearly testing the fall market, while buyers are taking a wait-and-see approach. For a closer look at how we got here, check out our August market recap.
Data as of TRREB’s September 2026 Market Watch, released October 2026.
By the Numbers: How Each Home Type Performed
Here’s how September shook out across the City of Toronto (416) by home type.
Home type
Sales
Sales vs. Aug
Avg. price
Price vs. Aug
Price vs. Sept 2025
Detached
640
+16.4%
$1,562,966
+2.4%
-7.3%
Semi-detached
211
+32.7%
$1,207,884
+8.8%
+2.2%
Townhouse
189
+14.5%
$922,445
+15.6%
-0.8%
Condo apartment
884
-0.1%
$640,248
-1.8%
-6.0%
Condos: A Buyer’s Playground
Condos were the only home type that didn’t get a September lift. Sales held at 884, down 6% from last year, and the average price slipped to $640,248.
That lines up with what we’re seeing on the ground. The condo buyers we’re working with have plenty of options, and many are being selective before making a choice. With so much to choose from, there’s little pressure to rush. If you’ve been eyeing a condo, that’s a promising position to negotiate from.
Semis: The Quiet Overachiever
Semi-detached homes had the strongest month of any home type. Sales jumped 32.7% from August, and the average price rose 8.8% to $1,207,884. Semis were also the only home type to post a year-over-year price gain (+2.2%). For buyers who want freehold living without detached prices, they continue to hit a sweet spot.
Detached and Townhouses: A September Rebound
Detached sales rose 16.4% from August to 640. That said, the average price of $1,562,966 is still 7.3% below last September. Townhouses bounced back too, with prices up 15.6% after a soft August. Thinking about freehold? Browse our neighbourhood guides to see where your budget goes furthest.
What’s Keeping Buyers on the Sidelines?
If prices are softer and there’s more to choose from, why aren’t buyers jumping in? TRREB pointed to uncertainty around the economy, inflation and borrowing costs. Let’s unpack that.
Rates on Hold, but Fixed Rates Creeping Up
The Bank of Canada held its policy rate at 2.25% on September 2, its seventh straight hold. Stability sounds reassuring, but there’s a catch. Long-term bond yields have been rising, which is already nudging fixed mortgage rates higher. Some analysts now think a rate hike could be back on the table before year-end. The next decision lands on October 28, and plenty of would-be buyers appear to be waiting for it.
Inflation and Tariff Jitters
Canada’s inflation rate held at 3.0% in August, the same as July. That sounds high, but much of it comes from elevated gas prices. Core inflation, which strips out the volatile stuff, is sitting around 2%. Add in ongoing trade uncertainty with the U.S., and it’s easy to see why some households want more clarity on their job security before taking on a mortgage.
The Ballot Box Factor: Election Day and Your Closing Costs
Ontario heads to the polls for municipal elections on October 26, and housing is one of the biggest issues on voters’ minds.
One issue worth watching is Toronto’s Municipal Land Transfer Tax (MLTT). Right now, buyers of an average-priced Toronto home who aren’t first-timers pay roughly $36,000 in combined municipal and provincial land transfer taxes. That’s cash due on closing, and it can’t be rolled into your mortgage. You can check current rates and rebates on the City of Toronto’s land transfer tax page.
Mayoral candidate Brad Bradford has pledged to waive the MLTT on the first $1.1 million of a home purchase if elected. Mayor Olivia Chow has warned that cutting the tax would lead to service cuts. Whichever way the vote goes, it could change the math for buyers in the years ahead. Will some buyers hold off until after election day to see how it plays out?
What This Means for You
September didn’t bring the usual fall rush, but it did bring something buyers haven’t had much of in recent years: leverage.
If you’re buying, this is one of the best selection windows we’ve seen in months. Condo buyers in particular can afford to be choosy, and prices remain below last year’s levels. Take your time, but be ready to act when the right place comes along.
If you’re selling, pricing and presentation matter more than ever. With more listings competing for the same pool of selective buyers, the homes that stand out are the ones priced right from day one.
So what’s next? Between the October 28 rate decision and the October 26 election, the next few weeks could bring the clarity many buyers have been waiting for. Will that finally coax them off the sidelines? We’ll be watching closely. In the meantime, if you’d like to talk through your options, get in touch with our team by sending us a message below!
After years of looking at floor plans, renderings and construction updates, the day finally comes: your pre-construction condo actually exists. Before you start measuring for furniture or planning move-in day, there’s one important step left… the Pre-Delivery Inspection, better known as the PDI.
Your PDI is your opportunity to walk through your new condo with the builder or their representative before occupancy, inspect the finished product and document anything that’s damaged, incomplete, missing or simply not working properly. And while it’s exciting to finally see the condo you bought, this isn’t the time to rush. You want to slow things down, look closely and make sure the home you’re about to receive is properly documented.
Here’s how I recommend preparing for your Toronto condo PDI, and what you should be looking for once you’re inside.
What Is a Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)?
A Pre-Delivery Inspection is a walkthrough of your new home that happens before you take occupancy. According to Tarion’s Pre-Delivery Inspection guidelines, the PDI is used to identify items that are damaged, incomplete, missing, inaccessible or not operating properly. It also gives the builder an opportunity to show you how the different systems in your new home work.
I like to think of the PDI as creating a snapshot of your condo before you move in. If there’s a scratch across your new flooring, for example, you want it documented before the movers arrive and not three weeks later when there could be a question about when or how it happened.
During the inspection, deficiencies are recorded on the PDI Form. Once everything has been documented, you or your designate will review and sign it and receive a copy for your records. There is one important distinction to understand from the beginning, though: your PDI Form is not the same thing as a warranty claim. We’ll get into why that matters a little later.
How to Prepare for Your Condo PDI
You don’t need to show up with a toolbox, but a little preparation can make your PDI much more productive. I’d bring your Agreement of Purchase and Sale, floor plan, colour and finish selections, upgrade sheets and any other documentation showing what you purchased from the builder.
Remember, you’re not only looking for scratches and dents. You’re also confirming that the condo in front of you is what you actually bought. If you paid for upgraded flooring, a particular countertop, different cabinetry or an upgraded appliance package, compare what’s been installed with your paperwork. Something can be installed perfectly and still be the wrong thing.
Your phone is probably one of the most useful tools you can bring to a PDI. Take photos as you go, especially when you find something damaged or incomplete. For anything significant, I like taking one wider photo that establishes where the deficiency is located and then a closer photo that clearly shows the problem.
Tarion also recommends photographing damaged or incomplete items because those photos may become useful documentation later. My approach is pretty simple: see it, mark it, photograph it and document it.
And Bring Green Painter’s Tape
This is one of my favourite PDI tips, and it’s incredibly simple: bring a roll of bright green painter’s tape.
