Why Homes Stay on the Market Longer in the GTA

In summer 2025, the average DOM across the GTA is approximately 24–25 days. However, this figure hides significant variation between neighborhoods and housing types— here’s a look at what’s driving the trend and what it means for buyers and sellers.

🧭 Key Drivers Behind Extended Days on Market (DOM)

1. Rising Inventory & Mortgage Renewals

·        Listings are up nearly 25% year-over-year (2024–2025), giving buyers more choice—but creating more competition for sellers.

·        Many homeowners facing mortgage renewals are choosing to list their properties instead of accepting higher rates, but are unwilling to reduce prices—causing homes to linger.

2. High Interest Rates Are Limiting Buyer Power

·        Despite recent Bank of Canada rate cuts, borrowing costs remain high.

·        Buyers are cautious, resulting in slower decision-making and fewer bidding wars.

3. Shifting Buyer Priorities

·        Post-pandemic, buyers value lifestyle features—like outdoor space, walkability, and transit access.

·        Condos, particularly downtown Toronto units, are seeing weaker demand and longer DOM (~30 days), while well-priced freeholds move faster.

📍 Regional Market Trends: How Long Are Homes Staying on the Market?

The Days on Market (DOM) isn’t one-size-fits-all across the Greater Toronto Area. It can vary significantly based on location, housing type, buyer demographics, and inventory levels. Here’s how things look in key GTA regions as of summer 2025:

🏘️ Richmond Hill – Average DOM: 30–31 Days

Richmond Hill is currently showing the slowest market pace among the areas tracked. This is largely due to increased inventory, particularly in larger single-family homes, and buyers becoming more selective. Higher price points and a larger supply of listings mean homes are often staying on the market for a full month or more.

🏙️ Toronto (City of Toronto) – Average DOM: ~26.6 Days

Toronto remains a relatively balanced market. However, the condo segment is softening, with many units taking longer to sell—especially downtown. Detached homes, on the other hand, continue to sell faster when priced correctly and well-presented.

🌳 Aurora – Average DOM: ~28 Days

Aurora is consistent with suburban trends—homes aren’t sitting too long, but the pace is slower than central Toronto. With good schools, transit access, and larger lots, it remains attractive, though buyers are cautious due to interest rate sensitivity.

🏡 Thornhill – Average DOM: ~26 Days

Thornhill has seen one of the most positive shifts year-over-year. DOM is down 28% compared to 2024, indicating strong buyer interest, likely driven by its mix of condo, townhome, and detached housing options, as well as family-friendly neighborhoods and school zones.

🏘️ Markham & Vaughan – Average DOM: 25–35 Days

These high-growth areas are experiencing mixed results. In some communities (like Maple or Cornell), homes sell relatively quickly. In others (such as Woodbridge), DOM can stretch beyond 30+ days, particularly for luxury or high-end listings. The diversity in housing stock makes these markets less predictable.

💬 Key Takeaway:

Location matters—but so do expectations.
Even in a high-demand region like the GTA, local nuances—neighborhood trends, housing types, and price sensitivity—make a big difference. Sellers need to stay grounded and informed, while buyers can leverage DOM as a negotiation tool.

🧠 Strategies: Understanding the Market Pace

For Sellers:

✅ Price strategically – In a balanced-to-buyer-leaning market (~62% SNLR), correct pricing is critical
✅ Stage to stand out – Homes with curb appeal and professional staging see stronger activity
✅ List mid-week – Launching on Wednesdays or Thursdays can capture weekend traffic before DOM builds up

For Buyers:

✅ Negotiate with leverage – After 2–3 weeks on market, sellers often become more flexible
✅ Be selective – With ~14,600 active listings (~1.8 months’ supply), you don’t need to rush
✅ Track DOM closely – A property’s time on market can indicate room for price movement

📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in real estate?
We’re here to help—every step of the way! Let’s make your next move your best one yet.
📞 Call or text anytime:
Kian Mousavi: 416‑616‑2002
Asal Matinsadeghy: 416‑318‑7279

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