Apple season is here! Crisp mornings, sweet orchard scents, and baskets waiting to be filled — September is the perfect month for apple picking in Durham Region. Here’s your go-to guide for local orchards and what you can expect this month:

1. Maple Grove Orchards (Bowmanville)

👉 maplegroveorchards.ca
This family-run orchard is rolling out apple varieties week by week:

• Ginger Gold – Sept 5

• McIntosh & Royal Gala – Sept 12

• Honeycrisp & Cortland – Sept 19

• Empire – Sept 26

• Fuji – Oct 3

• Red Delicious – Oct 10

Perfect for families who love planning return visits to try different apples all season long!

2. Nature’s Bounty Farm (Port Perry)

👉 naturesbountyfarm.ca
Open since Sept 4, this scenic farm offers over a dozen varieties. September highlights include:

• Gala & Honeycrisp – mid-September

• Cortland, Macoun, Shizuka, Northern Spy, Red Delicious – mid-September

• Ambrosia, Jonagold, Empire – late September/early October

It’s a great spot for families who want variety and a longer season of apple picking.

3. Archibald’s Orchard & Estate Winery (Bowmanville)

👉 archibaldswinery.com
Pick-Your-Own starts Saturday, Sept 6! 🍏

• Early September: Paula Red, Silken, Gala, McIntosh

• Sept 13: Cortland & Honeycrisp

• Late September: Empire, Ambrosia, Mutsu (Crispin)

• October: Red Delicious, Ida Red, Wild Pink

Bonus for parents: After apple picking, stop by their winery for award-winning ciders and fruit wines.

4. Pingle’s Farm Market (Hampton)

👉 pinglesfarmmarket.com
It’s more than apple picking — the Harvest Festival is on now! 🎉 Families can enjoy wagon rides, farm activities, a corn maze, and of course, fresh apple picking. Great for turning your orchard visit into a full-day adventure.

5. Watson Farms (Bowmanville)

👉 watsonfarms.ca
This family-friendly farm has pick-your-own apples plus other goodies in season. Currently picking:

• Ginger Gold

• Honeycrisp

• Plus beans and even late strawberries on weekends 🍓

A fun “mix-and-match” spot if your family wants more than apples.

6. Brooks Farms (Mount Albert – just outside Durham)

👉 brooksfarms.com
Worth the short drive! Brooks is known for its fun farm attractions, playland, and seasonal events. Add apple picking to the mix, and you’ve got a perfect outing for kids who need a little extra adventure.

✅ Takeaway: Whether you’re after early-season Ginger Golds, classic McIntosh, or the ever-popular Honeycrisp, September in Durham Region offers plenty of orchards for fresh air, family fun, and a bushel of memories.

Sales hold steady, prices dip, and inventory levels continue to give buyers the upper hand.

By the Numbers: September at a Glance

• Total Sales: 5,211 (+2.3% YoY, –14.6% MoM)

• Average Selling Price: $1,022,143 (–5.2% YoY, –2.8% MoM)

• New Listings: Up 9.4% YoY, down 20.3% MoM

• Active Listings: 27,495 (+22.4% YoY, –9% MoM)

• Sales-to-New Listings Ratio: ~37%

• Days on Market:

  • Property DOM: 41 days

  • Listing DOM: 30 days

• Months of Inventory: ~5 months — favouring buyers

🧠 Top Takeaway:

August showed stable sales but continued price softness, with steady inventory keeping the market tilted in favour of buyers—even as demand remains consistent.

What's happening locally? Durham & Toronto Market Insights

Every city/town is unique as are the communities within them. Scroll through to find your town.

📸 Segment Snapshot

📉Economic & Construction Insights

• Bank of Canada Watch: With the next rate decision on September 17, all eyes are on upcoming inflation data to guide policy direction. Opinions vary on whether the central bank will raise or cut its 2.75% rate.

• Building Activity Slowing: New housing starts surged 4% July-over-July overall in Canada, but Ontario continues to lag. Windsor recorded 25% fewer starts in H1 2025 versus 2024—and Toronto’s figures fell dramatically.
  

