Ottawa’s condo market in 2025 is full of choices — and one of the biggest decisions buyers face is whether to purchase a brand new, pre-construction unit or buy resale.

On paper, it might seem simple. New builds are modern and shiny; resale units offer immediate occupancy. But there’s a lot more going on beneath the surface — especially in this market.

If you're deciding between the two, here’s what you need to know about how new builds and resale condos actually compare in Ottawa right now — from price and layout to timelines, risks, and long-term value.

1. Pricing Isn’t Always What It Looks Like

At first glance, new build prices can look tempting. Developers often advertise “starting from” prices, but by the time you add upgrades, parking, and premiums for a better floor or view, that number climbs fast.

In contrast, resale condos show you the full picture up front — and in today’s market, many sellers are flexible on price. We've seen resale units with better square footage and views selling for less than pre-construction prices in similar neighbourhoods.

Bottom line: New builds might feel affordable at first, but they’re rarely cheaper overall — especially once you factor in time.

2. Timing: Can You Afford to Wait?

Buying pre-construction means waiting 2–4 years — sometimes longer. Even once the building is finished, there’s typically a months-long interim occupancy period, where you pay occupancy fees without owning the unit yet.

If you need to move soon or plan to rent out your unit quickly, resale offers immediate possession and often a faster path to ROI.

That said, if you’re in no rush and want a brand-new unit with a long planning horizon, new builds can still be a smart play — especially if you’re banking on future appreciation.

3. Layouts, Sizes, and Liveability

Older doesn’t mean outdated. Many resale condos — especially those built between 2005–2015 — offer better layouts, more square footage, and more thoughtful use of space than some of today’s cookie-cutter towers.

Pre-construction units often prioritize efficiency over character, with smaller bedrooms and kitchens designed for short-term tenants or minimalists. If you plan to live in your unit full-time, resale might offer more space where it counts.

4. Location Matters — and So Does What’s Already Built

New builds are often located in up-and-coming areas — which can be a smart long-term move, but it also means waiting for neighbourhood amenities to catch up. Resale units tend to be in more established areas, where you already know what you're getting: transit access, walkability, and community feel.

We always help clients weigh the difference between what a neighbourhood promises and what it actually delivers right now.

5. Fees, Management, and the First Few Years

Here’s a little-known fact: new build condo fees are estimates. Developers don’t always budget for full operating costs, and when the condo board takes over, those numbers often go up — sometimes significantly — within the first few years.

In contrast, a resale building has a history. You can see how the reserve fund is managed, whether fees have gone up, and whether the building has a track record of solid maintenance or constant special assessments.

So… Which Should You Buy in 2025?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But here’s what we recommend:

✅ Choose pre-construction if:

You don’t need to move soon
You want the newest finishes and appliances
You’re okay with long-term uncertainty for future upside

✅ Choose resale if:

You want space, flexibility, and a faster move-in
You want predictable fees and a clearer investment outlook
You’re looking in established neighbourhoods or buildings with strong resale value

At mattrichling.com, we help clients navigate both options — and make informed decisions based on real-time data and real-world performance. Whether you’re exploring your first condo or your fifth, we’ll walk you through every step and every hidden cost, so you know exactly what you’re buying into.

Thinking of buying a condo in Ottawa this year?
Let’s talk about what’s on the market now — and what’s launching soon. The best option might not be what you expected.