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The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) housing market experienced significant developments in May 2023. With increasing sales and a persistent supply shortage, the market dynamics continue to shape the region's real estate landscape. In this blog post, we will delve into the top three highlights from the latest market update provided by the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB).
1. Surge in Sales, but Supply Falls Short:
May 2023 witnessed a notable 24.7% surge in home sales compared to the same period last year. The demand for ownership housing has been robust, as buyers recalibrated their needs in response to higher borrowing costs. However, this surge in demand has not been met with a corresponding increase in supply. New listings were down by 18.7% year-over-year, exacerbating the existing shortage of available homes for sale.
2. Intensifying Competition and Rising Prices:
The limited housing supply has created fierce competition among buyers. The sales-to-new-listings ratio skyrocketed, indicating a substantial increase in buyer competition compared to the previous year. This heightened competition, coupled with strong rent growth and population growth driven by immigration, has exerted upward pressure on selling prices. In May 2023, the average selling price reached nearly $1.2 million, representing a 1.2% decline year-over-year but a significant 3.5% increase compared to the previous month.
3. Housing Supply Challenges and Affordability Concerns:
The GTA's housing supply challenges have drawn attention from residents and experts alike. A recent Ipsos poll revealed that City of Toronto residents gave the Council a failing grade on housing affordability, pointing to the lack of supply as a major concern. This issue is not unique to Toronto but extends throughout the Greater Golden Horseshoe region. If housing supply fails to catch up with population growth, it could hinder the region's economic development, potentially causing people and businesses to seek alternatives elsewhere.
The May 2023 market update showcases both the strengths and challenges of the GTA housing market. While sales have surged and demand remains strong, the persisting shortage of available homes for sale has intensified competition and driven up prices. Addressing the housing supply issue is crucial to alleviate affordability concerns and support the region's economic growth. Stakeholders must focus on finding sustainable solutions to balance supply and demand, ensuring a more affordable and accessible housing market for the GTA's residents.