October 2025 Newsletter

Thurston Olsen Real Estate Group

Hey Friends!

October is here! The leaves are changing, the air’s crisp, and Toronto is settling into fall routines, and pumpkin spice is officially out of hiding. Let’s not forget our beloved Blue Jays return to October Baseball – LET’S GO JAYS!

The real estate market is in full swing too!

Fall is traditionally one of the busiest seasons. Buyers are focused, sellers are motivated, and fresh listings are hitting the market.

It’s a great time to take stock:

Thinking of selling? This is one of the prime windows before the holiday slowdown.

Buying? Inventory typically expands this time of year, giving you more choice.

Just curious? Keeping tabs on your neighbourhood’s market activity can give you a sharper edge when you do decide to move.

And because fall wouldn’t be complete without a little sweetness… let’s just say there may be some pumpkin pie in your future (see below for details!)

Here’s your October 2025 Market Update!

 

 

September gave the Toronto market a bit of a boost. With the Bank of Canada’s recent rate cut, monthly mortgage payments became a little more manageable, and that helped to bring more buyers off the sidelines. Compared to last September, sales jumped 14.1%, even though prices were down about 2.1% year-over-year. Buyers are still enjoying a lot of choice, which means they’ve been able to negotiate in many cases and keep prices in check.

But here’s the twist: not every part of the market feels the same. While condos are moving at a slower pace, in-demand freehold properties are still drawing crowds, and yes, multiple offers are very much still happening in some pockets. Month-to-month, sales ticked up from August while new listings remained steady, which could add a little extra pressure to certain neighbourhoods as we head deeper into the fall market.

The big picture? Buyers are cautiously stepping back in, sellers who price strategically and present well are finding success, and the market continues to be a mix of opportunities and challenges depending on the property type and location. It’s shaping up to be a lively (and competitive) fall season.

Check out the September year-over-year stats below for more information on the current market.

If you would like statistics specific to your neighbourhood, an updated Comparative Market Analysis for your home, or help deciphering what the numbers could mean for you, please let us know and we would be happy to provide that for you.

 

FREE PUMPKIN PIE!

Join Us At Our First Annual Pie Giveaway

We love our amazing clients and our neighbourhood, so we’re saying THANK YOU the sweetest way we know how… with FREE pie!

On Saturday, October 11 at 10am, we’ll be at Greenwood Park giving away *100 free pumpkin pies.

Come by, grab one, and let’s kick off Thanksgiving weekend together!

*first come, first served. Limit 1 pie per family.

 

Fixed vs. Variable: What’s the Right Mortgage for You?

One of the most common questions we hear is: should I go with a fixed or variable rate mortgage? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really comes down to your comfort level and long-term goals.

A fixed rate gives you stability: you’ll know exactly what your payments are for the entire term. That peace of mind is great for budgeting (especially for first-time buyers), and it protects you if rates rise. The trade-off? Fixed rates usually start a bit higher, and if you need to break your mortgage early, penalties can sting.

A variable rate, on the other hand, often starts lower and has historically cost less over the long run. Penalties for breaking early are typically smaller too. But there’s more uncertainty: your payments can change if rates move, and that can be stressful if you’re tight on cash flow.

Right now, fixed rates are sitting close to long-term averages and look pretty attractive, especially 5-year terms for those who want stability. With that said, with the Bank of Canada expected to cut rates again, variable borrowers could see more savings if they’re comfortable riding out short-term bumps.

At the end of the day, it’s about what helps you sleep at night: the predictability of fixed, or the potential savings of variable. If you’re not sure, we can connect you with one of our trusted mortgage brokers to run the numbers for your situation.

 

We’re Here To Help!

As always, we would be happy to help you and any of your friends, family, colleagues, or neighbours with real estate services or advice. If you can think of anyone who could use our help, feel free to make an introduction! We promise we’ll make you look good.

Cheers!

Chris and Ford