🏠 What’s Changing — and What’s Not

1. Affordability Still a Focus: Prices are easing YoY, but many buyers still face monthly affordability challenges—even in a more liquid market.
   

2. Inventory Remains Elevated: With five months of supply, buyers have ample choice, though market activity remains measured.
   

3. Construction Slowdown Looms: Decreased housing starts in Ontario may tighten future supply—an important insight for strategic buyers or long-term investors.
   

4. Interest Rate Uncertainty Ahead: Inflation data due mid-September could sway BoC decisions, impacting mortgage cost expectations.

⚖️ Buyers vs. Sellers: What’s the Game Plan?

For Buyers:

• You’ve got room to navigate—no need to rush or overpay.

• Stay informed about rate movements ahead of the September decision.

• Low construction today may mean fewer new choices down the road—act when ready.

For Sellers:

• Price competitively—don’t cut too late chasing correction.

• Professional valuation remain important

• Let’s align your timing with market trends and local dynamics—especially in areas like Durham, where inventory remains balanced.

🔮 Quick Verdict

📞Need a Customized Buying or Selling Strategy?

Whether you’re ready to act or just assessing, now is the time for informed moves. Let’s collaborate to create a strategy tailored to your goals and market timing.

👉 Reach out for a personalized consultation

SOURCES: TRREB, Canadian Mortgage Trends, CMP, Bank of Canada, CBC, Todayville, cmhc-schl.gc.ca, TD Economics, RBC

Sales hold steady, prices dip, and inventory levels continue to give buyers the upper hand.

By the Numbers: September at a Glance

• Total Sales: 5,211 (+2.3% YoY, –14.6% MoM)

• Average Selling Price: $1,022,143 (–5.2% YoY, –2.8% MoM)

• New Listings: Up 9.4% YoY, down 20.3% MoM

• Active Listings: 27,495 (+22.4% YoY, –9% MoM)

• Sales-to-New Listings Ratio: ~37%

• Days on Market:

  • Property DOM: 41 days

  • Listing DOM: 30 days

• Months of Inventory: ~5 months — favouring buyers

🧠 Top Takeaway:

August showed stable sales but continued price softness, with steady inventory keeping the market tilted in favour of buyers—even as demand remains consistent.

What's happening locally? Durham & Toronto Market Insights

Every city/town is unique as are the communities within them. Scroll through to find your town.

📸 Segment Snapshot

📉Economic & Construction Insights

• Bank of Canada Watch: With the next rate decision on September 17, all eyes are on upcoming inflation data to guide policy direction. Opinions vary on whether the central bank will raise or cut its 2.75% rate.

• Building Activity Slowing: New housing starts surged 4% July-over-July overall in Canada, but Ontario continues to lag. Windsor recorded 25% fewer starts in H1 2025 versus 2024—and Toronto’s figures fell dramatically.
  

🏠 What’s Changing — and What’s Not

1. Affordability Still a Focus: Prices are easing YoY, but many buyers still face monthly affordability challenges—even in a more liquid market.
   

2. Inventory Remains Elevated: With five months of supply, buyers have ample choice, though market activity remains measured.
   

3. Construction Slowdown Looms: Decreased housing starts in Ontario may tighten future supply—an important insight for strategic buyers or long-term investors.
   

4. Interest Rate Uncertainty Ahead: Inflation data due mid-September could sway BoC decisions, impacting mortgage cost expectations.

⚖️ Buyers vs. Sellers: What’s the Game Plan?

For Buyers:

• You’ve got room to navigate—no need to rush or overpay.

• Stay informed about rate movements ahead of the September decision.

• Low construction today may mean fewer new choices down the road—act when ready.

For Sellers:

• Price competitively—don’t cut too late chasing correction.

• Professional valuation remain important

• Let’s align your timing with market trends and local dynamics—especially in areas like Durham, where inventory remains balanced.

🔮 Quick Verdict

📞Need a Customized Buying or Selling Strategy?

