September 2025 Newsletter

Thurston Olsen Real Estate Group

Hey Friends!

September already? The CNE’s packed up, the kids are back to school, and pumpkin spice is quietly plotting its comeback.

Toronto is shifting gears, from summer patios to fall routines, and the real estate market is doing the same.

The Fall Market is traditionally one of the busiest seasons in Toronto real estate. With buyers focused, sellers motivated, and a fresh wave of listings hitting the market after Labour Day, it’s a prime time to make a move.

Whether you’re settling back into city life, keeping an eye on your neighbourhood’s activity, or thinking about a fall sale, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s your September 2025 Market Update. Your go-to for the latest stats, insights, and trends to help you stay ahead.

Out in the field this past month, the story has been about choice. August sales were up compared to last year, but new listings climbed even higher, giving buyers the upper hand in negotiations. With average prices sitting 3.6% lower year-over-year, many buyers are taking their time, shopping around, and some securing homes below asking. With that said, the right houses are still attracting eager buyers, and in many cases, multiple offers!

For sellers, this means strategy is key, homes that are well-priced and well-presented are the ones that stand out and sell.

While activity dipped slightly from July, the market is still well-supplied heading into fall. With interest rates holding steady, and whispers of future cuts (possibly even a .25% cut this month), there’s a sense that more buyers could step back in as affordability improves.

In short, it’s a balanced market with opportunities on both sides, and the next few months could be an important window for making a move. The key is knowing how to navigate the market (we can help with that ).

Check out the August 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.

What Is Bridge Financing (And Why Might You Need It)?

Buying your next home before your current one closes is a common occurrence in real estate, and it’s crucial that you have your ducks in a row, before you pull the trigger.

That’s where bridge financing comes in. It’s a short-term loan that lets you tap into the equity from your existing home so you can put a down payment on your next one, without waiting for the sale to officially close.

Why it matters:

– You can secure your dream home without stressing over matching closing dates (super important if competing for your new home).

– It gives you breathing room to accept the best offer on your current place, even if the dates don’t line up.

– Extra flexibility: move in gradually, do a few renos, or skip the hassle of temporary housing and storage.

How it works:
Once your current home is sold (firm deal in place), your lender can set up a bridge loan that gets paid back when your sale closes. Most lenders offer them, but the key is that your mortgage is usually with the same lender.

A pro tip:
If possible, negotiate a longer closing date on your purchase. Lenders often need at least 15 business days between your sale and purchase closing dates to make the bridge financing process smooth and stress-free.

What does it cost?
Bridge loans are short-term (usually 30–90 days), with interest rates a bit higher than your mortgage (typically 2–4% above prime) and sometimes a flat admin fee ($200–$500). The good news? Since they’re short-lived, costs usually stay manageable.

Part of our job is making sure you’re set up for success. It’s the little details that can easily get missed without the right guidance, and that’s where we come in. With our experience and network of trusted professionals, we’ll help make your next move as smooth as possible. Have questions? Just reach out, we’re here to help!

COMING SOON!

The Fall market is starting off with a bang and we’re very excited to share that we’ve got three awesome new listings hitting the market this month!

A super-cool loft in the heart of King West with a huge private terrace and CN tower views, a wide and character-filled Beaches semi with tons of potential, and a Leslieville detached beauty, steps to Greenwood Park that checks all the boxes.

If one of these sounds like it could be your next move (or you know someone who’s looking), let’s chat! These gems won’t last long!

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