National Market Shows Resilience Despite Monthly Slowdown

Canada’s housing market took a slight breather in September, with home sales dipping by 1.7% compared to the previous month. However, don’t let that small decline fool you. According to a new report from The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), sales activity still hit a four-year peak for the month of September, showing underlying strength in the market.

While this data provides a national overview, it offers valuable insight for anyone thinking about buying or selling a home here in Saint John and across New Brunswick. Here’s what we know.

A National Snapshot: By the Numbers

The report, dated October 16, 2025, highlights several key trends. While month-over-month sales saw a modest dip, actual sales activity was up 5.2% compared to September of last year. This suggests that more buyers are active in the market now than they were a year ago.

Here are the key takeaways from September:

• The number of newly listed homes for sale edged down by 0.8%.
• The national average home price was $676,154, a slight increase of 0.7% from September 2024.
• The market remains balanced, with 4.4 months of inventory available. This is a stable figure that doesn’t strongly favour either buyers or sellers.

Expert Insights on Market Momentum

Experts believe the slight dip in September is just a pause, not a reversal of the market’s recovery. Shaun Cathcart, CREA’s Senior Economist, pointed to strong underlying demand.

“With three years of pent-up demand still out there and more normal interest rates finally here, the forecast continues to be for further upward momentum in home sales over the final quarter of the year and into 2026,” Cathcart stated in the release.

Valérie Paquin, CREA’s Chair, echoed this sentiment, noting that while more buyers are in the market, sales activity is still below its long-term average. “We expect things will continue to steadily pick up going forward,” she said. Paquin also advised prospective buyers and sellers, “If you want to better understand how to buy or sell a property in this evolving market, contact a REALTOR® in your area today.”

What This Means for You in Saint John

For those in the Saint John market, these national trends suggest a stable and gradually strengthening real estate environment. A balanced market means you may find more room for negotiation whether you’re buying or selling. The slight year-over-year price increase at the national level indicates that property values are holding firm, which is good news for homeowners.

The key takeaway is that the market is active and predicted to grow. If you’ve been waiting on the sidelines, now could be the time to start planning your next move. Understanding local conditions is crucial, as real estate is always specific to the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Canadian home prices go up or down in September?

Nationally, the MLS® Home Price Index was almost flat compared to August (-0.1%), but the national average sale price increased by 0.7% compared to September of last year.

Is it a buyer’s or a seller’s market?

According to CREA, the national market is considered balanced. With 4.4 months of inventory, conditions do not strongly favour either buyers or sellers.

What is the forecast for the rest of the year?

CREA economists predict that home sales will continue to gain momentum through the end of the year and into 2026, driven by pent-up demand and more stable interest rates.

How do these national numbers affect the Saint John market?

While national trends provide important context about the overall health of the real estate market, local conditions can vary. This report suggests a stable economic backdrop, but for specific advice on pricing and opportunities in Saint John, you should consult with a local real estate professional.