Whether you’re ready to act or just assessing, now is the time for informed moves. Let’s collaborate to create a strategy tailored to your goals and market timing.

👉 Reach out for a personalized consultation

SOURCES: TRREB, Canadian Mortgage Trends, CMP, Bank of Canada, CBC, Todayville, cmhc-schl.gc.ca, TD Economics, RBC

If you’re considering a move in the last half of 2025 getting expert insight into the market is a must so this post is for you.

RE/MAX has come out with their annual Fall market update. It not only recaps year-to-date for the Canadian real estate market and highlights communities like Durham Region, but it offers a prediction into what RE/MAX expects to happen by years end. 

While our team is with Sutton Group we believe information is power for our clients and the RE/MAX perspective is worth taking a look at. That said, don’t let the headlines dictate your move. Timing the market is full of potential landmines. Before making any decisions speak to an expert and get on-the-ground insights about your market and your situation. Need help? Contact us.

In the meantime lets see what RE/MAX has to say:

Canadian Real Estate Market Year-to-Date (2025)

• Average home price (Jan 1–Jul 3): $900,089, marking a 3.7 % drop year-over-year.

• Sales volume (Jan 1–Jul 31): 4,999 units, down 11.1 % year-over-year.

• New listings (Jan 1–Jul 31): 13,425, a 14.4 % increase year-over-year.

What’s Ahead for the Rest of 2025

• Average price is projected to fall 5 %, landing around $855,085 by year-end.

• Sales are expected to decline a further 3 %.

• This confirms a buyer’s market nationwide, with inventory climbing and demand softening.

Nationwide, RE/MAX expects the national average home price to slide by 6.5 % and sales to dip by 5 % by year-end. Inventory surges in Ontario and BC are gradually shifting these areas into buyer-favored territory.

Key Takeaways: Canada at a Glance

1. Buyers hold the leverage. Rising inventory and falling prices give purchasers more negotiating power.

2. Prices dipping but regionally varied. Ontario and BC see declines, while Atlantic Canada and the Prairies hold firm or even rise.

3. Shifting buyer profile. First-time buyers now tend to be older (late 20s to 40s), many turning to family help, co-ownership, or strong savings to get in the game..

4. Sellers adjusting. Expect more realistic pricing, strategic staging, and conditional offers as new market norms.

5. Falling rates fuel optimism. Inventory up + affordability improving may attract cautious buyers back into the market.

Bottom line: Across Canada, the real estate market is tilting in favour of informed and prepared buyers, while sellers who align with current realities will still find success.

Focus: Durham Region

Here's how Durham Region is shaping up:

• Avg. price (Jan 1–Jul 3): $900,089—a 3.7 % drop from last year.

• Sales (Jan 1–Jul 31): 4,999 units, down 11.1 %.

• Listings: 13,425, up 14.4 %.

• Year-end forecast:

  • Price: –5 %, projecting to $855,085.

  • Sales: –3 %.

  • Market type: Firmly a buyer’s market.

Developments in late summer/early fall show continued balance:

• Balanced market conditions, with buyers seeing more options and homes staying on market longer.

• Inventory nearing 2009 highs, sales down sharply, homes generally selling below list price—especially in southern Durham.

• Average September sale price: $842,615 (down 5.8 % year-over-year), with sale-to-list ratio around 98.3 %.

• Months of inventory: About 5.6 months, indicating sufficient supply for current demand.

Durham Region Takeaway

Buyers have the upper hand—with more choices and less urgency in bidding wars. Sellers must price smart, time thoughtfully, and stand out in a crowded landscape. Proper preparation and local strategy are key for anyone looking to transact by year’s end.

Final Word:

For buyers, now is a moment of opportunity—leverage the extra inventory and negotiate smartly. Sellers? Align with the market, focus on presentation and pricing, and get the help of a seasoned agent to stand out.

GET THE HELP YOU NEED 👉 CONTACT US

SOURCES: RE/MAX Canada, Narcity, Ceros, renxhomes.ca, REMINET, Yahoo Finance, John Owen

Don’t be fooled by the headlines. Let us give you the whole picture. Sales are heating up, but inventory remains elevated—buyers still hold the advantage.

