The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is at a turning point. Affordability challenges, housing supply shortages, and growing traffic congestion continue to shape the way people live, work, and invest in the region. But what’s ahead for 2025?
The much-anticipated 2025 Market Outlook and Year in Review report explores the key trends driving the real estate market and the solutions needed to keep the GTA growing.
What to Expect in 2025
A shift in market conditions is coming:
- More home sales: Lower borrowing costs are projected to drive 76,000 transactions in 2025.
- Gradual price increases: The average home price is expected to rise to $1,147,000, signalling a return to market stability.
- Economic uncertainty: External factors, such as potential U.S. tariffs, could impact consumer confidence and housing demand.
Hosted by TRREB President, Elechia Barry-Sproule, this year’s Market Outlook and Year in Review event broke records with over 700 real estate professionals and industry experts attending.
During the event, Jason Mercer, TRREB Chief Market Analyst and Ipsos Senior Vice President Sean Simpson took to the stage to present market forecasts and consumer polling data that sheds light on trends shaping our region.
“Healthcare is almost always the number one issue, and when it isn’t something is going on. At the moment, housing has surpassed healthcare as the number one issue in Canada,” said Sean Simpson.
“We don’t know what’s going to happen over the next 30 years in terms of U.S. tariffs, so we have to take in a greater account of the risks involved impacting people’s demand for housing,” added Jason Mercer.
Traffic Gridlock: A Growing Challenge
It’s not just about how much housing is available—it’s about where it is. TRREB CEO John DiMichele provided new insights on how traffic congestion is impacting productivity, mobility, and quality of life across the GTA. Transit-oriented development and better infrastructure planning are critical to keeping the region moving.
“Traffic congestion and housing affordability go hand in hand,” said John DiMichele. “Excessive fees and administrative roadblocks are holding back much-needed housing, which is only making the affordability crisis worse.”
Community Safety and the Impact on Housing
Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw shared details of the critical work the police service is doing to keep our neighbourhoods safe. He also outlined valuable best practices to keep REALTORS® safe.
“Vetting clients and meeting them in public places first, keeping your phone charged and within easy reach, avoiding conducting home tours alone when possible, and making a shareable schedule to let colleagues know where you are,” said Chief Demkiw.
Affordability and Housing Supply: The Pressure is On
For years, GTA residents have been grappling with affordability issues, and the pressure continue to mount. High development charges, rising taxes, and complex approval processes are delaying new housing projects and increasing costs.
The event also launched our new campaign: fairhometaxes.ca, encouraging support for fair taxation on Ontario homes and a stronger future for our communities.
Dan Mader, Founding Partner at Loyalist Public Affairs joined us to discuss the issues most important to voters in the provincial election.
The Path Forward: A Collective Effort
Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between governments, industry leaders, and communities. TRREB emphasizes the need for:
- Building more “missing-middle” housing, including townhomes, duplexes, and low-rise multi-unit buildings.
- Investing in transit-friendly developments to ease congestion and improve mobility.
- Reducing excessive development fees that slow down housing projects.
Get the Insights
For a deeper look at what’s ahead for the GTA housing market, explore our 2025 Market Outlook and Year in Review digital digest.
Or watch the full event now.