July 2025: Summer Reflection and Market Opportunity

Summer Reflection

July is one of my favourite months: Canada Day, sunny BBQs, and maybe a little time off if we’re lucky. It’s a season where we all try to slow down, enjoy family, and recharge.

It’s also a great time to zoom out and reflect. How is the year going? Where are the opportunities? What do my clients really need right now?

Ottawa Real Estate: A Bit Softer, But Still Solid

Let’s talk numbers. The market in Ottawa has definitely softened, but we’re not seeing the kind of sharp declines some other Ontario cities are dealing with.

Here’s what I’m seeing:

• Tenant turnover is down, from about 20% in 2018 to 14.5% now, which tells me renters are staying put longer.
• Average home prices are around 12% below early 2022 levels, opening doors in detached homes and condos.
• Immigration is holding steady, and Ottawa is still seen as a stable place to invest.

The market is cooler, but that’s often where real opportunities show up.

Balancing It All Without Burning Out

Burnout keeps coming up in conversations with clients and colleagues. In our line of work, it’s easy to say yes to everything and everyone.

Helping people relocate from other provinces or countries is incredibly rewarding, but it’s also a lot to manage. Sometimes doing a great job means not taking on too much at once.

Helping Newcomers Is Still Too Hard

This is something I care deeply about. New immigrants trying to find housing face major barriers:

• No Canadian credit score.
• No local job history.
• Often no one to vouch for them.

These are good people trying to start their lives, and they’re hitting walls. I believe stronger short-term housing support would help integration and community outcomes.

On the Personal Side

July has also been a month of milestones. My dad turned 86, which made me reflect on legacy, time, and what really matters. My daughter is off to Portugal on an adventure, and I’m excited for her.

Even when the market is unpredictable, family is the constant.

Let’s Talk

If you’ve got questions about the market, housing policy, or just want to swap ideas, I’m always up for a chat.