Guelph Real Estate Market Update: August 2025

Andra Arnold • September 3, 2025

August is traditionally a slower month for real estate, often ranking alongside December in terms of sales activity. With so many families away on vacation in July and August, daily transactions tend to dip below the yearly average. This year was no exception—sales in Guelph were down 26% from July. That said, we expect things to pick up again through September and October as families settle back into their routines after summer break.

On the pricing side, the median sale price rose 2.8% month-over-month but still sits 2.5% lower than last year—almost exactly where we were in August 2023. This stability could be a sign that the market has bottomed out and may now be on the path toward a slow recovery.

Of course, the picture varies by segment. Detached homes continue to perform well, while condos remain more challenging. Families who need to make a move are still active, but we’re seeing fewer investors and speculative buyers in the mix. Interestingly, condo townhomes are holding stronger than both freehold townhomes and semi-detached properties. Affordability is a big reason—condo townhomes generally come in at a lower price point, making them appealing to buyers who are keeping a close eye on monthly carrying costs but still want more space or a practical entry into the market.

Looking ahead, there’s still some uncertainty, especially with all the talk about possible interest rate cuts. Even if rates don’t come down soon, it’s still an excellent time to buy. Sellers are adjusting to the reality that the market isn’t as frenzied as it was a few years ago, but well-priced homes—especially detached properties and those in higher-end segments—are still moving and creating solid opportunities for serious buyers and sellers.

What matters most right now is working within the market we’re in.

For sellers who are also buying, pricing realistically today may mean taking home a bit less than you might have at past peaks—but that can be offset by negotiating more effectively on your purchase or securing a better mortgage structure.
For buyers, entering the market while prices remain steady and interest rates are moderate can put you in a great position. If rates drop and prices climb again, you’ll already be in the market, ready to benefit from equity gains and lower borrowing costs.

The key to success in today’s market is setting realistic expectations. If your home is listed at a fair price, it should sell—but in today’s environment, “quick” usually means 30 to 60 days, not a single weekend. Buyers are more cautious, taking time to compare options, secure financing, and move at a deliberate pace. That doesn’t mean homes aren’t selling—it just means the definition of “fast” has changed.

A home that’s well-prepared, marketed effectively, and priced in line with current comparables will still draw strong interest. On the flip side, an overpriced home often lingers on the market, leading to reductions that can make buyers wary. By pricing strategically from the start, sellers increase their chances of a smoother sale and maintain stronger negotiating power.

Overall, I believe the Canadian real estate market will remain stable and resilient in the months and years to come. As we head into the fall, activity typically picks up, and we may even see some modest upward movement in prices. That’s where things stand today—if you’d like to talk through how these trends could affect your own plans, whether buying, selling, or both, I’d be more than happy to connect.

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