By the Numbers: July at a Glance

• Total Sales: 6,100 (+10.9% YoY, –2.3% MoM)

• Average Selling Price: $1,051,719 (–5.5% YoY, –4.5% MoM)

• New Listings: 17,613 (+5.7% YoY, –11.2% MoM)

• Active Listings: 30,215 (+26.1% YoY, –4.4% MoM)

• Sales-to-New Listings Ratio: ~35%

• Days on Market:

  • Property DOM: 41 days

  • Listing DOM: 30 days

• Months of Inventory: 4.95 months — a balanced market with a slight buyer tilt

🧠 Top Takeaway:

July delivered the strongest home sales for the month since 2021, but high inventory kept the market balanced—leaning in favour of buyers.

What's happening locally? Durham & Toronto Market Insights

Every city/town is unique as are the communities within them. Scroll through to find your town.

Segment Insights

📉 Economic & Rate Context

• BoC Rate: Held at 2.75%, with global economic uncertainty and trade tensions continuing to weigh on policy decisions.

• Macro Observations: Housing remains a key economic driver. Cuts to interest rates would support stronger sales, but affordability is gradually improving as prices soften.

🏠 What’s Changing — and What’s Not

1. Sales Are Gaining Momentum: July sales were the most robust for the month in four years, showing renewed buyer activity.

2. Prices Continue to Cool: Average prices are still down year-over-year, improving affordability.

3. Inventory Remains Elevated: More listings mean choice for buyers—and leverage in negotiations.

4. Segment Trends Differ: Condos remain strongly buyer-friendly, while demand for detached homes and suburban areas shows stability.

⚖️ Buyers vs. Sellers: Who Holds the Edge?

For Buyers:

• Enjoy expanded choices and improved pricing—particularly in the condo market.

• Entry-level detached homes are active, but still offer room for negotiation.

• With possible rate cuts ahead, locking in financing sooner may be smart.

For Sellers:

• Entry-level properties remain in demand; € ensure proper presentation and pricing.

• Larger or luxury listings may require more time to sell—strategic marketing is essential.

• Partner with an agent who can position your home effectively in this nuanced market.

🔮 Quick Verdict

📞 Need Strategy, Not Guesswork?

July’s market shows more activity—but high inventory means buyers have choices and sellers must be smart. Whether you're ready to act or gathering intel, let’s collaborate and build your tailored strategy.

👉 Reach out for your personalized consultation

SOURCES:  TRREB, Zoocasa, Global News, Sotheby's Residences Group, Storeys, GlobeNewswire, GTA Chronicle

Inventory remains elevated while price trends stabilize—here’s what’s moving this month.

🔍 By the Numbers: June at a Glance

• Total Sales: 6,243 (–2.4% YoY, +0.0% MoM)

• Average Selling Price: $1,101,691 (–5.4% YoY, –1.7% MoM)

• New Listings: ~19,839 (+14% YoY, –) +15.8% over May

• Active Listings: 31,603 (+30.8% YoY, +2.1% MoM)—the highest in 15 years

• Sales-to-New Listings Ratio: 35% (calculated from sales and listings provided)

• Property DOM: 42 days (up from May)

• Listing DOM: 30 days (up from May)

• Months of Inventory: 5.06 months—pushing the GTA into a buyer’s market

Source: TRREB June Market Watch Report

🧠 Top Takeaway:
June showed stabilizing prices and consistent sales, but record-high inventory across the GTA has shifted the market firmly in favour of buyers—with over five months of supply.

What's happening locally? Durham & Toronto Market Insights

Every city/town is unique as are the communities within them. Scroll through to find your town.

📉 Rates & Financing Update

• BoC Policy Rate: Held steady at 2.75% on June 4, citing persistent economic uncertainty and trade tensions

• What’s Ahead: Economists expect at least two additional rate cuts later this year—possibly targeting 2.25% by year-end nesto.ca,TD Stories, Reuters.

