Prices Continue to Slide as Buyer Caution Shapes Year-End Market

As 2025 came to a close, the Centre Wellington real estate market showed continued signs of cooling, with home prices moving lower and buyers remaining cautious amid ongoing economic and global uncertainty. While sales activity held relatively steady, the numbers suggest that pricing pressure is firmly tilted in buyers’ favour, particularly compared to this time last year.

Home Prices Under Pressure

One of the most notable takeaways from December’s data is the sharp decline in sale prices. The median sale price fell to $731,000, representing a 15% drop year-over-year, while the average sale price declined even further, down 21% to $782,855

These declines reinforce a trend that has been building throughout much of 2025: sellers are having to adjust expectations to meet today’s market reality.

On a year-to-date basis, the average sale price finished 2025 at $844,440, down from over $900,000 in 2024, while the median price also slipped modestly. Combined with a rising average days-on-market — now sitting at 49 days, up 11 days from last year — it’s clear that homes are taking longer to sell unless priced correctly.

Sales Activity Holds, But Volume Declines

December saw 22 residential sales, a slight increase compared to December 2024. However, despite that uptick in unit sales, overall dollar volume declined by nearly 17.5%, coming in at just over $17.2 million. This gap between sales count and total volume highlights the impact of lower pricing rather than increased demand.

Across all of 2025, Centre Wellington recorded 448 total sales, down from 485 in 2024, while total annual sales volume fell more than 14% year-over-year. These figures point to a market where transactions are still happening, but at more conservative price points.

Listings, Expiries, and Buyer Leverage

New listings in December dropped to 29 homes, down more than 21% from last year, which has helped prevent a surge in active inventory. That said, expired listings jumped 47% year-over-year, suggesting many sellers are choosing to step back rather than accept lower offers.

For buyers, this environment continues to create negotiation opportunities, particularly on properties that have been on the market longer. With year-to-date new listings up over 20% compared to 2024 and the annual sales-to-listings ratio falling to 40%, the broader trend continues to favour those who are patient and well-prepared.

What This Means Moving Into 2026

Heading into the new year, the Centre Wellington market remains defined by price sensitivity and cautious decision-making. Buyers are taking their time, and sellers who hope to succeed in 2026 will need to be realistic and responsive to market feedback.

Until confidence improves and uncertainty eases, downward pressure on pricing is likely to remain, making accurate pricing and strong presentation more important than ever.

As always, local market conditions can vary by neighbourhood and property type. Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or simply keeping an eye on the market, staying informed is key as we move into the year ahead.

Feel free to reach out to me anytime at 519-766-3716 for honest, straightforward real estate advice.

George

Full Report: Royal LePage® Royal City, Brokerage. Centre Wellington Market Report. December 2025: