Canadian real estate markets see shift toward buyer leverage

Residential real estate markets in parts of Canada are experiencing a shift toward buyer leverage due to increased inventory and changing economic conditions.

In Kamloops, the Q2 2025 market saw a slowdown, with 714 total home sales representing a 2.5% drop in transaction volume compared to the previous year. Active listings reached their highest level since 2017, providing buyers with more options. While single-family home sales decelerated, townhome sales rose by approximately 21.7% year-over-year as buyers sought more affordable entry points.

In Alberta, major cities Calgary and Edmonton are seeing a trend where many properties sell below asking prices. In Calgary, over 80% of resale properties sold below their list price as of June 30, with the apartment segment being particularly weak. In Edmonton, approximately 73% of transactions occurred below the listing price. Experts note that the market has moved away from the intense competition of previous years toward a more balanced state, granting buyers more time and negotiating power.