Ottawa Real Estate Market Update – April 2025

Apr 10

Trends, Opportunities, and What It Means for Buyers and Sellers

As we head deeper into spring, Ottawa’s real estate market is showing signs of subtle but meaningful change. While some may describe the current landscape as uncertain, there are clear indicators that suggest both buyers and sellers can still find success — if they know where to look. Whether you're actively house hunting, preparing to sell, or simply keeping an eye on the market, this update breaks down what’s really happening in the Ottawa real estate market in April 2025.

Market Snapshot: April 2025

In the detached home segment, the average sale price sits at $851,653 — up slightly by 0.9% compared to last year. Homes in this category are selling relatively quickly, spending an average of just 16 days on the market. However, total sales volume has dipped by 6%, and inventory has risen to 4.0 months of supply, which marks a shift toward a more balanced market.

Townhomes remain one of the most competitive property types, with an average sale price of $558,232 — a 3.3% decline year-over-year. Despite the price drop, sales volume has increased by 3%, and properties are spending just 17 days on market. Inventory is low at 2.8 months of supply, keeping townhomes firmly in seller’s market territory.

Condominiums have experienced the biggest change, with the average price at $426,413, down 2.9% year-over-year. Sales volume has dropped by nearly 26%, and condos are now taking an average of 32 days to sell. With 5.5 months of inventory on the market, the condo segment is leaning more buyer-friendly, offering more options and time to make decisions.

A Closer Look: What’s Happening Across Property Types

Detached Homes: Signs of Stability

Detached homes in Ottawa are showing steady resilience. Prices have inched up by just under 1% compared to last year, and although sales activity has cooled slightly, homes are still selling quickly. With four months of inventory now available, buyers have more breathing room than they’ve had in recent years.

What this means:
Buyers are gaining the upper hand with more choice and less pressure, while sellers still have strong footing — provided they price realistically and present their homes well.

Townhomes: Still in High Demand

Townhomes continue to be a magnet for first-time buyers and young families. While average prices are down slightly, sales have picked up, and competition remains strong due to tight inventory.

What this means:
Buyers should be prepared to act quickly and decisively. For sellers, this segment offers one of the best chances to sell quickly and at a strong price — especially with good marketing and a clean, move-in ready presentation.

Condos: Buyer Opportunities on the Rise

Ottawa’s condo market is experiencing the biggest slowdown, with a notable drop in both price and sales volume. Properties are taking longer to sell, and inventory is the highest of all three segments.

What this means:
Buyers and investors have more flexibility, room to negotiate, and less competition. Sellers, on the other hand, will need to be strategic — sharp pricing, standout marketing, and staging are all more important than ever.

Key Market Trends to Watch

1. Federal Election Uncertainty

With a federal election looming, some buyers and sellers are hitting pause. However, election lead-ups have historically provided windows of opportunity — often with fewer competing buyers in the market.

2. Possible Rate Cuts Later in 2025

Many economists are forecasting potential interest rate reductions in the second half of the year. This could bring new buyers into the market, increasing competition. Those who act before rates drop may benefit from greater negotiating power.

3. Spring Activity Is Picking Up

March brought an early wave of activity, and momentum is building into April and May. Expect to see more listings and increased buyer interest as we move further into spring.

4. Balanced Inventory, Not an Oversupply

While inventory levels have increased, we’re not seeing the kind of flood that would tip the market dramatically in either direction. This keeps things balanced, giving both sides a fair shot.

5. Townhomes Lead on Affordability

With affordability still a primary concern, townhomes continue to attract strong demand, especially in popular neighbourhoods just outside the downtown core.

6. Buyers Getting Creative

From co-ownership and house hacking to dual-income applications, buyers are finding ways to stay active in the market — even in the face of higher borrowing costs.

Looking Ahead: What Buyers and Sellers Should Expect

For Buyers

This spring may be your best chance to shop with less competition. Detached homes and condos offer room to negotiate, while townhomes will likely continue to require speed and decisiveness. If interest rates are cut later this year, demand may spike — so getting ahead of that curve could be a smart move.

Tips for buyers:

Get mortgage pre-approval now to lock in rates.
Explore underperforming segments like condos for potential deals.
Work with a local agent who understands neighbourhood-specific trends in Ottawa.

For Sellers

Sales are still happening, especially in high-demand segments. But gone are the days of effortless bidding wars. Homes that are clean, well-marketed, and properly priced are seeing the most success.

Tips for sellers:

Invest in listing preparation — from cleaning and decluttering to professional photos.
Take advantage of the spring market before summer distractions and election-related uncertainty set in.
Ask your real estate agent about local trends in your neighbourhood to fine-tune your pricing strategy.

Final Thoughts

The Ottawa real estate market in April 2025 is active, balanced, and filled with potential — but it’s not without its challenges. Navigating today’s market requires a solid understanding of how each property type is performing and how larger economic trends might impact your next move.

Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or simply stay informed, having the right strategy and support will make all the difference.

If you’re curious about your options or want a personalized game plan, let’s connect.