Dennis Pitino

Toronto, Vancouver housing still hugely desirable despite recent challenges
Even with the hurdles we’ve seen lately, both Toronto and Vancouver continue to attract buyers from around the world—ranking 20th and 24th internationally, thanks to resilient local economies. Yet, our high housing costs have lowered our Quality of Life scores, and that’s a challenge I see play out every day as families weigh their options. Canada needs to build between 430,000 and 480,000 homes each year to make housing truly affordable, but we’re not there yet. My decades of experience in Toronto real estate and my family’s deep roots in development and construction have shown me how important it is to address this supply gap. Navigating these complexities, with a focus on honest advice and strategic negotiation, remains at the heart of my work for clients making moves in and around the GTA.

Ontario Micro-Condos Face Steep Depreciation
Having spent decades guiding families between Toronto’s vibrant core and the evolving landscapes of the GTA, I’ve witnessed many shifts in our market—but the most recent figures for micro-condos stand out. In Mid-Q3 2026, the average GTA home sold for $993,000, marking a 3% annual decline and reinforcing a trend toward a more buyer-friendly environment. Condo apartments averaged $618,000, also trailing last year’s prices, with micro-condos (under 500 sq-ft) experiencing the steepest drop in value. These compact units are proving especially challenging to sell, as buyers gain access to larger, more appealing options. Early-Q3 data revealed that condos sold below asking in approximately 98% of GTA neighbourhoods with at least five sales, giving buyers unprecedented negotiation leverage. Single-family homes also saw underbidding in about 92% of GTA neighbourhoods, but it’s clear that condos remain especially sensitive to shifting investor demand. Having roots in both real estate development and construction, I understand the importance of reading these nuanced signals—especially when helping clients make informed decisions in a market that’s constantly evolving.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation