The average residential sale price in Kawarthas has decreased by 1.9 per cent across all property types between 2024 and 2025 from $718,299 to $704,440. The number of sales transactions decreased by 10 per cent for the same time period (from 1,171 to 1,054). The total number of listings decreased by 1.3 per cent (from 3,202 in 2024 to 3,160 in 2025).
Trends in the Kawartha Lakes Housing Market
Average residential sale prices will increase by one per cent going into 2026, compared to 2025. Sales are anticipated to rise by two per cent going into 2026, compared to 2025. Looking ahead to 2026, Kawartha Lakes will transition to be a balanced market with buyer advantage. The top three neighbourhoods anticipated to be the most desirable in the region in 2026 are Fenelon Falls, Lindsay and Bobcaygeon. Fenelon Falls offers a mix of lifestyle and values likely to become a hot spot for 2026. Lindsay has strong value in Kawartha Lakes, especially for move-up buyers, families and those relocating from high priced markets seeking town amenities and affordability. Bobcaygeon will likely be very desirable in 2026, particularly in the recreational markets offering lots of properties with waterfront access. Single-detached homes are expected to see the strongest demand and sales activity in the region in 2026.
Buying and Selling Trends for homebuyers and sellers looking ahead to 2026:
- First-time Homebuyers are buying properties within a $475,000 to $500,000 range.
- Move Up/Over Homebuyers are buying single-family homes in the range of $725,000 to $775,000.
- Retirees are buying more manageable properties, not ultra-luxury waterfront properties, but smaller than premium detaches homes. They are still looking for good conditions with good locations.
While there is still movement in construction, the starts are behind ambitious municipal and provincial targets, with more predicted to be in the pipeline through 2026 than completed. There may be improvement with a mix of townhomes and single units as the cost and service constraints get addressed.
While price growth may stay modest, 2026 is likely to see stronger transaction counts as buyers become comfortable with the economic uncertainty. With rents being relatively high and rising moderately, there is increased motivation to buy and lock in homeownership when conditions are acceptable. Carrying costs are high, with taxes, insurance and upkeep costs, investors are more wary of general residential rental in lower-amenity regions. The municipality is forecasting a seven per cent increase in property taxes. With rates remaining stable, the first half of 2026 will be a great strategic buying window in Kawartha Lakes. If rates increase, the regional market will remain a choppy, value-driven environment. There is a wider geographic reach with technology because virtual tours and online marketing reduce barriers for buyers outside of the area.
