The January 2026 residential real estate market statistics are now in from WECAR (The Windsor/Essex County Association of Realtors). Let’s see how 2026 is shaping up so far!
You can download my full PDF Market Update Report here: https://steveblais.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/January-2026-Market-update-report-PDF.pdf
The average sale price for January 2026 was $528,040 which is down -4.37% from this time last year but up +0.61% from last month. Listings in January were up at 788 which is a -4.37% decrease compared to a year ago but up a whopping +71.68% compared to last month. Sales were down at 267 which is a -1.48% decrease compared to a year ago but up +2.30% from last month.
Average days on market was at 25 days in January which is down from 27 days in December. Months of inventory came in at 5.1 months (up from last month’s 4.8 months). This metric indicates that we are in a “Balanced Market”. The Sales to New Listings Ratio (SNLR) came in at 31.6% (down considerably from last month’s 58.5%). This metric indicates that we are in a “Buyer’s Market”. What’s the difference between these two metrics? In essence, these two metrics offer complementary perspectives on the real estate market. While months of inventory provides a snapshot of the overall supply situation, the sales to new listings ratio gives a more immediate indication of current market demand.
Current headlines: The BoC held interest rates at the January meeting (target 2.25%). The next announcement will be on March 18th. Inflation increased slightly in December at 2.4% (up from 2.2% the previous month). Windsor’s unemployment rate in December improved slightly at 7.7% (down from 8.1% the previous month). According to CMHC, Windsor experienced a drop in housing starts of -41% for all of 2025 (while nationally housing starts were up +5.6% last year, marking the fifth-highest annual total on record.). Windsor’s rental property vacancy rate was 3.7% in 2025 (compared to 3.1% nationally). Shaun Cathcart, CREA’s Senior Economist anticipates a return to more balanced market conditions and renewed momentum by spring.
Final thought: It’s clear that we’re starting 2026 off with a considerable number of new listings hitting the market while sales have remained relatively flat. Locally, the dramatic decrease of international students and immigration is certainly affecting the rental market as vacancy rates increase. Flippers and investors are certainly noticing the difference! Average price has stayed relatively similar to the previous month, but the median price has increased. The real question is as we slowly move towards the spring market will inventory continue to rise and more importantly will sales continue to stay flat or will demand increase? Time will tell!
Keep in mind that market conditions vary greatly depending on location, price point etc. so it’s never been more important to hire a REALTOR® who understands the market and can offer you the best advice possible! Take care!