Whenever you notice a scratch, chip, dent, paint issue or another visible deficiency, put a small piece of tape beside it. The bright colour makes the issue easy for the builder to identify, but it also helps you find it again when you’re reviewing the condo later. By the end of some PDIs, there can be quite a bit of green tape around the unit, and that’s okay. That’s exactly why you’re there.
Your Toronto Condo PDI Checklist
Once the inspection starts, I recommend working systematically through the condo rather than wandering from room to room looking for problems. Start with the big picture and then work your way through each space, checking the finishes, fixtures and systems as you go.
Start With the Big Picture
Before getting caught up in small cosmetic details, take a minute to look at the condo as a whole. Does the layout match what you purchased? Are the rooms and major features where they’re supposed to be? Do the finishes generally match your selections? Are your upgrades installed?
If something immediately looks different from what you expected, now is the time to pull out your paperwork and ask about it. Don’t assume a substitution was permitted simply because it’s already been installed.
Check the Floors, Walls and Ceilings
Take your time looking over the flooring, walls, ceilings, baseboards and trim throughout the condo. You’re looking for things like scratched flooring, chipped tiles, poor transitions, damaged baseboards, drywall imperfections, paint issues, cracks or other visible damage.
It’s worth looking at surfaces from a few different angles, especially when there’s good natural light coming through the windows. Some scratches, dents and paint imperfections can be surprisingly difficult to see when you’re standing directly in front of them. This is also where that roll of green painter’s tape really starts earning its keep.
Open Every Door, Window and Closet
A condo can look perfectly finished until you actually start interacting with it, so don’t be afraid to open things. Try the interior doors, closets, cabinetry and accessible windows. Make sure everything opens and closes smoothly, isn’t rubbing or sticking and doesn’t have obviously damaged or misaligned hardware.
The important thing here is not to treat the PDI as a visual inspection only. If something is designed to open, close, slide, turn or move, give it a try.
Inspect the Kitchen
The kitchen deserves some extra attention because there are so many individual components packed into one relatively small space. Open the cabinets and drawers, inspect the countertops and backsplash and compare the finishes against what you selected when you purchased the condo.
Turn on the faucet and let the water run for a bit, then take a look underneath the sink for any signs of leaking. Check the caulking, plumbing, outlets and appliances while you’re there. You should also confirm that the appliances you’re supposed to receive are present and don’t have any obvious damage.
It’s worth noting that appliances themselves aren’t necessarily covered by the builder’s statutory new-home warranty in the same way construction defects are, so ask the builder how appliance deficiencies and manufacturer warranties are handled.
Give the Bathrooms Extra Attention
Bathrooms are another area where you want to do more than simply look around. Run the faucets, flush the toilets and make sure the water drains properly. Look underneath the vanity for leaks and inspect the tile, grout, mirrors, fixtures and caulking.
And then there’s one test I always like to do—one that occasionally gets me a funny look.
Yes, I Actually Stand in the Bathtub
If there’s a bathtub, I’ll take my shoes off, step inside and carefully walk back and forth or shift my weight around. I’m checking to see whether the tub feels stable and properly supported.
It’s a perfect example of something you might never notice just by looking at it. The bathtub could look completely normal from the outside, but once you step inside, you may notice movement or something that simply doesn’t feel right. That’s why I like actually using things during a PDI rather than only inspecting them visually.
Test the Electrical and Learn How the Condo Works
As you move through the condo, turn the lights on and off and test the switches and accessible outlets where practical. You should also know where your electrical panel is located and ask about anything you don’t understand.
The same goes for your heating and cooling system. Don’t leave the PDI knowing where the thermostat is but having no idea what it actually controls. Ask the builder representative to explain the system, including the thermostat, fan coil or heat pump where applicable, exhaust fans and any equipment you’re responsible for maintaining.
This is also a good opportunity to ask about filters, shut-offs and regular maintenance. I’ve written a separate guide to condo and apartment heating systems if you want to better understand some of the different systems you’ll find in Toronto buildings.
Don’t Let Your PDI Feel Rushed
This might be my biggest piece of advice: slow down.
It’s easy to feel like you need to keep pace with the builder representative who’s taking you through the condo, especially when you’re excited to finally see the place. But you’re inspecting a brand-new home you’ve spent a considerable amount of money on, so take the time to actually inspect it.
Open the cabinets and closets. Run the water. Flush the toilets. Turn on the lights. Look underneath the sinks. Step back and look at the finishes. If something doesn’t make sense, ask about it. You’re not being difficult by taking your time—you’re doing exactly what the PDI is there for.
What Happens If You Find a Deficiency?
If you find something that needs attention, point it out to the builder representative and make sure it’s accurately recorded on the PDI Form. I’d also take a photo for your own records, particularly if the issue is something that could become harder to document after you move in.
Before signing the form, take a few minutes to review it and make sure the deficiencies you identified are actually included and described accurately. Keep your copy of the completed form together with your photos and other purchase documents.
Ideally, the builder will address those items before or shortly after you move in. However, don’t assume that having something written on your PDI Form means the warranty process will automatically take care of it from that point forward.
Your PDI Form Is Not Your Warranty Claim
This is probably the most important technical detail in this entire guide. Your PDI Form documents the condition of your condo before occupancy, but it does not itself represent a request for warranty service through Tarion.
If an item identified during your PDI hasn’t been resolved, you may need to include it on the appropriate warranty form to obtain Tarion’s assistance. As of October 2026, Tarion’s current process allows homeowners to begin adding items to their Initial Form one day after their warranty start date, with the form automatically submitted through MyHome on day 41.
Because warranty procedures and deadlines can change, I’d always check Tarion’s current warranty claim forms and timelines rather than relying on an older article when you’re actually preparing a submission.
The important takeaway is that documenting something at your PDI and submitting it through the warranty process are two different steps.
What About the Condo’s Common Areas?
Your individual condo PDI generally focuses on what’s within the boundaries of your unit. Common elements are different and have their own warranty process involving the condominium corporation.
Where things can get a little confusing is that something may feel like it’s part of your condo while legally being considered a common element. Depending on the condominium’s declaration, this can include things such as balconies, windows or even the suite entrance door.
If you notice an issue involving one of these areas, you can still document it and raise it with the appropriate parties. Understanding the distinction between the individual unit and the condominium corporation is also one of the reasons it’s important to understand what a condo status certificate is and why it’s important when purchasing a resale condo.
What Happens After the PDI?
Once the PDI is finished, keep an eye on the deficiencies you documented and confirm whether they’ve been corrected. You may also discover things after moving in that weren’t obvious during the inspection. That’s not unusual—you can learn a lot more about a home after actually living in it.
Most importantly, keep good records. Photos, emails, forms and dates aren’t particularly exciting…until you need them.
My Advice After Attending Condo PDIs
The small cosmetic deficiencies are often the easiest things to find. It’s the things you have to actually interact with that are easier to miss, which is why I don’t like treating a PDI as simply a visual walkthrough.
