NEWS RELEASE BARRIE & DISTRICT ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS ************************* The June 2021 sales information is in, and residential property sales recorded through the Matrix System for the Barrie and District Association of Realtors (BDAR) region showed a year-over-year decline in sales activity however, prices continue to climb.
The sales activity decline is primarily due to the delayed spring market experienced in 2020. The below statistics indicate a slight month-over-month cool down however, the numbers are still significant as there has been 60.4 per cent more sales in Simcoe County in the first six months of 2021 compared to the same timeframe last year.
939 residential units were sold in Simcoe County last month – a 11.9 per cent decrease from May 2021. During the same time a year ago (May 2020 to June 2020), there was a 76.0 per cent increase in the number of units sold.
The average price of residential units sold last month was $803,919 – a 0.6 per cent increase from May 2021. This growth was less than the month-over-month change in average price a year ago (+7.0 per cent).
City of Barrie
286 units were sold last month within the City of Barrie, which was 22.3 per cent less than the number of units sold the month prior. A year ago, the number of units sold between June and May grew 58.8 per cent.
The average price of units sold within Barrie during June 2021 was $747,533. This was 0.6 per cent greater than the average price during May 2021. In comparison, the average price of units sold between June 2020 and May 2020 increased 6.6 per cent.
City of Barrie – Apartments and condos
41 apartment and condo units were sold in Barrie last month – 24.1 per cent less than the number of units sold in May 2021. The average price of apartment and condo units sold in the City of Barrie last month was $535,734 – 8.6 per cent more than the average price in May 2021.
Simcoe County excluding Barrie
In Simcoe County Excluding Barrie last month, 653 units were sold. This was 6.4 per cent less than the number of units sold during May 2021. At the same time a year ago, there was an 84.7 per cent increase in the number of units sold outside of Barrie.
The average price of units sold in the areas outside of Barrie last month was $828,614. This was 0.1 per cent less than the month prior. Between June 2020 and May 2020, the average price of units sold outside of Barrie increased 6.8 per cent.
Innisfil
64 residential units were sold in Innisfil last month – a 14.7 per cent decrease from May 2021. During the same period a year ago (May 2020 to June 2020), there was a 16.7 per cent increase in the number of units sold. The average price of residential units sold in Innisfil last month was approximately $924,186 – a 20.3 per cent increase from May 2021. This contrasted the decline from last year when the average price declined 0.6 per cent from May to June.
Orillia
66 residential units were sold in Orillia last month – a 7.0 per cent decrease from May 2021. During the same period a year ago (May 2020 to June 2020), there was an 86.7 per cent increase in the number of units sold. The average price of residential units sold in Orillia last month was approximately $628,327 – a 5.9 per cent decrease from May 2021. The average price a year ago increased 14.9 per cent from May to June.
Essa
In Essa last month, 30 residential units were sold. This was 31.8 per cent less than the month prior. During the same period a year ago, there was a 74.1 per cent increase in the number of units sold. The average price of residential units sold in Essa last month was $895,817— a 14.2 per cent increase from May 2021. This time last year, the average price increased 13.5 per cent from May 2020 to June 2020.
Year-to-date (YTD) (June 2021 YTD vs. June 2020 YTD)
All residential homes
Simcoe County
5,813 residential units were sold in Simcoe County during June 2021 Year-To-Date (YTD) (Jan. 1, 2021 – June 30, 2021). This was 60.4 per cent more than what was sold during the same timeframe last year (Jan. 1, 2020 – June 30, 2020). The average price of residential units sold during June 2021 YTD was $773,167. This was 41.5 per cent greater than the average price during the same timeframe last year.
City of Barrie
2,020 units were sold in the City of Barrie during June 2021 YTD. This was a 66.0 per cent growth from the same timeframe last year. This growth was greater than the growth in total Simcoe County (+60.4 per cent).
The average price of units sold within the City of Barrie during June 2021 YTD was $723,739. This was 35.4 per cent more than the same timeframe last year. This growth was less than what was seen in the total Simcoe region (+41.5 per cent). During June 2021 YTD, Barrie accounted for 34.7 per cent of residential properties sold. This was 1.2 share points more than the same timeframe during 2020.
