Ottawa Market Snapshot – February

According to the latest Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) Market Overview, February showed a slower winter market overall, but with signs that demand is beginning to strengthen as we move toward spring.

Key Stats:

• 780 homes sold in February
• Sales were 6.8% lower than February 2025
• Activity was 21% below the 5-year February average

Average Sale Price: $662,773
(down 1% year-over-year)

Median Sale Price: $615,450
(down 3.1% year-over-year)

There were 2,928 active listings at the end of February, which is 11% higher than last year, giving buyers more choice than we’ve seen in recent markets.

Months of Inventory by Property Type:

• Single-Family Homes: 3.8 months
• Townhomes: 2.7 months
• Condos/Apartments: 5.6 months

Even with a slower winter overall, benchmark prices actually increased month-over-month across all property types, suggesting that pricing momentum is starting to firm as we move closer to the spring market.

What This Means for Buyers

With inventory increasing, buyers are gaining something that has been rare over the past few years:

More choice and a little more breathing room.

That said, one trend continues.

Well-priced, well-prepared homes are still attracting strong interest and sometimes multiple offers.

If you walk into a home and think “this is the one,” chances are someone else may feel the same way.

Tips for Buyers

✔ Get pre-approved before seriously touring homes
✔ Watch homes in competitive price ranges closely
✔ Move confidently when the right property appears
✔ Work with an experienced Realtor® who can guide strategy if competition arises

What This Means for Sellers

With more homes on the market, pricing and preparation matter more than ever.

The properties seeing the strongest results right now tend to:

✔ Be priced strategically from day one
✔ Show beautifully (clean, staged, well maintained)
✔ Be professionally marketed

Buyers may have more choice, but they still move quickly when a home stands out.

Tips for Renters in Today’s Market

Rental demand in Ottawa remains strong, particularly for well-maintained units. Many listings are still receiving multiple applications, so preparation is key.

Most landlords now expect:

✔ Two recent pay stubs
✔ A full credit report
✔ References from previous landlords

If your credit score is below 650, consider arranging a co-signer in advance. Having this ready can help keep your application competitive when several tenants apply for the same property.

March Break Is Almost Here

With March Break starting March 16, many families are looking for fun ways to keep kids entertained around Ottawa. Here are a few local ideas:

🌊 Mermaids in Brockville

 

 

 

The Aquatarium in Brockville hosts its popular mermaid experience during March Break where performers swim through the tanks and interact with visitors. It’s a fun and unique day trip from Ottawa.

🦘 Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park

 

 

 

If your kids have energy to burn, Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park is always a hit with wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball courts. For children 12 and under there is also an adventure playground to explore.

🦉 Little Ray’s Nature Centre

 

For something educational and interactive, Little Ray’s Nature Centre offers wildlife encounters where kids can see reptiles, birds of prey, and other animals up close.

If you’re thinking about buying, selling, renting, or planning a move this year, I’m always happy to talk through your options.

Warmly,

Catherine Oliver
Realtor® | Serving Ottawa & Area
📞 613-604-0597
🌐 catherineoliver.ca