Open the cabinets and closets. Run the faucets. Flush the toilets. Slide the doors. Turn on the lights. Step into the bathtub. Ask how the thermostat works. And when you find something that isn’t right, mark it with that green painter’s tape, photograph it and make sure it’s documented.
A good PDI isn’t about trying to find as many problems as possible. It’s about taking the time to understand the home you’re about to receive and making sure its condition is properly recorded before you move in.
Toronto Condo PDI FAQs
How long does a condo PDI take?
There isn’t one universal length because condos vary in size and builders may schedule their inspections differently. Give yourself enough time that you won’t feel pressured to rush through the unit. A smaller condo may have fewer rooms, but there are still plenty of finishes, fixtures and systems worth checking.
Can I bring my Realtor to my PDI?
Tarion says you can have someone accompany you during your PDI. If you can’t attend yourself, you can also appoint a designate to conduct the PDI on your behalf, although the appropriate authorization should be provided to the builder.
Can I bring a home inspector to my condo PDI?
Tarion doesn’t restrict whom you can choose as your designate, but you’ll want to confirm the builder’s procedures for additional attendees ahead of your appointment. If you’re considering professional assistance, arrange it before PDI day rather than assuming you’ll be able to add someone at the last minute.
What happens if I find damage during my PDI?
Point it out to the builder representative, make sure it’s properly recorded on the PDI Form and take photographs for your own records. The goal is to create a clear record showing that the damage or deficiency existed before you took occupancy.
What happens if the builder doesn’t fix something from my PDI?
If an unresolved item may be covered by Ontario’s statutory new-home warranty, it should be reported through the applicable warranty claim process. Don’t assume the PDI Form itself is a warranty claim.
Is the PDI Form the same as a Tarion warranty claim?
No. The PDI Form creates a record of the home’s condition before occupancy. Tarion’s warranty claim process is separate, so unresolved items may need to be submitted through the appropriate warranty form.
Should I take pictures during my PDI?
Yes. Tarion specifically recommends photographing damaged or incomplete items. Photos can provide useful evidence of what the condo looked like before you moved in.
What should I bring to a condo PDI?
At minimum, I’d bring your purchase documents and selections, a charged phone and a roll of green painter’s tape. Having your paperwork with you makes it much easier to compare the finished condo with what you actually purchased.
Can I report a problem after my PDI?
Yes. Missing something during the PDI doesn’t necessarily eliminate your warranty coverage. However, documenting visible damage or missing items during the PDI can make it much easier to establish that the problem existed before you took occupancy.
Does my condo PDI include my balcony?
Not necessarily. Tarion notes that condo PDIs focus on items within the boundaries of the individual unit. Balconies, windows and entrance doors are examples of items that may be common elements, depending on the condominium’s governing documents.
Final Thoughts: Your PDI Isn’t Just a Walkthrough
For many pre-construction buyers, the PDI is the first time the condo stops being a floor plan and starts feeling like home. Enjoy that moment—but don’t let the excitement distract you from why you’re there.
Take your time, test things, ask questions and document what you find. Bring your paperwork, charge your phone and, yes, bring the green painter’s tape.
You waited long enough for your condo to be built. Spending a little extra time making sure everything is properly documented before you get the keys is time well spent.
For many pre-construction buyers, the PDI is the first time the condo stops being a floor plan and starts feeling like home. Enjoy that moment—but don’t let the excitement distract you from why you’re there.
Take your time, test things, ask questions and document what you find. Bring your paperwork, charge your phone and, yes, bring the green painter’s tape.
This becomes even more important when purchasing a penthouse or luxury condo, where custom layouts, upgraded finishes and additional features can mean there’s simply more to inspect. I specialize in Toronto penthouses and have helped buyers navigate everything from the initial condo search through to the final stages before getting the keys.
If you spent August at the cottage instead of open houses, you weren’t alone. Sales across the GTA slipped from July, new listings fell even faster, and the market did what it does every August: it slowed down and waited for September.
The good news? Prices are starting to look steadier than they have all year. Let’s take a look at what happened in August and what it could mean for the months ahead.
All GTA figures come from TRREB’s August 2026 Market Watch, released September 3, 2026, unless otherwise noted.
Active listings: 24,482, down 11.3% year-over-year
Average price: $993,410, down 2.7% year-over-year
MLS® HPI Composite benchmark: down 4.5% year-over-year
Average days on market: 51, up from 45 in July
The short version? Buyers had fewer homes to choose from, and prices are slipping less than they were earlier in the year.
Why August Always Feels a Little Like January
August is traditionally one of the quieter months in Toronto real estate, and this year was no exception. Families are squeezing in the last cottage weekend, parents are shopping for backpacks, and house hunting tends to take a back seat until routines return in September.
Interestingly, August’s slowdown looks a lot like what we see every January. Sales fell 15.7% from July, almost a mirror image of January’s 16.6% dip from December. New listings dropped 16.6% month-over-month, and average days on market climbed to 51, the highest level since February.
That said, August still posted far more sales than January (5,057 versus 3,082). So think of it as the same seasonal pause, not the same market. For a refresher on how the year started, see our January 2026 market update
Fewer Listings, Firmer Footing
The biggest story in August wasn’t sales. It was supply. New listings fell 14.1% compared to last year, far faster than the 2.1% dip in sales. According to TRREB, buyers in some neighbourhoods simply had less to choose from, which likely held back the number of deals.
Here’s the silver lining for anyone watching prices. The 2.7% year-over-year drop in the average price was the smallest annual decline we’ve seen in 2026. Back in February, prices were running nearly 7% below the year before. On a seasonally adjusted basis, the average selling price even edged up from July.
TRREB President Daniel Steinfeld summed up the dilemma nicely: if inventory keeps tightening, “some buyers may face a trade-off between waiting for greater economic certainty and purchasing before prices move higher.”
So, is this the start of renewed price growth? It’s too early to call. But it’s definitely a trend to watch this fall.
Breaking Down the 416 by Property Type
Now let’s zoom in on the City of Toronto (416). Keep in mind these numbers cover the city only, not the wider GTA.
Detached
The average detached home sold for $1,525,749, essentially flat compared to last August (up 0.1%). Sales also rose 2.6% year-over-year. It’s not flashy, but it’s a quiet sign of stability at the top end of the market.
Semi-Detached
Semis averaged $1,110,639, down 1.8% from last year, while sales ticked up 1.3%. After a softer July, prices appear to be finding their footing.
Townhouse
Townhouses were August’s biggest mover. The average price fell to $797,856, down 12.9% year-over-year and 8% from July. Sales slipped 11.3% compared to last year. For buyers who’ve been eyeing a townhome, this could be one of the more promising windows we’ve seen in a while.
Condo Apartment
Condos averaged $651,648, down 2.4% from last year, with sales essentially flat (down 0.6%). That’s a notable improvement from earlier in the year, when condo prices were running 8% to 9% below 2025 levels. Browse Toronto condos for sale {{LINK_NEEDED}} to see what’s on the market now.
Toronto Real Estate Market Update
The Bigger Picture: Rates, Jobs and Trade
TRREB’s Chief Information Officer Jason Mercer noted that ownership housing has stayed relatively affordable over the past year. The main thing holding buyers back? Worries about trade with the U.S. and what it could mean for inflation and borrowing costs. Here’s what was happening on each front.
Rates Stay Put
On September 2, the Bank of Canada held its policy rate at 2.25% for the seventh straight time. The rate hasn’t moved since October 2025, which has kept mortgage costs fairly predictable. However, the Bank did flag that tariffs have increased the risk of higher inflation, so it’s a space worth watching.
A Hot Hiring Streak Takes a Breather
Canada added roughly 181,000 jobs from April through July. Then August’s Labour Force Survey showed a loss of 42,000 jobs, with the national unemployment rate holding at 6.4%. One soft month doesn’t undo a strong summer, but it’s a reminder that the economy isn’t moving in a straight line.
The Trade Wildcard
On August 21, Prime Minister Mark Carney suspended trade negotiations with the U.S. after talks broke down. The U.S. then imposed 50% tariffs on about $20 billion of Canadian goods, and Canada’s matching tariffs were set to begin September 8. Since this all unfolded in the final days of the month, it likely had little effect on August sales. Will it make buyers more cautious this fall? That’s the big question.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers: Prices are still below last year’s levels, and mortgage rates have been steady for nearly a year. However, choice is shrinking. If listings keep tightening, today’s softer prices may not stick around. If you’re getting ready to make a move, we can help!
For sellers: Fewer competing listings means your home has a better chance to stand out, especially heading into the typically busier fall market. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment, now’s a smart time to talk strategy for selling your home.
What’s Next?
With vacations over and kids back in school, September usually brings buyers and sellers back to the table. Add in the Bank of Canada’s next rate announcement on October 28 and an evolving trade story, and this fall could be one of the more interesting seasons we’ve seen in a while.
Will tighter supply finally push prices higher? Or will economic uncertainty keep buyers on the sidelines a little longer? We’ll be watching closely. In the meantime, if you have questions about your next move, get in touch with our team.
Spring has brought some welcome momentum back to the Toronto Real Estate market, and after a slow start to the year, I’m seeing that show up clearly in the May numbers. Sales are accelerating, inventory is tightening relative to demand, and prices look like they’re starting to find a floor. Here’s my read on what happened this month and what it could mean if you’re thinking about buying or selling this summer.
The Headline Numbers
6,583 homes sold across the GTA in May — up 6.3% from the 6,195 we saw in May 2025. New listings, meanwhile, fell to 17,698, down 18.9% year-over-year. More buyers, fewer new options: that combination is really the whole story of this spring.
It’s also month three of a trend. Sales rose year-over-year in March, April, and May, after dipping in January and February.
Month
Sales
New Listings
Active Listings
Avg. Price
January
3,082
10,774
17,975
$973,289
February
3,868
10,705
19,314
$1,008,968
March
5,039
14,442
21,596
$1,017,796
April
5,946
17,097
25,110
$1,051,969
May
6,583
17,698
26,927
$1,069,700
Seasonally adjusted, sales were up 10% over April, while new listings dipped 2.1%!
Prices: Down Year-Over-Year, But Leveling Off
The average selling price hit $1,069,700 in May which was 4.6% below last year. The broader MLS HPI Composite benchmark, which smooths out the mix of what’s actually selling, was down a steeper 6.7% year-over-year.
Here’s the more interesting part, though: on a seasonally adjusted basis, prices actually ticked up slightly month-over-month, and the pace of the year-over-year decline has been easing for a while now. If sales keep strengthening the way they have been, it could indicate we’re closer to a floor than a further slide.
Zooming into the 416 specifically, detached homes led the charge:
Home Type
Sales (416, May 2026)
Avg. Price (416, May 2026)
YoY Sales
YoY Price
Detached
846
$1,610,988
+8.9%
-6.5%
Semi-Detached
283
$1,293,268
+2.5%
+0.6%
Townhouse
222
$953,982
-17.5%
-5.5%
Condo Apartment
1,009
$673,841
+4.2%
-5.0%
Detached and semi-detached sales grew nicely, while townhouses pulled back… but keep in mind, this is a smaller, more volatile segment where a handful of deals can swing the percentage. Condos, the city’s most crowded category, kept selling in decent volume even as prices softened. Not exactly a comeback tour for condo pricing, but the sales activity suggests demand may be coming back (but slooooowly)
Buyers Still Have Room to Negotiate — For Now
Average days on market landed at 42 in May, down from a January high of 67. That said, homes are still taking a few days longer to sell than they did in May 2025 — which tells me buyers heading into early summer still hold some leverage. Whether that window stays open through July and August is the real question to watch.
Year-to-Date Snapshot
Through the first five months of 2026, GTA sales sit at 24,405 — essentially flat against 24,653 over the same stretch last year. New listings are the bigger story: down to 70,768 from 83,441. Fewer new homes hitting the market, roughly steady demand, that’s the recipe behind the tightening we’ve been tracking all spring.
My Take
I think May reflects real, if fragile, improvement. Buyers came back, listings didn’t keep pace, and prices are behaving like a market finding its footing rather than one still falling. Ontario’s Bill 98 received Royal Assent in early June, aiming to speed up housing approvals and lower development costs province-wide — a trend to watch for anyone thinking about the next few years of supply, not just this summer’s showings.
Will the second half of the year keep this pace up? That depends a lot on interest rates, oil prices, and whether the “affordability improving” story can hold up if borrowing costs tick the wrong way. For now, though, the numbers are a promising sign after a rough start to the year.
Every winter, condo owners across Toronto notice the same thing: moisture forming on the inside of their windows. Sometimes it’s a light film. Other times it’s beads of water collecting along the frame or pooling at the corners.
The immediate reaction is often concern — are the windows failing, is there a building issue, or is something wrong with the unit? In reality, winter window condensation is one of the most common cold-weather conditions in condos, and in many cases, it’s a predictable result of how modern buildings, windows, and indoor air behave during colder months.
Understanding what’s normal, what isn’t, and what you can control goes a long way in preventing damage and unnecessary stress.
What Causes Condensation on Condo Windows in Winter
Condensation occurs when warm, moisture-filled indoor air comes into contact with a cold surface. In winter, your window glass and frames are often the coldest surfaces in your unit. When humid air hits that cold surface, moisture drops out of the air and turns into water.
Condo buildings tend to amplify this effect for a few reasons:
Large expanses of glass are common in modern designs
Aluminum window frames conduct cold more readily than other materials
Condos are built to be relatively airtight, which limits natural moisture escape
The colder it gets outside, the colder the interior surface of the window becomes — increasing the likelihood of condensation forming.
Is Condensation on Condo Windows Normal?