• Fixed Mortgage Rates: Trending higher recently, with select 3–5 yr rates around 3.9%–4.0%

• Variable Rates: Prime remains at 4.95%—no change for now Facebook+8Bank of Canada+8Ratehub.ca+8.

Sources: nesto.ca,TD Stories, Reuters,NerdWallet, Bank of Canada,Ratehub.ca

🏠 What’s Changing — and What’s Not

1. Sales Plateau – After increasing through spring, June sales held steady, now just below last year’s levels.

2. Inventory Peaks – Active listings have surpassed 31,600—the highest in 15 years—granting buyers significantly more options.

3. Market Segmentation:

   • Condos: ~6.95 months inventory—clearly a buyer’s market.

   • Detached Homes: ~4.7 months—still balanced.

   • Townhomes/Semis: Remain balanced.

   • Durham Region: Balanced at ~3.58 months overall and 3.64 for detached.

   • City of Toronto: Buyer-favored, with overall ~5.06 months and condo apartments at ~6.9 months.

4. Economic Backdrop – Trade uncertainty continues to hold rates steady; inflation remains marginally above target

Sources:  Toronto Regional Real Estate Board.

⚖️ Buyers vs. Sellers: Who's in Control?

For Buyers:

• Increased inventory and cooling prices translate into more choice and negotiation power.

• Entry-level detached homes and townhomes are attracting interest; condos offer deep leverage.

• With rate cuts expected, securing a rate sooner could be wise.

For Sellers:

• Entry-level homes still command attention—focus on staging and pricing.

• Larger homes may stay on the market longer; presentation and promotion are key.

• Work with an agent to develop a strategic plan in this shifting market.

🔮 Quick Verdict:

📞 Thinking of Buying or Selling?

With stockpiles of listings and a potential for rate cuts on the horizon, expert guidance is now more crucial than ever. Let’s create a plan tailored to your goals—and timing.

👉 Connect with us for a personalized consultation

MORE MARKET INSIGHTS (Markham/Stouffville & Port Hope/Cobourg)

📊 Market Snapshot

• Total Sales: 6,244 (-13.3% YoY, +11.5% MoM)

• Average Selling Price: $1,120,879 (-4% YoY, +1.2% MoM)

• New Listings: 21,819 (+14% YoY, +15.8% MoM)

• Active Listings: 30,964 (+41.5% YoY, +13.1% MoM) — the highest in nearly 25 years

• Sales-to-New Listings Ratio: 38%

• Property Days on Market (PDOM): 39 days

• Listing Days on Market (LDOM): 25 days

• Months of Inventory (MOI): 4.96 — indicating a balanced market leaning towards buyers
  

🧠 Top Takeaway

May 2025 marked a significant shift in the GTA housing market. While sales saw a modest month-over-month increase, the surge in active listings to a 25-year high has tilted the market dynamics. With a sales-to-new listings ratio of 38% and nearly 5 months of inventory, buyers are gaining more negotiating power, especially in certain segments.

What's happening locally? Durham & Toronto Market Insights

Every city/town is unique as are the communities within them. Scroll through to find your town.

🏘️ Segment Insights

• Condos: With over 7 months of inventory, condos, particularly 1-bedroom units, remain firmly in a buyer's market. They account for 34% of active listings.

• Detached Homes: Representing 44% of inventory, detached homes have 4.6 months of inventory, indicating a balanced market.

• Townhomes & Semis: These segments continue to stay balanced, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

• Regional Highlights:

  • Durham Region: Balanced market with 3.25 months of inventory.

  • City of Toronto: Leaning towards a buyer's market with 5.23 months of inventory; condo apartments at 7.42 months.

💰 Mortgage & Financing Update

On June 4th, the Bank of Canada held its benchmark rate steady at 2.75% for the third consecutive time, citing economic uncertainties stemming from global trade tensions. Fixed mortgage rates have seen slight increases, with RBC raising its 3, 4, and 5-year fixed rates by 5 basis points.

🧭 Guidance for Buyers & Sellers

Buyers:

• More Options: The surge in listings provides a broader selection. Take your time, conduct thorough due diligence, and don't rush decisions.

• Upgraders: Ensure you have a clear understanding of the financial implications of selling and buying in the current market.

• Downsizers: Smaller detached homes and townhouses are seeing increased competition as they align better with buyer purchasing power.

Sellers:

• Preparation is Key: With increased competition, focus on the 3 Ps: Preparation, Price, and Promotion.

• Entry-Level Homes: Still in demand.

• Larger Detached Homes: Be prepared for a longer selling window. Strategic pricing and marketing are essential.
  

🔮 Market Outlook

The GTA housing market is experiencing a transition. While certain segments remain competitive, the overall increase in inventory provides buyers with more leverage. Sellers need to adapt to the changing dynamics by ensuring their properties are well-prepared and competitively priced.

Need personalized advice? Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring your options, we're here to help you navigate the evolving market landscape.

👉 Contact Us for a consultation tailored to your needs.

Call Ben at 905-995-23372 or Jim at 905-409-9967

MORE MARKET INSIGHTS (Markham/Stouffville & Port Hope/Cobourg)

Updated for 2025

Hey foodies and adventurers! Brian here, one of my favourite foods is ribs. Sauced up and fall off the bone. I don't have them often but I almost always get some at one of Durham Region's Summer Ribfests. If you're a barbecue lover, you're in for a treat because Durham Region is heating up with its finger-licking, lip-smacking RibFest events now! 

Durham Region's RibFest Events feature a mix of tantalizing barbecue and craft beer vendors from across the region and beyond. In addition to ribs and BBQ, many offer a wide array of food options, a midway experience full of rides and carnival games, craft beer options, and even shuttle services to get to and from the grounds.

Grab your napkins, mark your calendars, and get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the region's finest rib festivals. Let's dive in!

📍 Pickering RibFest

• 📅 Dates: June 14–16, 2025

• 📍 Location: Esplanade Park, 1 The Esplanade, Pickering

• 🕛 Time: 12:00 PM daily

• 🎶 Highlights: Live performances from bands like The Spiral Theory and Kickstart Band.

• 🍗 Ribbers: Bone Daddy's, Sticky Fingers, Gator BBQ, Camp 31, Hawgs Gone Wild, Billy Bones, Silver Bullet

• 🎟️ Admission: Free

• 🌐 More Info: pickeringribfest.ca

📍 Whitby RibFest PLUS

• 📅 Dates: July 11–13, 2025

• 📍 Location: Victoria Fields, 345 Watson St W, Whitby

• 🎶 Highlights: Kick off the weekend with "A Concert for Our Community" featuring Big Wreck on Friday, July 11. This ticketed event includes live music, food trucks, vendors, and one ribber inside the concert area. Gates open at 5:00 PM, show starts at 6:00 PM .

• 🍗 Ribbers: Five ribbers available in the Public Rib Zone on Friday (no ticket required), with the full lineup on Saturday and Sunday.

• 🎟️ Admission: Friday concert: $49.99; Saturday & Sunday: Free

• 🌐 More Info: whitbyribfest.comshowpass.com+3whitbyribfest.com+3whitbyribfest.com+3whitbyribfest.com+1whitbyribfest.com+1instagram.com+2facebook.com+2whitbyribfest.com+2

📍 Clarington RibFest

• 📅 Status: Cancelled for 2025

• 📍 Location: Previously held at Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex, Bowmanville

• ℹ️ Note: The event is on hiatus due to venue issues but hopes to return in the future .

📍 Oshawa RibFest

• 📅 Dates: TBA

• 📍 Location: Lakeview Park, 55 Lakeview Park Ave, Oshawa

• ℹ️ Note: Details for 2025 are yet to be announced. Stay tuned for updates.

So there you have it, folks – a rundown of Durham Region's sizzling RibFest events! Whether you're a local foodie or just seeking delightful experiences, these festivals are a smokey and sweet BBQ journey you don't want to miss. Plan your visit, bring your family and your appetite, and get ready to feast on some of the best ribs around. Happy RibFest-ing!