Canadian home buyers and sellers can expect modest growth in the national housing market next year, according to a new forecast from RE/MAX Canada. The real estate giant predicts national home sales will increase by 3.4 per cent in 2026, driven by pent-up demand from potential homeowners and available inventory.
Market Forces Driving 2026 Forecast
The projected sales increase reflects a balancing act between buyer demand and housing supply across Canadian markets. RE/MAX Canada expects the combination of motivated homebuyers and built-up inventory to create sustained sales activity throughout the coming year.
This forecast, released in late November 2025, comes amid varying regional conditions in Canada's real estate landscape. The 3.4 per cent national increase represents a measured outlook that acknowledges both the persistent demand for housing and the economic factors influencing buyer behavior.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For prospective homebuyers, the forecast suggests continued competition in the market, though potentially less intense than during previous peak periods. The mention of "built-up inventory" indicates sellers may have more properties available, providing buyers with additional options.
Home sellers can anticipate steady demand, particularly for well-priced properties in desirable locations. The projected sales growth of 3.4 per cent nationally points to a stable rather than explosive market environment, allowing for more predictable transaction timelines.
Broader Real Estate Context
The RE/MAX forecast arrives as Canadian real estate continues to navigate post-pandemic adjustments, interest rate fluctuations, and regional economic variations. While the national picture shows moderate growth, individual markets may experience different trajectories based on local employment conditions, population growth, and housing supply constraints.
Industry observers will be watching how this forecast aligns with upcoming economic data and whether the anticipated balance between demand and inventory materializes as projected. The 2026 outlook provides valuable guidance for both residential real estate participants and policymakers concerned with housing affordability and market stability.