In short: yes, some condensation in winter is normal.
Seeing moisture on windows during cold snaps does not automatically mean your windows are defective or that there’s a construction issue. In fact, newer and more energy-efficient buildings can experience condensation more frequently because they trap warm, humid air more effectively than older, draftier structures.
That said, there’s an important distinction between occasional condensation that clears and persistent moisture that lingers or worsens.
Why Some Condo Units Experience It More Than Others
Not all condo units experience condensation the same way. Several factors influence how much moisture shows up on windows:
Window orientation: North-facing units tend to have colder glass due to limited sun exposure
Floor level: Lower floors can be more sensitive to ventilation disruptions
Window type: Sliding windows often show condensation along tracks and frames
Air circulation: Units with restricted airflow see moisture accumulate faster
This is why it’s common to hear multiple owners in the same stack or orientation report similar issues.
Window Condensation
The Role of Humidity — What Condo Owners Often Miss
Relative humidity is the single biggest driver of condensation in winter.
Many condo owners aim for a “comfortable” humidity level year-round, not realizing that acceptable indoor humidity must drop as outdoor temperatures fall. What feels comfortable at 0°C outside may be far too high during a -15°C cold snap.
As a general guideline, indoor humidity targets should drop as outdoor temperatures fall:
Outdoor Temperature
Recommended Indoor Humidity Range
Around 0°C
35–45%
Around -10°C
30–40%
Around -20°C
15–30%
These ranges reflect typical condo window performance in winter and help reduce the risk of condensation forming on glass and frames.
Everyday Activities That Quietly Increase Condensation
Many of the biggest contributors to winter condensation are everyday activities that don’t feel excessive on their own. Long hot showers, frequent cooking, running laundry, or using a dryer all add moisture to the air. Humidifiers set a little too high and multiple houseplants — especially when placed near windows — can further increase localized humidity.
Even layout choices matter. Furniture, blinds, or curtains positioned tight to glass restrict warm air from circulating across window surfaces, allowing the glass to stay colder and encouraging moisture to form. Over time, these small contributors can combine to push indoor humidity past safe winter levels.
Ventilation Matters More Than Most Owners Realize
Ventilation plays a critical role in managing moisture.
Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans aren’t just for odours — they remove humidity. In winter, fans often need to run much longer than expected. It can take hours after a shower for moisture levels to return to baseline.
Make-up air supplied through corridors also matters. That dry winter air helps flush moisture from your suite. Sealing suite doors or blocking airflow can unintentionally trap humidity inside.
When Condensation Becomes a Real Problem
Condensation deserves closer attention when it becomes persistent or starts causing secondary issues. Moisture that continues even after humidity has been reduced, regular pooling or dripping water, staining on frames or drywall, or recurring mold growth are all signs that something more than seasonal condensation may be happening.
Issues that worsen during ventilation outages or appear to affect finishes, window assemblies, or neighbouring units often point to air-balance or ventilation concerns rather than simple lifestyle-related moisture.
Practical Steps Condo Owners Can Take Right Now
The most effective approach is consistent, measured adjustment rather than drastic changes. Monitoring indoor humidity with a reliable hygrometer allows owners to respond as outdoor temperatures fluctuate. Using bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans during — and well after — moisture-producing activities helps remove humidity before it can settle on cold surfaces.
Keeping windows unobstructed, avoiding plants or furniture tight to glass, and opening blinds during the day allows warm air to circulate and encourages evaporation. When condensation does appear, wiping it away promptly helps prevent staining, deterioration, and mold growth.
When to Involve Property Management
Property management should be involved when condensation persists despite reasonable humidity control or begins to show patterns beyond a single unit. Issues that appear across multiple floors, stacks, or during known ventilation disruptions suggest a building-level concern rather than an isolated lifestyle issue.
Providing clear documentation — including timing, outdoor temperatures, humidity readings, and photos — helps management and HVAC professionals determine whether ventilation, air balance, or system performance requires attention.
What Condo Owners Should Take Away
Winter window condensation is common in Toronto condos, especially during prolonged cold weather. In most cases, it comes down to managing the balance between indoor humidity, temperature, and ventilation — not failing windows or poor construction.
Knowing what’s normal, adjusting habits as temperatures change, and acting early when moisture becomes persistent can help protect your unit, finishes, and long-term value.
If you’re actively thinking about buying, selling, or upgrading within the condo market, it’s also worth understanding how building performance, ventilation, and maintenance can differ from one property to the next.
Looking for your next place? Explore a few of the neighbourhoods we specialize in and see what’s available across Toronto — and if you have questions about how a building actually lives day-to-day, we’re always happy to talk it through.
A pied-à-terre is a small, secondary residence used on a part‑time basis rather than as a primary home. The term comes from France (literally meaning “foot on the ground”), and in Toronto real estate it almost always refers to a downtown condo owned by someone who lives elsewhere most of the time.
Think of it as a city base — a place to stay during the workweek, for cultural events, or for regular visits — without the commitment of full‑time urban living. In practice, Toronto pied‑à‑terres are typically studios or one‑bedroom condos in walkable, transit‑rich neighbourhoods with strong building management and concierge services.
Importantly, a pied‑à‑terre isn’t bought purely as an investment. It’s a lifestyle‑driven purchase first, with flexibility and long‑term value playing supporting roles.
Why Pied-à-Terres Fell Out of Favour — And Why They’re Back
During the height of COVID, Toronto experienced a very real shift. Remote work untethered many professionals from daily commutes, and a noticeable number of residents left the city for larger homes, quieter streets, or more space further afield. Downtown condos — the traditional home of the pied‑à‑terre — suddenly felt less essential.
Fast‑forward to today, and the story has shifted once again — quietly, but meaningfully.
1001 Roselawn Ave
Hybrid work is now the norm rather than the exception. Offices are busier mid‑week. Cultural life has fully returned. And many people who left Toronto didn’t lose their connection to the city — they just changed how they use it.
Instead of moving back full‑time, a growing number of buyers are opting for part‑time ownership. A pied‑à‑terre offers a practical middle ground: maintain a primary home outside the core while still having a reliable, comfortable place downtown.
Strong resale and rental demand — flexibility if plans change
Not every condo checks these boxes, even if the price looks right on paper.
How we help: We help buyers avoid buildings that look good online but don’t function well for part‑time living — from inefficient layouts to management issues that only show up after you own.
Where Buyers Focus: Toronto’s Most Popular Pied-à-Terre Neighbourhoods
While pied‑à‑terres can exist across the city, demand consistently clusters in a few key downtown areas.
Yorkville
Yorkville remains a top choice for buyers who value prestige, walkability, and transit access. Luxury buildings, strong concierge services, and proximity to Bloor Street make it especially appealing for executives and international owners.
King West & King East
For buyers who want to be close to tech, finance, dining, and nightlife, King West and King East continue to dominate. These neighbourhoods work particularly well for mid‑week living and short, frequent stays.
