By Irina Marchenkova, Sales Representative, RE/MAX Realtron Realty · Published September 2026, based on TRREB’s August 2026 Market Watch report.
The Greater Toronto Area housing market stayed balanced in August 2026. Fewer homes were listed for sale than a year ago, sales edged slightly lower, and prices were modestly below last year’s levels. For buyers, that still means choice and room to negotiate. For sellers, tighter supply is a sign that conditions may be starting to shift.
August 2026 at a glance
| Measure | August 2026 | August 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home sales | 5,057 | 5,168 | −2.1% |
| New listings | 12,075 | 14,052 | −14.1% |
| Active listings (end of month) | 24,482 | 27,594 | −11.3% |
| Average selling price | $993,410 | $1,021,300 | −2.7% |
| MLS® HPI composite benchmark | $925,900 | — | −4.5% year over year |
| Average days on market (listing) | 35 | 33 | +2 days |
On a seasonally adjusted basis, sales were down slightly from July while new listings rose, and the MLS® Home Price Index composite was essentially flat month over month. According to TRREB, many households are still holding back because of concerns about trade with the United States and the possibility of higher inflation and borrowing costs, even though ownership has become relatively more affordable over the past year.
Prices by home type
| Home type | Sales | Average price |
|---|---|---|
| Detached | 2,399 | $1,288,669 |
| Semi-detached | 439 | $931,665 |
| Freehold townhouse (att/row) | 437 | $882,060 |
| Condo townhouse | 395 | $681,447 |
| Condo apartment | 1,330 | $617,593 |
Detached homes made up almost half of all sales. Condo apartments remain the most affordable entry point, and with plenty of listings, condo buyers currently have the most negotiating power.
Prices by region
| Region | Homes sold | Average price | Benchmark price | Change over the year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| City of Toronto | 1,767 | $979,684 | $918,400 | −3.73% |
| York Region | 971 | $1,179,938 | $1,089,400 | −6.18% |
| Peel Region | 940 | $908,415 | $871,200 | −5.23% |
| Durham Region | 602 | $819,569 | $811,000 | −4.62% |
| Halton Region | 571 | $1,110,436 | $960,100 | −2.95% |
| Whole GTA | 5,057 | $993,410 | $925,900 | −4.46% |
Halton held its value best over the past year, while York Region saw the largest benchmark decline. Durham remains the most affordable region in the GTA for freehold homes.
What this means for buyers
- You still have choice. There were about 24,500 active listings at the end of August, so you can compare options without rushing.
- Negotiation is back. With prices below last year, well-prepared buyers can often negotiate on price and conditions such as a home inspection.
- Watch supply. New listings fell 14% year over year. If that continues into the fall, competition for the best-priced homes could increase.
- Get pre-approved first. Knowing your budget lets you move quickly when the right home appears. See buying with Irina.
What this means for sellers
- Less competition from other listings. Fewer new listings means your home can stand out more than it would have a year ago.
- Price realistically. Buyers are value-focused; homes priced in line with recent sales sell faster.
- Preparation pays. Cleaning, small repairs, staging and professional photos still make a measurable difference. See selling with Irina or get a free home evaluation.
Local prices in your area
For benchmark prices, taxes, schools and transit in specific communities, see my area guides: Scarborough, North York, Downtown Toronto, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Mississauga, Oakville, Pickering and all 40 area guides, or explore them on the interactive map. По-русски: гиды по районам на русском.
Want to know what this means for your home?
Every street is different. Call or text me at 416-846-8064 or email irina@loveurlife.ca for a free, no-pressure look at recent sales near you. My next market update will cover TRREB’s September figures, released in early October.