🏙️ Toronto Market Snapshot – August 2025

According to the latest TRREB Market Watch, average prices across the GTA are still adjusting:

• Detached Homes: $1,312,240 (–6.9% YoY)
• Semi-Detached: $1,153,483 (–4.9% YoY)
• Townhouses: $946,395 (–5.0% YoY)
• Condo Apartments: $642,195 (–6.1% YoY)mw2508

With sales up slightly but listings up much more, buyers are firmly in the driver’s seat. But the big question remains: are condos or freeholds the better deal right now?

🏢 The Case for Condos

Condos remain the most affordable entry point in Toronto real estate, with average prices sitting just over $640K. That’s nearly half the cost of a detached home.

Pros of Buying a Condo in 2025:

• Lower purchase price: smaller down payment and land transfer tax.
• Lifestyle: urban locations, modern amenities, lower maintenance.
• Investor potential: condos are still the top rental stock, especially downtown.

Challenges to Keep in Mind:

• Condo fees can impact monthly affordability.
• Resale values are adjusting — August saw a –6.1% YoY dip.
• Oversupply in some pockets can create downward price pressure.

🏡 The Case for Freehold Homes

Freeholds (detached, semis, towns) are still more expensive, but price declines have been steeper, especially for detached homes.

Why Freeholds Look Attractive in 2025:

• Bigger price drops: Detached down almost 7% YoY, creating opportunity for move-up buyers.
• Long-term appreciation: Historically stronger growth than condos.
• No condo fees: More control over property and expenses.

Challenges to Keep in Mind:

• Higher upfront costs (bigger down payment + closing).
• More upkeep, especially for older homes.
• Monthly carrying costs are heavier — even with softer prices.

🔎 Who Should Buy What in 2025?

• First-Time Buyers: Condos are still the practical entry point. Affordability and rental potential make them smart for starting out.
• Investors: Condos offer reliable rental demand, but freehold investors may find better long-term appreciation at today’s adjusted prices.
• Move-Up Buyers: Detached and semis are finally within reach thanks to price softening. Selling a starter home and trading up makes sense now.
• Lifestyle Buyers: If location, amenities, or lower maintenance matter more, condos still win. If space and independence are top of list, freeholds rule.

📈 Our Take as Local Experts

The better deal depends on your goals. Condos are ideal for entry and rental opportunities, while freeholds — especially detached — are presenting the best value we’ve seen in years for families looking to trade up.

As the market stays well-supplied, buyers have leverage in both segments. The key is pairing smart financing with a strategy tailored to your next stage of life.

✅ Next Steps

Thinking about whether a Toronto condo or freehold home is right for you? We can run the numbers together, show you neighbourhood-specific trends, and map out a plan for your purchase or sale.

👉 Book your 30-minute Buyer or Seller consult with Amir & Aleks Realty today.