Financial District
This is the classic pied‑à‑terre market. Smaller, efficient condos used primarily during the workweek, with unmatched access to offices, transit, and PATH connections.
Entertainment District
Events, culture, restaurants, and transit converge here. Buyers drawn to sports, theatre, and downtown energy often gravitate to this pocket.
Yonge & Bloor
As a major transit hub with consistent resale demand, Yonge & Bloor offers flexibility. It’s especially popular with buyers who want easy access to multiple parts of the city.
Neighbourhood guidance:Choosing the right neighbourhood matters even more when you’re only here part‑time. We help match how you’ll use the city with where you’ll enjoy it most.
Below are some our favourite luxury buildings in the city, that often attract those looking for a pied-a-terre
Are Pied-à-Terres a Good Investment?
A pied‑à‑terre shouldn’t be viewed as a traditional income property. While some owners choose to rent their units long‑term, the real value lies in flexibility.
You’re buying:
A guaranteed place to stay
Freedom from hotels or short‑term rentals
A hedge against rising accommodation costs
Optional future rental or resale upside
With condo pricing more balanced than it was a few years ago, many buyers feel the risk‑reward equation has improved — especially if they already plan to use the unit regularly.
CTA — Honest advice: We’ll tell you when buying makes sense — and when renting or staying flexible is the smarter move. Not every situation calls for ownership.
A Smart Alternative: Medium‑Term Rentals
For some buyers, owning a pied‑à‑terre is the end goal. For others, it’s a step they’re not quite ready to take — and that’s where medium‑term rentals come in.
Medium‑term rentals (typically 1–6 months) have quietly become a strong alternative for people who:
Need a downtown base a few days a week
Are testing neighbourhoods before buying
Want flexibility without committing capital
Are returning to Toronto gradually post‑COVID
Unlike short‑term rentals, medium‑term options feel more like real homes. And unlike hotels, they offer consistency, privacy, and comfort — without long‑term ownership risk.
How this ties in: Many clients use a medium‑term rental as a bridge — re‑establishing a downtown routine first, then deciding whether a pied‑à‑terre makes sense longer term.
Final Thoughts: Toronto Isn’t an All‑or‑Nothing City Anymore
For many buyers, the pied‑à‑terre reflects how life actually works now — flexible schedules, hybrid work, and a desire to stay connected without over‑committing. As prices recalibrate and the city continues to hum back to life, part‑time ownership is becoming a very intentional choice.
How we can help: If you’re considering a pied‑à‑terre in Toronto, we can help you evaluate buildings, neighbourhoods, and options that actually suit part‑time living — and avoid the ones that don’t.
Whether you’re returning to the city or redefining how you use it, the goal is the same: buy smart, buy intentionally, and enjoy the flexibility that comes with it – send us a message below to get started today!
According to the calendar, we’re officially in “hot chocolate and thicker jackets” season… and according to November’s numbers, the Toronto real estate market has also settled into full fall mode.
November wasn’t dramatic or chaotic. Instead, it felt like a market catching its breath—slower pace, fewer listings, and more thoughtful buyers. But tucked inside the overall cool-down was a standout story: freehold homes between $1M and $1.5M were buzzing with real activity. Let’s break down what actually happened.
What Happened in the Toronto Market This November?
Sales Slipped—But It’s Not the Plot Twist You Might Expect
Toronto recorded 5,010 sales, an 18.38% drop from October. On the surface, that might look like a steep fall… but November is historically a slower month as buyers shift into “holiday mode” and sellers decide to wait out the year.
The interesting part? Even with fewer deals happening, conversations with buyers stayed lively. This wasn’t a demand problem—it was a “let’s be picky” moment.
New Listings Dropped Harder Than Sales
Only 11,134 new listings hit the market in November—a sharp 30.7% drop. That’s the real story of the month. Sellers stepped back in a big way, which meant that buyers who were actively shopping suddenly had fewer homes to choose from.
When new listings fall faster than sales, the market tightens. And that’s exactly why prices held steady.
Even Active Listings Declined More Than Usual
Active inventory fell to 24,549—nearly 12% lower month-over-month.
Buyers who remained committed in late fall described the experience as “I’m ready… but there’s nothing to see.” Anyone who has been through a November search knows the feeling.
Prices Held Steady (All Things Considered)
Average Price: $1,039,458 (Down just 1.4%)
You might expect a bigger price swing with slower sales, but Toronto homes proved resilient. Prices barely budged and stayed right in line with where they’ve been for most of the year.
Think of it as the market saying: “Relax, nothing dramatic happening here.”
Days on Market Hit Their Longest Stretch This Year
The ‘Days on Market” rose to 56 days, the slowest pace we’ve seen in 2025.
This doesn’t mean homes aren’t selling—it means buyers are taking their time, comparing options, and running the numbers twice. But again… this was not the case everywhere.
The Breakout Segment: Freehold Homes Between $1M and $1.5M
Here’s where things get fun.
Detached & Semis in This Range Moved Faster Than the Market
Despite the overall slowdown, this pocket of the market stayed lively. In the 416:
Detached homes saw 600 sales
Semis hit 209 sales
Not record-breaking, but the energy was noticeably stronger. Freeholds that were move-in ready, offered rental potential, or were located near transit didn’t sit long.
Why? Because this price band continues to hit that Toronto sweet spot: attainable for move-up buyers, attractive to investors, and competitive enough to avoid the bidding-war chaos of earlier years.
Condos and Townhouses: Softer Demand, Stable Pricing
Condos Took a Breath After October’s Spike
Condo sales dipped to 880 (a 17.9% decline). No surprise here—condo buyers tend to be more rate-sensitive, and many are waiting for early 2026 announcements before locking in.
Yet, the average condo price actually inched up to $701,259. That’s the stability story again.
Townhouses Were a Mixed Bag
Townhouses landed at an average price of $870,793, a modest 2.2% dip.
Still, they continue to appeal to buyers who want the space of a freehold but not the price tag of one. The townhouse segment is very much alive—it’s just quieting down with the rest of the market.
Big Picture Trends Shaping Toronto’s Market Right Now
Mortgage Rates Are Finally Helping
After the Bank of Canada’s gradual cuts, many 5-year fixed rates now sit in the mid-4% to low-5% range. Buyers aren’t sprinting back, but confidence is noticeably higher than in 2023–2024.
If you talk to anyone who started a pre-approval a year ago and renewed it recently, they’ll tell you the same thing: “This feels manageable again.”
Consumers Are More Hopeful—But Still Cautious
Renewals at higher rates are still holding some would-be sellers back, especially those locked into ultra-low pandemic mortgages.
But newcomers, families, and investors are fueling the activity we do see—especially where rental income or multi-unit potential exists.
Policy Shifts Are Playing a Quiet but Important Role
With Bill 60 improving LTB timelines and clarifying the N12 process, landlords and investors are planning ahead with more certainty.
