After several years of rapid price growth, bidding wars, and low inventory, Durham Region’s real estate market looks a little different today. Buyers are seeing more listings, sellers are adjusting expectations, and conversations about whether it’s finally a buyer’s market in Durham are heating up.
For first-time home buyers, this shift could represent a long-awaited window of opportunity – but it also raises new questions. Should you wait for prices to drop further? Is it safer to buy now or hold off? And what does “buyer’s market” actually mean for someone taking their first step into homeownership?
At Bold Group, we help clients navigate these cycles with confidence. Let’s break down what’s really happening across the Durham housing landscape and what first-time buyers should keep in mind when making their move.
What Is a Buyer’s Market, Exactly?
Before diving into local numbers, it helps to understand the basics.
A buyer’s market occurs when there are more homes for sale than there are buyers to purchase them. This surplus of listings gives buyers more negotiating power – they can take their time, compare properties, and sometimes secure better prices or conditions.
In contrast, a seller’s market happens when demand outpaces supply, leading to competition, bidding wars, and rising prices.
Durham’s market over the past few years has swung between these extremes, and as of late 2024 into 2025, signs suggest conditions are starting to tip back toward balance – with some submarkets leaning slightly in buyers’ favour.
The Current Landscape: Is Durham a Buyer’s Market Right Now?
So, is it officially a buyer’s market in Durham?
Not across the board – but we’re getting closer.
According to the Housing Market Outlook for Durham Region, listings across Oshawa, Whitby, and Bowmanville have steadily increased, while the pace of sales has cooled. This shift toward balanced conditions means buyers have more leverage than they’ve had in years, especially in mid-range price brackets.
Price growth has also moderated. Bowmanville home prices and Oshawa housing trends show stabilization rather than steep increases, giving first-time buyers a chance to enter the market with more realistic expectations.
That said, Durham isn’t a full buyer’s market everywhere. Neighbourhoods with limited supply – like central Whitby or newer developments near Highway 407 – still see strong competition for well-priced, move-in-ready homes.
Why the Shift Matters for First-Time Buyers
If you’ve been waiting to buy your first home, this market is giving you something you haven’t had in a while: time and choice.
In 2021 and 2022, buyers often had to make offers within hours, waive inspections, and compete with investors offering cash. Today, first-time buyers in Durham can move at a more thoughtful pace, negotiate conditions, and even explore homes that might have been out of reach before.
This breathing room makes it possible to focus on long-term fit – location, affordability, and lifestyle – rather than rushing to simply “win” a property.
But the opportunity also comes with responsibility: understanding the data, staying pre-approved, and being ready to act strategically when the right home appears.
Oshawa Housing Trends: Opportunity for Entry-Level Buyers
Oshawa remains one of the most accessible entry points for Durham first-time home buyers. While some neighbourhoods have experienced modest price declines, others – particularly in North Oshawa and near Lakeview – have held steady due to family demand and infrastructure growth.
The key advantage for first-time buyers here is inventory variety. Oshawa offers detached homes, townhomes, and condos at different price points, giving buyers more flexibility depending on their budget and priorities.
If affordability is your top concern, exploring an Oshawa housing trend toward smaller freeholds or condo-townhomes can open up new possibilities. You can browse available Durham Region listings to get a feel for current pricing and styles of homes across Oshawa and surrounding communities.
Whitby’s Real Estate Market: Balance in Motion
The Whitby real estate market is shifting toward balance but remains competitive in desirable family neighbourhoods. With strong schools, transit options, and lakefront amenities, Whitby continues to attract buyers relocating from the GTA – many of whom have larger down payments from selling elsewhere.
For first-time buyers, this means being strategic. Focus on emerging pockets or slightly older subdivisions where prices haven’t surged as sharply. Newer developments near Whitby Shores or north of Taunton Road offer long-term growth potential and great access to highways and schools.
If you’re drawn to Whitby for its family appeal, our neighbourhood spotlight on Whitby Shores offers insight into why this lakeside community remains one of Durham’s most desirable.
Bowmanville Home Prices and Market Insights
Bowmanville home prices have adjusted slightly since their 2021 highs, but demand remains steady thanks to ongoing development and relative affordability compared to western Durham.
The town’s mix of new builds, small-town character, and easy commuter access make it appealing for buyers seeking space and value. With growing inventory and less pressure from bidding wars, Bowmanville is becoming a sweet spot for first-time buyers who want a detached home rather than a condo.
Local listings indicate more flexible negotiations and longer days on market, allowing buyers to explore different neighbourhoods and compare options before making a decision.
How First-Time Buyers Can Take Advantage
Durham’s evolving conditions favour prepared buyers. To make the most of this window:
- Get Pre-Approved Early
Know exactly what you can afford – not just based on rate, but on comfort. Pre-approval strengthens your offer when you find the right home. - Watch Local Data, Not Just Headlines
Conditions vary widely. An “Oshawa slow market” might coexist with bidding activity in a specific Whitby neighbourhood. Your agent can help you interpret trends that matter for your price range. - Don’t Wait for the “Perfect” Dip
Trying to time the bottom of the market can backfire. Focus instead on affordability and long-term goals – the best time to buy is when the home fits your life and your budget. - Work With a Local Expert
Partnering with a Realtor who understands Durham’s sub-markets – from Bowmanville to Brooklin – ensures you’re seeing the right listings, negotiating confidently, and avoiding surprises.
To explore what’s available now, visit Durham Region listings or book a buyer’s consultation to get personalized insights.
What to Expect in the Months Ahead
Economists predict that Durham’s housing market will remain balanced to slightly in buyers’ favour through early 2026, with modest price growth and steady sales volume. While interest rates have stabilized, they remain higher than in past years – a factor keeping competition moderate even as more buyers re-enter the market.
According to CMHC’s 2025 Housing Market Outlook, national housing activity is expected to gradually improve as lower borrowing costs and supportive policies unlock pent-up demand. Meanwhile, Durham’s local updates show increased listings and slightly longer times on market, reflecting a steady, balanced environment with room for negotiation.
In short, conditions could tighten again if demand strengthens – but for now, buyers have space to compare, inspect thoroughly, and make confident long-term decisions.
The Bold Group Advantage
At Bold Group, we understand that buying your first home isn’t just a transaction – it’s a milestone. Our agents combine market data, local insight, and personalized strategy to help you make confident, informed decisions.
From understanding Oshawa housing trends to navigating the Whitby real estate market, our team is here to simplify the process, advocate for your goals, and find the property that fits your future.
Whether you’re ready to buy now or planning ahead for next year, Bold’s approach ensures you’ll have a clear plan and a trusted partner every step of the way.
Conclusion
So, is it a buyer’s market in Durham?
In many ways, yes – especially for first-time buyers who are ready, informed, and proactive. With more listings, steadier prices, and fewer bidding wars, 2025 offers opportunities we haven’t seen in years.
But success still comes down to strategy. Working with a local expert who understands Durham’s evolving market ensures you’ll make the right move at the right time – and find a home that’s not just affordable, but exceptional.
If you’re ready to explore the possibilities, reach out to Bold Group today. We’ll help you navigate the market, avoid common first-time buyer pitfalls, and turn your homeownership goals into reality.