If you’ve been following the real estate market lately, you’ve probably noticed a shift — and it’s a positive one. September’s numbers confirm what many of us have been feeling: buyer confidence is starting to come back.

According to the latest report from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board, home sales were up 8.5% compared to September of last year, with 5,592 homes sold across the GTA. More buyers are stepping off the sidelines and into the market, encouraged by the Bank of Canada’s recent interest rate cut and the resulting drop in monthly mortgage costs.

At the same time, we saw 19,260 new listings hit the market — a 4% increase year-over-year. That’s giving buyers more choice, which has led to healthy negotiation and a bit of price flexibility. The average selling price for September came in at $1,059,377, down 4.7% from last year, but up slightly (+0.2%) compared to August. That month-over-month uptick might seem small, but it’s a good signal that prices are stabilizing after a period of adjustment.

The MLS® Home Price Index Composite Benchmark was down 5.5% year-over-year, but remember — real estate moves in cycles. What we’re seeing now is the market finding its balance. Inventory levels remain strong enough to give buyers room to move, but with new listings dipping slightly compared to August, conditions are beginning to tighten in some pockets.

That balance is key. It means sellers still have opportunities if they price strategically, and buyers can make smart moves without the pressure of bidding wars. And if we see another one or two rate cuts in the months ahead, affordability will continue to improve — likely fuelling even more activity heading into winter and early 2026.

At Skill Realty, we see this as a time for measured optimism. The market is adjusting, confidence is rising, and momentum is building again. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, sell strategically, or invest with the future in mind — there are opportunities out there worth exploring.