Meanwhile, Toronto’s ongoing gentle-density permissions are quietly changing how buyers view freehold lots—especially those with laneway or basement suite potential.
What Buyers Should Take Away From November 2025
Where the Opportunities Are
Freeholds under $1.5M: competitive, but not overwhelming.
Condos: stable prices + motivated sellers = room to negotiate.
If confidence rises, expect buyers to move from browsing to buying.
Thinking of Buying or Selling?
Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or investing, November’s data tells us the same thing: this is still a market with opportunities—just not the loud, dramatic kind.
After a quieter summer and a cautious start to the fall market, October delivered the clearest sign yet that Toronto’s real estate landscape is stabilizing. Sales activity continued to improve, inventory eased from September’s surge, and prices held firm month-over-month. While the market is not roaring forward, October showed a meaningful shift in sentiment as buyers re-engaged and competition tightened slightly across several segments.
Below is a full breakdown of how the market performed and what it means for buyers and sellers heading into the final stretch of the year.
October at a Glance
Sales: Up 9.76% month-over-month
New Listings: Down 16.57% month-over-month
Active Listings: Down 5.40% month-over-month
Average GTA Price: Down 0.47% month-over-month
Average Days on Market: 50 days (down from 51 in September)
October 2025 Toronto Real Estate Market Update
GTA Market Overview
October delivered a second consecutive month of sales growth, rising nearly 10% from September. Buyers who had previously stepped to the sidelines over the summer began returning, encouraged by improved affordability expectations, increased negotiation power, and a sense that prices may have reached a temporary floor after months of softening.
Inventory also pulled back in October. New listings dropped more than 16% month-over-month, and active listings declined just over 5%. While supply remains higher than last year, the month-over-month easing helped bring the market closer to balance. With fewer new listings coming online, sellers benefited from slightly less competition than they faced in September.
Prices remained stable, dipping less than half a percent. Considering the broader downward pressure over the past year, October’s minimal price movement suggests values may be flattening as the market finds an equilibrium between what sellers are willing to accept and what buyers are prepared to pay.
Key Takeaway: October showed improving buyer engagement and tightening inventory – two key ingredients for price stabilization.
Key Market Drivers in October
Improved Buyer Confidence The fall market saw stronger engagement as buyers adjusted to borrowing costs and gained clarity around pricing. This confidence translated into increased sales activity across both freehold and condo segments.
Inventory Eased After a September Surge September’s spike in listings created temporary pressure on prices. With fewer new listings in October, buyers had less choice, helping restore some balance.
Price Stability Encouraged Move-Ups and First-Timers Stable pricing helped both move-up buyers and first-time purchasers make more confident decisions, especially in the condo and semi-detached segments.
GTA Market Performance: Month-Over-Month
Sales increased by 9.76% (+546 sales)
New listings declined by 16.57% (-3,191 listings)
Active listings dropped by 5.40% (-1,586 listings)
Average price decreased slightly by 0.47% (-$5,005)
Days on Market improved from 51 to 50 days
Key Takeaway: The combination of rising sales and falling listings is a positive directional shift for market balance.
GTA Market Performance: Year-Over-Year
Sales down 7.81% from October 2024
New listings up 4.83% from last year
Active listings up 13.59% from last year
Average price down 7.12% year-over-year (-$80,843)
Days on Market up 16.28% from last year (+7 days)
Key Takeaway: While the month-to-month narrative has improved, year-over-year comparisons continue to show a softer market with more choice and lower prices than last fall.
416 Market Breakdown by Property Type
Sales Activity (Month-Over-Month)
Detached: Up 10.67% (+72 sales)
Semi-Detached: Up 22.90% (+49 sales)
Townhouse: Up 13.64% (+30 sales)
Condo: Up 14.04% (+132 sales)
Sales growth was seen across all housing types, marking one of the broadest improvements this year. Semi-detached homes led the month, followed closely by the condo sector, which regained momentum after a slower summer.
Key Takeaway: Buyer interest strengthened across all segments, showing renewed confidence in the market.
Pricing Trends (Month-Over-Month)
Detached: Down 3.97% (-$66,966)
Semi-Detached: Up 3.18% (+$37,582)
Townhouse: Down 4.19% (-$38,919)
Condo: Up 2.66% (+$18,126)
Freehold properties saw mixed performance. Detached and townhouse values experienced modest declines, while semis posted the strongest price gains of the month. Condos also saw average prices rise, supported by an uptick in demand and more motivated fall buyers.
Key Takeaway: Semi-detached homes stood out as the strongest performer, while condos continue to offer value-driven opportunities for buyers.
October 2025 Toronto Real Estate Market Update
What This Means for Buyers
With inventory easing and sales strengthening, buyers considering a purchase in the next three to six months may want to take advantage of current conditions. Prices have shown signs of stabilizing, and as competition picks up, the negotiation leverage seen through the summer could begin to narrow.
Key Takeaway: Buyers still hold advantages, but conditions are shifting. Acting before inventory tightens further could be beneficial.
What This Means for Sellers
October offered sellers a more encouraging landscape than earlier in the fall. With fewer new listings entering the market, properly priced homes saw more consistent showings and engagement. Attractive, well-prepared properties continue to see the strongest results.
Key Takeaway: Sellers who position their home strategically and price with the current market will find more motivated buyers than in recent months.
Our Take
October marked an important turning point for Toronto real estate. While we’re not seeing dramatic price growth or frenzied bidding wars, the combination of stronger sales and softer listing numbers suggests the market is working toward balance. Confidence has improved, and both freehold and condo buyers are moving more decisively than they did over the summer.
Heading into the final months of the year, the market appears more stable and predictable than it has been for most of 2025. For both buyers and sellers, clarity is returning, and informed strategies are key. As always, reach out any time if you’d like to learn more!
If you’ve ever made an offer on a Toronto condo—or are about to—you’ll quickly hear this term: status certificate. It might not sound exciting, but this document is a cornerstone of any smart condo purchase. It gives you (and your lawyer) a detailed snapshot of the condo corporation’s financial health, rules, and any red flags that could impact your investment.
Let’s break down what a status certificate is, what’s inside, where you can order one in Ontario, and why it matters more than most buyers realize.
What is a Status Certificate?
A status certificate is an official document issued by a condominium corporation that provides key financial and legal information about a specific condo unit and the condo corporation as a whole.
In Ontario, it’s a legal requirement under Section 76 of the Condominium Act, 1998. Condo corporations must issue one within 10 calendar days of receiving a written request and a $100 fee (HST included).
Whether you’re buying, selling, or refinancing a condo, this document is essential—it can affect offer conditions, financing approval, and even your long-term ownership experience.
What’s Inside a Status Certificate?
