As we step into March, it's a great time to take stock of where our local real estate markets stand. The numbers from January and February 2026 tell a story of a market that is moving with purpose — cautiously optimistic, grounded in real demand, and showing early signs of a healthy spring season ahead.
Here's what the data is telling us across the four regions we serve.
Simcoe County — The Anchor of the Region
Simcoe County remains the most active market in our region by a wide margin, with 824 transactions recorded between January and February — generating nearly $598 million in total sales volume. The average sale price of $726,315 reflects a broad and diverse market, from entry-level homes in Barrie and Orillia to larger rural and waterfront properties throughout the county.
With properties selling at 96% of list price on average and 6.7% of sales closing above asking, buyers are active and engaged. The median of 41 days on market tells us that well-priced homes are not sitting — they're finding buyers. Sellers who price strategically and present their homes well are being rewarded.
Muskoka — Steady Demand for Prestige Properties
Muskoka posted an average sale price of $745,373 across 107 transactions in the first two months of 2026, with total dollar volume reaching nearly $80 million. This is a market that moves deliberately — average days on market sit at 77, reflecting the time buyers naturally take when making significant waterfront and cottage purchasing decisions.
The 96% sale-to-list ratio signals that sellers and buyers are finding common ground, and with 550 active listings currently available, there is meaningful choice heading into the spring season. For buyers who have been watching the Muskoka market, now is an excellent time to get serious before the traditional spring surge in competition.
Parry Sound — An Underrated Opportunity
Parry Sound continues to offer exceptional value relative to its neighbours to the south, with an average sale price of $489,843 and a median of $472,500. What stands out in this market is the 8.5% above-list rate — the highest of the four regions — suggesting that well-positioned properties are generating real competition when they come to market.
With 316 active listings and a longer average days-on-market of 95, buyers have the opportunity to be thoughtful without feeling rushed. For those seeking waterfront or recreational properties at more accessible price points, Parry Sound deserves a serious look this spring.
Haliburton — Quiet, But Moving
Haliburton recorded 25 transactions in the first two months of 2026 with an average sale price of $531,230 — a quieter market by volume, but one that tells an interesting story. The 8.0% above-list rate and 93% sale-to-list ratio suggest that motivated buyers are present and properties that hit the market at the right price are moving.
Haliburton's longer average days-on-market of 92 is typical for a smaller recreational market in winter months. As spring arrives and cottage country awakens, we expect to see activity pick up meaningfully. With 165 active listings and a median list price of $499,900, there are real opportunities here for buyers who are ready to move.
What It All Means Heading Into Spring
Taken together, the data paints a picture of a region that is performing with quiet confidence. Prices are holding firm, demand is real, and the foundation is in place for a productive spring market across all four regions.
For sellers, the conditions are encouraging — especially in Simcoe County where transaction volume and above-list sales demonstrate active buyer interest. For buyers, the window before the full spring market arrives is a valuable one. More inventory is coming, but so is more competition.
As always, local knowledge matters. Each of these markets has its own character, its own nuances, and its own opportunities. We're here to help you navigate all of them.
Questions About Your Local Market?
Whether you're curious about what your home is worth, wondering which region fits your lifestyle, or ready to make a move this spring — we'd love to have that conversation. Reach out to the Lake Country Real Estate Team anytime.
📞 bill@lakecountryrealestateteam.com
Lake Country Real Estate Team | eXp Realty | Serving Simcoe County, Muskoka, Parry Sound & Haliburton
