Ottawa new home sales dip in September as market uncertainty continues

Ottawa Construction News staff writer

New home sales in Ottawa slowed in September, falling 13.6 per cent compared to the same month last year, as market uncertainty continues to affect both builders and buyers.

There were 287 new homes sold in September, a four per cent decrease from the 299 sales recorded in August. According to a new report from the Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association (GOHBA) and PMA Brethour Realty Group, year-to-date sales for 2025 are now at 2,652 homes, nearly identical to the 2,660 sold by this time in 2024.

Jason Burggraaf, GOHBA’s executive director, said the slowdown reflects hesitation in the market.

“Between tariffs, the lack of GST rebate for first time home buyers, and general affordability pressures, there is a lot of hesitation in the market right now which makes it hard to gain momentum,” Burggraaf said in a statement.

The report shows a significant variation in sales over the past five years, with a high of 343 sales in September 2021 and a low of 88 in September 2022.

Geographically, Ottawa’s south end saw the most activity, accounting for 40 per cent of all sales in September. The west end followed with 25 per cent, the east end with 23 per cent, and the central area with 11 per cent.

Townhomes were the most popular product type, making up 55 per cent of all sales. Single-detached homes accounted for 31 per cent of sales, while condo towns (10 per cent) and condo apartments (4 per cent) made up the remainder. The report notes this data shows the “sustained strength of the family-oriented townhouse”.