It’s more than just a single sheet. A typical status certificate includes:
Declaration, by-laws, and rules of the condo corporation
Monthly common expenses for the unit (and whether the current owner is up to date)
Audited financial statements from the previous year
Details of any legal proceedings, judgments, or outstanding claims
Whether the unit is subject to a lien
Names and contact information for directors and officers of the condo board
This bundle helps your real estate lawyer flag issues like underfunded reserves or pending lawsuits—things that aren’t obvious from a showing or MLS listing.
Check out the podcast episode we did on all things status certificates:
Cost: $100 (HST included), set by provincial regulation
Delivery timeline: 10 calendar days from the date of request and payment
Format: Usually provided via secure PDF download, email, or printed hard copy
Some management firms also offer expedited service—usually within 2–3 business days—for an additional fee (often ranging from $50 to $135 extra).
Where to Order a Status Certificate in Ontario
Depending on how a building is managed, status certificates can be ordered through several platforms. Here are the most commonly used options:
StatusCertificate.com The most widely used service in Ontario. Many property management firms rely on this platform. Simply search by condo address and unit number, and you can order directly online.
Condo Control Used by many Toronto buildings. If your condo is registered, you can order certificates through your resident portal.
CondoBI Provides centralized access for condo documents. Works with affiliated management companies and allows digital payment and delivery.
Percel Property Management Offers both standard and expedited status certificate orders. Ideal for time-sensitive transactions.
Wilson Blanchard Allows status certificate requests online for buildings they manage.
CondoCafe Used by large firms like FirstService Residential. You’ll need login credentials linked to your building.
Direct from Property Manager or Condo Board In smaller or self-managed buildings, requests are handled manually. Contact the property manager or board directly and be prepared to send payment via cheque or e-transfer.
Why Status Certificates Matter in the Buying Process
For buyers, the status certificate is typically reviewed as part of a conditional offer—meaning your deal only proceeds if the certificate comes back clean. That review is done by your real estate lawyer, and they’re looking for:
Evidence of a healthy reserve fund
Any upcoming special assessments (one-time repair costs to be paid by owners)
Legal issues involving the condo corporation
Liens or unpaid maintenance fees on the unit
Rules or restrictions that may affect how you use the property (e.g., pets, short-term rentals)
Sellers may also choose to proactively order one in advance to speed up the process—especially in competitive markets.
Common Questions About Status Certificates
Who pays for it? Traditionally, the buyer covers the cost (as part of their due diligence), but some sellers may offer it upfront.
Can anyone request one? Yes—anyone can request a status certificate as long as they provide the written request and $100 fee.
How long is it valid? There’s no official expiry, but certificates older than 30 days are often considered outdated for legal review.
What if it’s not delivered within 10 days? That’s a breach of the Condominium Act. While rare, your lawyer can escalate if delays occur.
Is the content negotiable? No—the condo corporation must disclose certain information in a fixed format. It’s not something you can “amend.”
Final Thoughts
Ordering a status certificate might seem like a formality, but it can reveal a lot about the property you’re buying—or selling. In a city like Toronto where condo purchases move fast, understanding where to order one and what to look for can give you a real edge.
Think of it as your condo’s report card—and every good deal starts with doing your homework.
For more tips on buying a condo in Toronto, send us a message below!
Ask most Torontonians what Yorkdale conjures up and they’ll picture a gleaming cathedral of luxury retail—Gucci bags, Apple launches, the whole nine yards. Fair! But plant yourself just outside those revolving doors and you’ll discover a neighbourhood that quietly levels‑up your daily routine. From dirt‑cheap car‑wash memberships to secret lattés away from the food‑court frenzy, living near Yorkdale is basically a life hack in postal‑code form.
Yorkdale Shopping Mall
Below, five perks even seasoned shoppers might have missed (plus a quick‑fire spec sheet if you’re sizing up a move).
1. Retail & Outlet Double‑Dip
Yes, you’re footsteps from the world‑class Yorkdale Shopping Centre—handy when you shatter your phone screen and need Genius Bar triage stat. But the real wallet saver is a seven‑minute stroll west to Orfus Road’s factory‑outlet row. Roots hoodies at half price, Nike kicks on permanent clearance, boxed kitchen gadgets you didn’t know you needed—errand day suddenly feels like a covert sample sale.
Pro tip: Tack on a weekday morning run to dodge weekend bus‑tour crowds. Your future self (and closet) will thank you.
2. Transit & Travel Hacks in Your Pocket
Living beside a subway station is nice. Living beside Yorkdale Stationand a full GO Bus terminal is downright smug. Swipe onto the TTC for a 20‑minute ride downtown, or board GO Bus Route 94 straight to Pearson when a last‑minute seat‑sale pings your inbox. No Uber surge, no long‑term parking tab.
Driving? Theres ample free parking on site — and cyclists get a secure Bike Room complete with lockers so you’re not playing street‑lock roulette.
3. Unlimited Car Wash
Salt, slush, and construction grime can make your car look like it’s auditioning for a Mad Max sequel. Enter Crosstown Car Wash Yorkdale. For roughly the cost of a monthly streaming bundle ($24.99), their unlimited‑wash club keeps your ride shiny year‑round—plus free vacuums for a quick interior detox.
4. Off‑Mall Food & Coffee Gems
COPS Doughnuts
Skip the food‑court lineup and wander a block or two for flavours you won’t find under the mall’s skylights:
Cocoon Coffee, 855 Wilson Ave – tiny, plant‑filled, laptop‑friendly; their honey‑lavender latte has a cult following.
COPS Doughnuts– hot, made-to-order mini donuts best devoured while they’re still warm.
Amico Bakery on Dufferin – cannoli so crisp they crack audibly. Arrive early; nonna’s already in line.
Lady York on Dufferin – Italian grocery stalwart with a legendary deli counter and fresh weekly specials.
Your taste buds (and Instagram feed) just got a promotion.
5. Greenspace & Purpose‑Built Perks
Downsview Park
A luxury mall address might not scream “outdoor oasis,” yet Downsview Park is a single subway stop north—290 acres of running trails, summer concerts, and an urban farm market that sells out of sourdough by 10 a.m.
Looking to rent before you buy? Sloane by Fitztrovia sits right beside the park. Think boutique‑hotel lobby vibes plus resident‑only bowling alley, PS5 gaming lounge, kids’ jungle‑gym zone, and co‑work suites outfitted with a few extra private booths. Purpose-built living also comes with a few extra perks you won’t find when you rent an ordinary condo unit.
Mix of young professionals, airport‑commuters & long‑time locals
*Scores via Walk Score and TTC trip planner.
Is Yorkdale Your Next Neighbourhood Move?
If you crave designer shopping at 9 a.m., freshly baked donuts at noon, and need to catch a flight at Pearson by 7 p.m.—all while paying less than downtown rent—Yorkdale might be your Goldilocks zone. And should you prefer turnkey renter perks over negotiating with an investor landlord, Sloane by Fitztrovia has a bowling lane with your name on it.
Ready to chat strategy or book a tour? shoot us a message below —we’ll walk (or bus) you through next steps.