City of Barrie – Apartments and condos
274 apartment and condo units were sold in Barrie during June 2021 YTD – 69.1 per cent more than the number of units sold in June 2020 YTD. The average price of apartment and condo units in the City of Barrie this year so far was $486,572. This was 25 per cent more than the average price during the same timeframe last year.
Simcoe County excluding Barrie
3793 residential units were sold in the areas outside of Barrie during June 2021 YTD. This was 57.6 per cent more than the number of units sold during June 2020 YTD. This growth in number of units sold was less than the growth seen in the total Simcoe region (+60.4 per cent).
The average price of units sold during this time was $799,490. This was 44.7 per cent greater than what was seen during June 2020 YTD. This growth was greater than that of total Simcoe (+41.5 per cent). During June 2021 YTD, Simcoe County excluding Barrie accounted for 65.3 per cent of residential properties sold. This was 1.2 share points less than the same timeframe during 2020.
Innisfil
429 residential units were sold in Innisfil during June 2021 YTD. This was 54.3 per cent more than what was sold during the same timeframe last year (Jan. 1, 2020 – June 30, 2020). The average price of residential units sold in June 2021 YTD was $839,055. This was 53.8 per cent greater than the average price during the same timeframe last year. During this time, Innisfil accounted for 7.4 per cent of sales in Simcoe County – down 0.3 share points from the same timeframe last year.
Orillia
435 residential units were sold in Orillia from the beginning of 2021 to June 30th, 2021. This was 58.2 per cent more than what was sold during the same timeframe last year (Jan. 1, 2020 – June 30, 2020). The average price of residential units sold during June 2021 YTD was $624,874 This was 38.9 per cent greater than the average price during the same timeframe last year. During June 2021 YTD, Orillia accounted for 7.5 per cent of sales in Simcoe County, 0.1 share points more than that of June 2020 YTD.
Essa
264 residential units were sold in Essa during May 2021 YTD. This was 51.7 per cent more than what was sold during the same timeframe last year (January 1st, 2020 – June 30th, 2020). The average price of residential units sold in June 2021 YTD was $787,041. This was 41.1 per cent greater than the average price during the same timeframe last year. During this time, Essa accounted for 4.5 per cent of sales in Simcoe County—down 0.3 share points from the same timeframe last year.
Year-Over-Year (June 2021 vs June 2020)
All residential homes
The Housing Price Index (HPI) showed a 38.5 per cent year-over-year increase between June 2021 and June 2020.
Simcoe County
939 residential units were sold in Simcoe County last month – 12.4 per cent less than the same time last year. As well, the average price of residential units sold was $803,919, which was 38 per cent greater than that of June 2020.
City of Barrie
286 residential units were sold during June 2021 within Barrie. This was 11.7 per cent less than the number of units sold during June 2020. This decline was lesser than that of total Simcoe County (-12.4 per cent).
The average price of residential Barrie units sold during June 2021 was $747,533 – 34.3 per cent greater than the average price of units sold during June 2020. This growth was less than the average-price growth of total Simcoe County (+38.0 per cent). Sales in Barrie accounted for 30.5 per cent of residential sales in Simcoe County last month. This was 0.2 share points more than the same time last year.
City of Barrie – Apartments and condos
41 apartment and condo units were sold in Barrie during June 2021 – 5.1 per cent greater than the number of units sold in June 2020. The average price of apartment and condo units in the City of Barrie in June 2021 was $535,734. This was 37.9 per cent more than the average price during the same time last year.
Simcoe County excluding Barrie
653 residential units were sold outside of Barrie during June 2021, and this was 12.7 per cent less than the number of units sold during June 2020. This decline was slightly greater than the 12.4 per cent decline seen in the total Simcoe region.
The average price of units sold in Simcoe County excluding Barrie last month was $828,614. This was a 39.5 per cent increase in the average price, year-over-year. This growth was greater than what was found in total Simcoe County (+38.0 per cent). Residential property sales outside of Barrie accounted for 69.5 per cent of sales in Simcoe County last month. This was 0.2 share points less than the same time last year.
