Why December is full of opportunities in the real estate market

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December 16, 2024

Why December is full of opportunities in the real estate market

December is often seen as a quiet month for many sectors, but in the real estate market, it often proves to be a strategic period rich in opportunities. With holiday preparations in full swing, the market continues to move, attracting both motivated buyers and strategic sellers.

Historically, this time of year offers a unique climate where supply and demand dynamics adjust, creating opportunities rarely found in other months. With recent sales growth and the anticipation of lower interest rates, December 2024 is shaping up to be a key month for successfully navigating the market.

Let’s take a closer look at current trends and the outlook for 2025, so that you can make the most of this strategic period, whether you’re buying or selling.

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The real estate market in December: a historical overview
How is the current real estate market faring?
Outlook for 2025

The real estate market in December: a historical overview

Looking back over the trends of recent years, one constant stands out: December is not a month of slowdown for the Montreal real estate market. Quite the opposite, in fact, with sustained activity and dynamism, December is a strategic time for real estate transactions.

A business that defies seasonality

Contrary to the idea that winter puts the brakes on the market, statistics show that buyers and sellers remain active in December. Sales during this month are often close to the levels seen in autumn, showing that market players’ motivation does not wane as the festive season approaches. This resilience can be explained by several factors:

Buyers want to close before the end of the year, whether for tax reasons or to start the new year in their new home.
Sellers listing their properties in December are often serious and motivated, which speeds up the decision-making process.

The table shows that, with the exception of the year 2023, December systematically registers more sales than the following January. Although this is not a month with the highest level of activity, as spring months can be, the market is not weakening and offers unique opportunities, with buyers and sellers often quick in their decision-making to conclude transactions before the end of the year.

Prices reflecting a stable market

Another indicator of this vitality is the stability of median prices in December, reflecting continuing demand. Historically, property values do not show a marked decline at this time, confirming that December is far from being a “low season”. On the contrary, the robustness of prices attests to the fact that buyers see this period as an opportunity, rather than a brake.

As in previous years, prices in the Montreal market are expected to continue to rise in December, guaranteeing sellers an ever-increasing capital gain on the sale of their property.

An opportunity for buyers and sellers

December is often a month of strategic transactions. Motivated buyers take advantage of a slightly less competitive market to explore unique opportunities. For sellers, it’s an ideal time to capture the attention of serious buyers, ready to take action quickly. What’s more, the proximity of the holidays adds an emotional dimension, prompting some to finalize their project before the New Year.

Historically, December remains a key period for the Montreal real estate market. Far from being a month of calm, it is characterized by constant activity, a balance between supply and demand, and a dynamic that offers unique opportunities for buyers and sellers alike. Whether you’re looking to close a deal or make a fresh start, December is proving that it has everything to appeal to market players.

How is the current real estate market faring?

November 2024 confirmed the positive momentum of the Montreal real estate market, offering a clear overview of current trends. Despite what is often perceived as a quieter autumn period, statistics show that real estate activity remains buoyant.

Sales growth and median prices

In November 2024, the market recorded a 40% increase in sales compared with November 2023. This sharp rise reflects continuing buyer interest, fuelled by favourable economic conditions and an expanded offering. With a total of 2,063 transactions, Montréal proves that demand is not weakening, even as the end of the year approaches.

Median prices on the rise

Median property prices continue to rise:

– Single-family homes reached a median price of $625,000, up 8% on the previous year.

– Condominiums remain a popular choice, with a median price of $477,000, marking a 6% increase.

– Plexes (2 to 5 units), always popular with investors, have a median price of $836,000, also up 8%.

These figures testify to the strength of the Montreal market, where every property category continues to attract a diverse audience, from families to investors.

An expanding offering

New listings rose by 10% in November 2024, offering buyers a wider choice. With 2,080 new properties on the market, sellers are responding to sustained demand, while stimulating an environment where opportunities are multiplying.

Impressive sales volume

Total sales volume reached $1.09 billion, a spectacular 56% increase on November 2023. This figure illustrates not only the strength of the market, but also the steady rise in value of Montreal real estate, making it even more attractive to investors looking for stable, profitable investments.

A solid, balanced market

These statistics confirm that the Montreal real estate market is not weakening. On the contrary, it continues to offer fertile ground for transactions, supported by robust demand, rising prices and diversified supply. With December shaping up to be just as promising, this momentum suggests a year-end and early 2025 marked by opportunities for buyers and sellers alike.

Read our monthly analysis of real estate statistics on our blog :

Outlook for 2025

As 2024 draws to a close, projections for 2025 look promising for the Montreal real estate market. Building on the momentum observed at the end of the year, several signals point to continued growth and activity.

A recovery driven by falling interest rates

The recent fall in interest rates has given the market new impetus. This key factor should further stimulate buyers, especially first-time buyers and investors, by making financing more accessible. As real estate leader Kyle Shapcott points out:

“The fall in rates creates a favorable environment for those who were hesitant to take the plunge. We expect this trend to continue and further energize the market in the first quarter of 2025.”

Kyle Shapcott

Buyers still present

Analysis of the latest data shows that demand remains strong, underpinned by growing interest in condominiums and single-family homes. Investors, meanwhile, continue to favor plexes for their potential rental profitability and stability.

A resilient, balanced market

The outlook for 2025 suggests a resilient market, capable of maintaining a sufficiently broad offering to meet the varied expectations of buyers. New construction, particularly in booming areas like Sud-Ouest and Villeray, will reinforce this balance.

The importance of strategic planning

With an improving economic climate and positive forecasts for 2025, it’s crucial for buyers and sellers alike to plan their actions strategically.

“2025 will be a year of opportunity. Whether you want to buy or sell, a thoughtful and informed approach will be essential to maximize your advantages in the marketplace.”

Kyle Shapcott

A favorable climate to start the year

With prices stabilizing, a wider range of products on offer and advantageous financing conditions, 2025 is shaping up to be an auspicious year. The first few months of the year will be an ideal time to position yourself, whether for a strategic purchase or an optimized sale.

Conclusion

December is not only a month of festivities, it’s also a strategic time for the Montreal real estate market. Historically active, this month offers unique opportunities for buyers and sellers thanks to a balanced market climate and favorable conditions.

With demand still buoyant, prices stable and interest rates falling, late 2024 and early 2025 look promising. Whether you’re considering investing, buying your first property or selling, it’s essential to be well informed and plan your actions to make the most of this dynamic market.

As Kyle Shapcott points out: “The Montreal real estate market currently offers incredible potential. With the right strategies, now is the perfect time to take action and make your plans a reality.”

Stay tuned for more analysis, advice and opportunities, and don’t hesitate to contact us to help you with your real estate needs. Together, we can make your ambitions a reality in 2025!

If you’re planning a real estate project, contact our team of real estate brokers in Montreal.

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