Spring might get all the attention when it comes to real estate, but in Ottawa’s condo market, fall is one of the most strategic seasons to make a move. Whether you’re thinking of buying your first condo or selling your current one, the fall market offers a unique window of opportunity.
Inventory Opens Up
By September, many buyers who were competing fiercely in the spring have already found a home. That shift leaves more inventory available, and in Ottawa’s condo scene, that means more choice across different neighbourhoods and price points. From Centretown to Westboro, you’ll see more options on the market with less competition at the table.
Motivated Sellers
Owners who listed earlier in the year often don’t want to carry their condo into the winter months. They’re motivated to close before the holidays, which creates room for negotiation. That could mean a more attractive price, a faster closing, or simply less back-and-forth in the offer process.
Lifestyle Matters More in the Fall
Condos are about more than square footage — they’re about lifestyle. In the fall, you really get a sense of how the building and neighbourhood feel day-to-day. Does the lobby stay warm and welcoming when the weather dips? Is the neighbourhood still buzzing when patio season wraps up? These details matter, and they’re easier to evaluate in the fall.
Buy Now, Settle Before Winter
Nobody wants to move during a snowstorm. Buying in the fall means you can close, unpack, and settle before Ottawa’s winter hits full force. You’ll be ready to enjoy your building’s amenities — whether that’s underground parking, a gym, or simply not having to shovel a driveway — while everyone else is still dealing with the cold.
Where the Market Stands
Ottawa’s condo market remains balanced heading into fall: inventory is steady, sales are consistent, and average days on market are in line with long-term trends. For buyers, that means more breathing room. For sellers, it’s still a strong position if your unit is priced right and marketed properly.
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to make your move in Ottawa’s condo market, fall could be it.
Looking for more insight? Let’s talk about your goals and find out if this is the season to take the next step.
