Sarnia-Lambton Real Estate Market Update – April 2025
It’s that time again — time to dive into the latest real estate stats for Sarnia-Lambton. As we roll into May, here’s a breakdown of what happened in the market through April, what it means for buyers and sellers, and what trends are starting to take shape.
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Overall Market Snapshot
The Sarnia-Lambton real estate market is holding steady with a balanced overall trend.
- Year-to-date home sales: 452 (vs. 456 in 2024)
- April sales: 157 homes (just 1 fewer than April 2024)
- Current active listings (residential only): 496
- Months of Inventory: 3.15
(0–3 months = seller’s market, 3–6 = balanced, 6+ = buyer’s market)
Bottom line: We’re sitting right in that balanced market range, though it varies significantly by price range.
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Which Price Points Are Moving?
Let’s break it down by price range:
|
Price Range |
Active Listings |
Sales (Last Month) |
MOI |
% Sold |
|
$0–400K |
116 |
41 |
2.8 |
35% |
|
$400K–600K |
151 |
65 |
2.3 |
43% 🔥 |
|
$600K–800K |
97 |
29 |
3.3 |
30% |
|
$800K–1M |
78 |
16 |
4.8 |
20% |
|
$1M–1.3M |
38 |
6 |
6.3 |
15% |
|
$1.3M+ |
33 |
6 |
5.5 |
1.8% |
What’s Hot?
The $400K–600K range is the most active, with nearly half of homes selling. Entry-level homes under $600K are also performing well.
What’s Slower?
Properties over $800K are seeing longer listing times, more competition, and lower absorption rates.
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Key Market Metrics
- Average list price: $594,000 (vs. $595,000 last year)
- Average sale price: $513,000 (↑ $8,000 from last year)
- Days on Market (DOM): 36 (vs. 35 in 2024)
- List-to-sale price ratio: 98.1% (vs. 98.6% last year)
- Total sales volume: $87.2 million (vs. $86.9 million in 2024)
👉 The market is flat but stable — a sign of healthy balance, especially compared to more volatile regions across Canada.
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Rising Expired Listings
One interesting data point:
- 50 listings expired in April 2025, compared to just 29 last year.
This may suggest some sellers are overpricing or waiting for better conditions — something to watch if you’re thinking of listing.
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Market Trends & Predictions
Flat Market = Opportunity
- Slight growth (about 1–1.2%) in prices year-over-year.
- Sellers in the under $600K range are in a great position — strong demand and quick turnaround.
- Buyers moving up into higher brackets can often negotiate more favorable terms (conditions, price, extras).
Spring Market Delay
A late spring surge may be coming. Harsh winter weather and global uncertainty slowed things down, but activity is starting to pick up.
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Interest Rate & Policy Watch
- Bank of Canada held the overnight rate steady at 2.75% in April.
- Mortgage rates are hovering between 3.75%–4.25%, depending on terms.
- Rate stability may give buyers more confidence going into summer.
Federal Housing Initiatives
The re-elected federal government has proposed some housing-focused changes:
- PST Rebate on New Homes: Only GST (5%) may apply up to $1M — could save buyers up to $60,000.
- Mass Government-Built Housing: A throwback to post-WWII style builds like the “Tree Streets” — remains to be seen how (or if) this will be rolled out.
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One Last Note: That Winter!
It’s been one of the snowiest winters in the past decade. That may have impacted early-year listings and showings, but as we thaw out, expect a more active market.
What Do You Think?
- Is the balanced market good news for buyers and sellers?
- Do you think interest rates will change in the next BoC announcement on June 4th?
- Will the federal government’s housing initiatives make a real impact?
Let’s chat! Drop your thoughts in the comments or reach out directly if you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just curious about your home’s value.
Sean Ryan
📍 Blue Coast Realty, Sarnia-Lambton
Helping you navigate the market with confidence.
