Market Snapshot: A Slower Start, More Choice, and Growing Leverage for Buyers

January kicked off with a familiar theme we’ve been watching build for the past few years: more listings, fewer sales, and longer timelines. Sales in January 2026 came in below last year, while active listings continued to climb, pushing months of inventory to 5 months, firmly into balanced-to-buyer-leaning territory.

Prices remain relatively stable compared to late 2024 and 2025, but the direction is clear: pricing power is no longer automatic. Average sale prices edged lower year-over-year, and homes are taking longer to sell, with days on market now averaging mid-50s, compared to under 40 days just two years ago.

What stands out most is supply. New listings remain elevated, and active inventory is sitting at levels we haven’t seen in several years. That means buyers have more choice and more time, while sellers need to be sharper with pricing, presentation, and strategy to stand out.

This isn’t a “bad” market, it’s a selective one. Well-priced, well-presented homes are still selling. The difference is that the margin for error is much smaller than it was during the peak years.

As always, strategy matters more than headlines.

Happening in Hamilton

Week of February 6th - 12th

SEEDY SATURDAY HAMILTON 2026 (Hamilton Public Library Central Branch) Sat, Feb 7th, 10am–3pm — Free gardening and sustainability event with vendors, workshops and seed giveaways — great for gardeners and nature lovers. Free Click here for more info

VALENTINE’S CARD WORKSHOP (Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum) Sun, Feb 8th 1pm-3pm — Create your own Valentine’s cards in this hands-on workshop. Free Click here for more info

FLORAL SHOWCASE: BLOOMLAND IN OZ (Royal Botanical Gardens) Jan 31st-April 6th — A floral art showcase event celebrating colour and creativity at RBG. Tickets $24 Click here for more info

Featured Listing

Welcome to this solid brick bungalow with full walk-out basement on the highly desirable Stoney Creek Mountain. Offering an open concept layout ideal for families, with an in-law suite perfect for multi-generational living, or buyers looking to offset mortgage costs. The main floor features a bright, functional layout with two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and convenient main-floor laundry. The fully finished lower level includes a self-contained in-law suite with a separate kitchen, living area, two bedrooms, full bathroom, and private separate entrance through the walk-out basement making it perfect for extended family or added income potential. An attached double car garage, private double wide driveway, and proximity to parks, schools, conservation trails, and everyday amenities complete this well-rounded home.

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