Win the Bidding War: Tips for Multiple Offers in the GTA

The Greater Toronto Area real estate market in 2025 looks very different from just a few years ago. While bidding wars in the GTA are still happening, they are now more selective and most often limited to well-priced detached homes in high-demand areas. Condos and townhouses are taking longer to sell, and many sellers are adjusting their expectations. Buyers, sellers, and investors all need updated strategies to succeed in this more balanced but still competitive market.

How the Market Has Shifted

A Story From the Field

We’ve seen homes sit longer on the market as buyers test with low offers. Many sellers, unless they are pressed to move, prefer to hold off rather than slash their asking price. Homeowners who bought in 2021 and 2022 at peak prices are realizing that they may not recover those values right now, which makes listing a tougher choice.

Condos have been hit hardest. Prices are down significantly, and pre-construction buyers in particular are facing challenges. Some are struggling to close because today’s appraised values fall short of what they agreed to during the market peak. That gap has caused stress for sellers, but also opportunity for buyers ready to step in.

More Inventory and Balanced Conditions

The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) reports that active listings are up more than 30 percent year over year. With more choice, buyers don’t feel the same urgency that once drove aggressive bidding wars. Still, standout homes that check the right boxes — price, location, and presentation — continue to attract multiple offers. TRREB Market Watch

Detached Homes Remain Strong

Detached homes, especially well-priced and well-presented ones, can still attract competitive interest, but heightened inventory across the GTA means competition is softer than in past years. In contrast, condos and townhouses are noticeably more balanced. They stay on market longer and often involve negotiation before an offer sticks

Low-Rise Activity Picking Up

Low-rise housing is starting to show signs of recovery, with year-over-year sales increases in some sub-segments. This suggests that demand is slowly returning after a pause during higher interest rate cycles.

Tips for Buyers in 2025

Get Pre-Approved Early

Financing certainty is still one of the biggest advantages in a competitive market. A mortgage pre-approval allows you to act quickly when the right property appears. See our First-Time Home Buyer Guide for more on preparing financially.

Compete Strategically

Know when to come in strong and when to negotiate. Detached homes in desirable areas often require decisive action, while balanced markets give you time to consider terms.

Focus on Value, Not Just Price

Overpaying simply to win is rarely the right approach. Look for properties that offer value in location, lifestyle, and long-term growth. Buyers should also explore Ontario home buyer incentives, which can help reduce upfront costs.

Tips for Sellers in 2025

Price With Precision

Underpricing to fuel a bidding war no longer guarantees results. Buyers today are cautious and more informed. Setting a price that reflects recent sales is the best way to generate interest.

Showcase Your Home

Staging, professional photography, and video tours make a major difference. Our team includes complimentary staging as part of every listing package because presentation is still one of the most powerful ways to drive multiple offers. Learn more about how we prepare homes for sale.

Stay Flexible

Even in multiple-offer situations, buyers may request conditions or timing flexibility. Being open to small adjustments can help secure the strongest overall offer.

What Buyers, Sellers, and Investors Should Expect

Buyers should prepare for competition in detached homes but recognize that condos and townhouses leave more room for negotiation.

Sellers need to be realistic about pricing and focus on presentation. The automatic bidding wars of 2021 are gone, but well-positioned homes still spark strong interest.

Investors should watch the low-rise market, which may hold long-term opportunity as activity increases again.

Looking Ahead in 2025

The way bidding wars unfold is also changing. Digital offer platforms are making the process more transparent, allowing sellers to compare offers more clearly. AI-driven valuations are helping buyers and sellers assess value in real time. Virtual staging tools are expanding the reach of marketing campaigns, making homes look their best online before showings even begin.

For some GTA homeowners, particularly those who bought in 2021 and 2022, selling may feel complicated. Yet we are seeing families unlock new options by relocating to regions like Niagara, where home values stretch further and downsizing frees up equity. That strategy can be a practical way to move forward even if today’s GTA prices don’t match peak values.

The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and CMHC both provide ongoing insights into how these shifts may play out in the coming year.

The Bottom Line

Bidding wars are no longer the defining feature of the GTA market, but they remain part of the landscape. Buyers who are pre-approved and focused on long-term value can still compete effectively. Sellers who price accurately, present their homes well, and stay flexible are best positioned to attract multiple offers.

Ready to make your next move? Contact us today.