Innisfil
64 residential units were sold in Innisfil during June 2021, and this was 1.6 per cent more than the number of units sold during June 2020. This growth contrasted the 12.4 per cent decline seen in the total Simcoe region. The average price of units sold in Innisfil last month was approximately $924,186. This was a 64.3 per cent increase in the average price, year-over-year. This growth was greater than what was found in total Simcoe County (+38.0 per cent). Sales in Innisfil accounted for 6.8 per cent of sales in Simcoe County during June 2021. This was 0.9 share points more than Innisfil’s share of sales during the same time last year.
Orillia
66 residential units were sold in Orillia during June 2021, and this was 21.4 per cent less than the number of units sold during June 2020. This decline was greater than the 12.4 per cent decline seen in the total Simcoe region. The average price of units sold in Orillia last month was approximately $628,327. This was a 24.3 per cent increase in the average price, year-over-year. This growth was greater than what was found in total Simcoe County (+38.0 per cent). Orillia’s sales made up 7.0 per cent of sales in Simcoe County. This was 0.8 share points less than the same time last year.
Essa
30 residential units were sold in Essa during June 2021, and this was 36.2 per cent less than the number of units sold during June 2020. This decline was greater than the 12.4 per cent decline seen in the total Simcoe region. The average price of units sold in Essa last month was approximately $895,817. This was a 51.5 per cent increase in the average price, year-over-year. This growth was greater than what was found in total Simcoe County (+38.0 per cent). Sales in Essa accounted for 3.2 per cent of sales in Simcoe County during June 2021. This was 1.2 share points less than Essa’s share of sales during the same time last year.
Q2 2021 statistic release
June 30, 2021 marked the end of Quarter Two (Q2) of 2021, and residential sales information is in with residential property sales recorded through the Matrix System for the Barrie and District Association of Realtors Inc. (BDAR). Q2 2021 (April 1, 2021 – June 30, 2021) sales activity and average price of units sold increased substantially as compared to Q2 2020.
Sales activity in Q2 2021 was much stronger than the same time last year. The trend of Ontarians migrating from the Greater Toronto Area to areas such as Simcoe County has continued into Q2. Both Barrie and Simcoe County Excluding Barrie contributed to this growth.
Average price during Q2 2021 was up 41.4 per cent as compared to Q2 2020. This was driven by a growth in average price inside and outside of Barrie.
Simcoe County
There was a 60.0 per cent increase in units sold compared to Q2 2020 (Q2 2021 with 3184 units sold vs Q2 2020 with 1,990 units sold)
Average price of homes in Simcoe County during Q2 2021 was $792,242. This was a 41.4 per cent growth from the same timeframe last year.
Barrie
The number of sales increased 64.3 per cent in Q2 2021 (1022 units sold) when compared to Q2 2020 (622 units sold).
Home prices within Barrie increased to $738,571, which was a 36.4 per cent increase from Q2 of last year.
Simcoe County excluding Barrie
The number of sales increased 58.0 per cent in Q2 2021 (2162 units sold) when compared to Q2 2020 (1,368 units sold).
Simcoe County excluding Barrie had an average price of $817,612. This was a 43.8 per cent increase from Q2 of 2020.
Innisfil
The number of units sold in Innisfil during Q2 2021 was 233, 71.3 per cent more than the number of units sold in Q2 2020.
The average price of units sold in Innisfil during Q2 2021 was $834,625. This was 50.5 per cent greater than the average price of Innisfil units sold during Q2 2020.
Orillia
The number of units sold in Orillia during Q2 2021 was 232. This was 55.7 per cent more than the number of units sold in Q2 2020.
The average price of units sold in Orillia during Q2 2021 was $632,914. This was 32.4 per cent greater than the average price of Orillia units sold during Q2 2020.
Essa
The number of units sold in Essa during Q2 2021 was 137. This was 47.3 per cent more than the number of units sold in Q2 2020.
The average price of units sold in Essa during Q2 2021 was $796,422. This was 43.5 per cent greater than the average price of Essa units sold during Q2 2020.
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
