Active Listings and Stable Prices Offer Hope for Buyers Amid Economic Uncertainty
In April 2025, the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® (LSTAR) reported 653 sales, a 14.3% decrease compared to April 2024. New listings totaled 1,523, reflecting a 10.1% decline year-over-year, while active listings increased by 19.6% to 2,891. The average price of homes was $654,147, a slight 0.5% decrease, from April 2024.
Year-to-date figures show 2,107 sales, a 19.2% drop compared to the same period in 2024. New listings increased slightly by 1.5% to 5,190, while active listings rose by 22.5% to 2,417.
LSTAR Chair Dale Marsh commented on the current market conditions, stating, “The real estate market is facing significant challenges due to economic uncertainties and the impact of tariffs. We are hopeful that the new Canadian government will address the uncertainty caused by tariffs. Although interest rates are favourable, buyers are hesitant to enter the market due to the prevailing uncertainty.”
There are positive aspects to consider. The increase in active listings indicates a growing inventory, which can provide more options for buyers and potentially stabilize prices. Additionally, the slight increase in new listings year-to-date suggests that sellers are still entering the market, maintaining a level of activity. Furthermore, the average price of homes remains relatively stable, with only a 0.5% decrease, showing resilience in property values.
The table below displays April’s average prices and MLS® HPI Benchmark Prices in LSTAR’s main regions.
MLS® HPI Benchmark Price | Average Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Central Elgin | $648,100 | $641,445 |
| London East | $462,900 | $514,004 |
| London North | $676,500 | $724,739 |
| London South | $587,600 | $684,335 |
| Middlesex Centre | $834,400 | $940,900 |
| St. Thomas | $555,000 | $574,887 |
| Strathroy-Caradoc | $786,800 | $682,149 |
| LSTAR | $589,200 | $654,147 |
In April 2025, the MLS® Home Price Index Benchmark Prices for the LSTAR region mostly declined compared to March 2025, with drops in the Composite, Single-Family, One Storey, and Two Storey Benchmark Prices. The Townhouse Benchmark Price remained stable, while the Apartment Benchmark Price increased.
For Buyers: This decline in prices may present an opportunity to purchase homes at lower prices compared to previous months, particularly for single-family and one-storey properties. The increase in apartment prices suggests a growing demand for more affordable housing options, which could be beneficial for first-time buyers or those looking for smaller properties. The stable townhouse prices indicate a consistent market segment that might offer reliable investment opportunities.
For Sellers: Sellers may face challenges due to the overall decline in benchmark prices, which could affect their potential returns. However, the increase in apartment prices and stable townhouse prices could be advantageous for those selling these types of properties. Sellers might need to adjust their expectations and pricing strategies to align with current market conditions and attract buyers.
The following table displays April’s benchmark prices for all housing types within LSTAR’s jurisdiction and shows how they compare with those recorded in the previous month and three months ago.
| Benchmark Type | April 2025 | Change Over March 2025 | Change Over January 2025 |
| LSTAR Composite | $589,200 | ↓4.1% | ↓4.6% |
| LSTAR Single-Family | $641,100 | ↓3.8% | ↓3.6% |
| LSTAR One Storey | $583,300 | ↓4.9% | ↓2.5% |
| LSTAR Two Storey | $688,600 | ↓3.1% | ↓4.4% |
| LSTAR Townhouse | $489,100 | 0.0% | ↓0.6% |
| LSTAR Apartment | $393,800 | ↑4.0% | ↓4.2% |