October Market Update — Trends Ahead of Ski Season
1. Why October Matters
October is a pivot month for real estate in our region—summer energy fades, but the ski season hasn’t fully kicked in yet. For properties near hills, lakes, or in popular countryside settings, this is a strategic window: buyers start looking ahead, owners get their listings ready, and momentum often builds for winter transactions. This update is about what I’m seeing now, what trends to watch, and how you can position yourself (whether buying or selling) before the snow falls.
2. Current Market Snapshot & Local Trends
Here’s what the numbers are showing in the Eastern Townships lately:
InMay 2025, the average sale price in Estrie reached$555,671, up ~5 % over May 2024.1
As of January 31, 2025, there were 561 new listings—versus 457 the year before—a 23 % increase in new single-family home listings.2
Across Quebec’s ski-adjacent real estate markets, Royal LePage forecasts a6 % price increase in 2025, even with higher borrowing costs.3
That said, some ski-adjacent zones have shown volatility—prices “near slopes” remain strong, but certain condominium segments in places like Bromont saw declines in 2024.4
These data points show resilience in the region, but with caveats: supply is up (more listings), buyers are cautious (prices are still high for some + interest rates), and competition is still strong in high-demand pockets.
3. What’s Driving Buyer / Seller Behavior
Demand still holds, even under pressure
Recreational and ski-area markets are proving more durable than expected. Despite high interest rates, buyers motivated by lifestyle (escape from cities, love of mountains, remote work) are still active. Royal LePage analysts noted a surge of inquiries when rate cuts were announced.5
Supply is loosening
More new listings—especially for single-family homes—are entering the market. That gives buyers more options, but in sought-after zones (near ski hills, with views, etc.), inventory remains tight.
Premiums likely for winter‑friendly features
Properties with snow access, winter maintenance, good insulation, proximity to ski hills or trails will command a premium. Buyers may prefer turnkey homes over ones needing upgrades.
Risks, headwinds & external factors
Interest rates: Future rate cuts will be a critical driver.
Climate / snow reliability: Warmer winters and more aggressive snowmaking raise costs for resorts, which may indirectly impact desirability.6
Macro conditions: Inflation, mortgage stress, and overall economic health still weigh on buyer confidence.
4. What to Watch Over the Next Few Months
The number of showings / inquiries for ski‑area or mountain-adjacent properties
How quickly listings are moving (days on market)
Price adjustments (discounts, negotiated offers) in slow zones
Which new listings highlight winter features (heating, hot tubs, woods stoves, views)
How short-term rental or vacation demand seasons affect buyer interest
5. Advice for Buyers & Sellers Now
For Buyers:
Get pre‑approved and act early — good options vanish fast in winter‑adjacent pockets
Focus on homes with winter-ready infrastructure (heating, insulation, driveway access)
Don’t underbid too aggressively — in tight zones, pure price isn’t always the deciding factor
Consider homes slightly off-slope but well-located — they may yield better value
For Sellers:
Stage your home for cozy winter appeal — show how it works in cold months (heating, textures, lighting)
Price with strategic flexibility — allow some room for negotiation in slower zones
Market winter features up front — let buyers know you thought of the cold season
Time your listing — hitting the market just as ski interest stirs can give you momentum
6. Looking Ahead & What’s Next
When snow falls and ski season begins, we’ll start seeing how predictions play out: which properties sell, which linger, what premiums emerge. My next market update will dig into post‑ski season performance (January or February) and compare to this pre‑season baseline.
In the meantime: If you’re considering buying or selling near ski hills or in the Townships, let’s chat. I can help you navigate the metrics, anticipate trends, and make strategic moves.
1Century 21 Estrie
2Century 21 Estrie
3Royal Lepage Village
4Royal Lepage Village
6The Logic
