In real estate, there’s a saying that the best time to buy a house is now. That’s because no one can ever precisely predict the market. Even when interest rates drop or the market changes, it creates a slew of other factors that can prevent you from snagging your dream property.
Still, there are some considerations if you aren’t in a hurry and you’re wondering what time of year might be best to buy a house. We turned to some Canadian realtors to get their hot takes on when you should start house hunting.
The Busiest Time of Year
Spring is traditionally the busiest time of year for real estate in Canada, with more homes to choose from and eager buyers hitting the market. However, that isn’t necessarily the best time to purchase a home.
“There’s greater competition and upward pressure on prices,” says Angelo Ferlisi, a broker of record for Nest Seekers International.
“Spring is generally when families looking at upsizing or downsizing enter the market and have set a deadline to purchase so that they can get settled for the next school year,” says luxury real estate expert Nick J. Kyte of Coldwell Banker Real Estate.
The bottom line? You may have more options in the spring, but you’ll also face stiffer competition and the potential for higher prices.
The Best Time for Buyers
Conversely, the colder months in Canada tend to be slower for sellers, with fewer homes on the market. That puts sellers in a situation where they may be more eager to sell.
“The winter months, particularly December through February, often present unique opportunities for buyers,” says Ferlisi. “During this period, we typically see reduced competition and more motivated sellers due to seasonal factors like harsh weather and holiday commitments.”
He adds that buyers in markets like Toronto and Vancouver often pause house-hunting activity for the holidays, but their searches pick up in January and February. It’s also not uncommon for prices to dip slightly during that timeframe.
On the other hand, Kyte believes the last six months of the year are an ideal time for buyers and says the average sale price falls between two and five per cent between the spring and the end of the year.
Related: Real Estate Agents Across Canada Share Their 2025 Predictions
“The dead of summer and fall may be your best bet to snag that property for a better deal,” he says. “Long weekends are also a good time to make an offer, as most buyers want to enjoy the few holidays they have. Therefore, there’s less chance for competition.”
Certified luxury home marketing specialist and broker Jim Dolphin agrees. “With fewer buyers out there, competition is low, which means you have more leverage. Sellers are often more open to offers and flexible on terms, giving you the chance to get a better deal and close quickly.”
The Bottom Line
It may seem ideal to save a few thousand dollars on your home purchase by waiting for a specific time of year, but at the end of the day, the market is more than seasonal trends.
“Each market has its own dynamics,” says Ferlisi. “For instance, Toronto and Vancouver can see early-year opportunities, while Montreal’s unique rental cycle influences demand during the summer turnover period. Buyers need to focus on financial readiness, understanding the nuances of their local market, and acting when the right property aligns with their personal circumstances.”
This brings us back to that original real estate saying: the best time to buy is now.
“With housing affordability not becoming any better in the near future, now is the time,” says Dolphin. “If you don’t need to sell a house first, you’re in a great spot right now. Buyers need to know that this window won’t stay open forever — once more buyers jump back in, the market will heat up again. If you’re ready to make a move, this is your moment!”
Related: The Hottest Real Estate Markets in Canada Right Now
