Why Fall is One of the Best Times to Buy a Home in Ottawa

When people think about moving, spring and summer usually come to mind. Open houses are buzzing, gardens are in bloom, and families plan moves around the school year. But in Ottawa, fall can be an equally smart — if not smarter — season to make your move.

More Choice, Less Competition
By September, the real estate market naturally shifts. Many sellers who listed in the spring but didn’t sell are still on the market, and new listings continue to hit. This means more choice for buyers, without the same level of bidding wars you often see earlier in the year. Fewer competitors at the table can give you more breathing room to negotiate and move at a pace that feels comfortable.

Sellers Are Motivated
As the year winds down, sellers are often eager to finalize a deal before winter sets in or before the holidays. That motivation can work in your favour as a buyer — whether it’s negotiating on price, securing better conditions, or even having some extras (like appliances or a flexible closing date) included.

You See the Home in Real Conditions
Ottawa winters can be tough, and fall is the season that shows you how a home really performs. You’ll get a good look at how the property handles rain, cooler temperatures, and shorter daylight hours. Things like heating, insulation, and drainage become much clearer in the fall than they do in the bright, warm days of May.

It’s a Great Time to Settle Before the Holidays
Buying in the fall means you can get your move done before winter weather makes everything harder. By December, you’ll be unpacked, decorated, and ready to enjoy the holiday season in your new space. For families, it also means settling in before the new year brings the rush of activities and routines.

What This Means for Ottawa Buyers
Right now, Ottawa’s market is balanced: inventory has grown compared to the summer, but demand is steady. That makes fall one of the rare times where both buyers and sellers are on fairly equal ground. If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to make a move, this could be it.

At New Purveyors, we guide you through every step — from narrowing down neighbourhoods to handling negotiations. And with our full marketing approach for sellers, including professional photography, videography, and targeted campaigns, we make sure every listing gets the attention it deserves.

Thinking about making a move this fall? Reach out to our team today and let’s start planning your next chapter in Ottawa.