Ottawa's dynamic real estate team!
Buying or selling a home is a big decision and we can guide you through the process.
House hunters can count on personal service, market knowledge and expert negotiation skills.
Seller's should note that marketing properties FOR SALE is our passion!
We use a modern and professional strategy that works.
Ottawa’s MLS® Market Making Headway
The number of homes sold through the MLS® System of the Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) totaled 1,059 units in November 2024 — a slight dip down from the 1,179 units sold the month previous.
Home sales were 3.1% below the five-year average and 0.5% below the 10-year average for the month of November.
On a year-to-date basis, home sales totaled 12,882 units in November 2024 — an increase of 11.8% from the same period in 2023.
“Ottawa’s market is making headway on a long road back from the slowdown experienced in 2023,” says OREB Past-President Curtis Fillier. “Buyers have been slow to come back to the market while watching the interest rates lower, and some are waiting to see how new mortgage rules — the extended amortization period and the increased default insurance cap — coming into effect in December may redefine their purchasing power. Sellers have noticed that caution and those who can are likely holding on for a more active spring.”
“There will be the typical slowdown at this time of the year as people’s attentions turn to the holidays, and the snow starts to cover a property’s selling features,” says Fillier. “With prices holding steady and open houses getting traffic, though, people are keeping a close eye on opportunities.”
By the Numbers – Prices:
The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) tracks price trends far more accurately than is possible using average or median price measures.
The overall MLS® HPI composite benchmark price was $636,700 in November 2024, a 1.5% increase from November 2023.
The benchmark price for single-family homes was $722,400, up 2.1% year-over-year.
By comparison, the benchmark price for a townhouse/row unit was $491,500, up 0.3% compared to a year earlier.
The benchmark apartment price was $406,200, down 3.7% from last year.
The average price of homes sold in November 2024 was $667,098 increasing 4.6% from November 2023.
The more comprehensive year-to-date average price was $679,797, increasing by 1.2% from November 2023.
The dollar volume of all home sales in November 2024 was $706.4 million, up 51.8% from November 2023.
OREB cautions that the average sale price can be useful in establishing trends over time but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The calculation of the average sale price is based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Prices will vary from neighbourhood to neighbourhood.
By the Numbers – Inventory and New Listings:
The number of new listings saw a decrease of 7.3% from November 2023. There were 1,352 new residential listings in November 2024. New listings were 6.3% below the five-year average and 0.3% above the 10-year average for the month of November.
Active residential listings numbered 4,036 units on the market at the end of November 2024, a gain of 38.2% from November 2023. Active listings were 72.8% above the five-year average and 44.3% above the 10-year average for the month of November.
Months of inventory numbered 3.8 at the end of November 2024, compared to 4.0 in November 2023. The number of months of inventory is the number of months it would take to sell current inventories at the current rate of sales activity.
Source: Ottawa Real Estate Board
Brad Gilbert - Broker
Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University, Marketing Major
Brad is a brilliant communications expert, committed to customer service excellence since 2013. As a real estate Broker, he has the utmost obligation to uphold trade standards and oversee team transactions. Driven by his passion for people and deep rooted values of honesty and integrity, Brad embraces positivity and creativity in the housing market and in life. Animated and ambitious, you will love his vision for your home.
Lindsey Merkley - Sales Representative
Lindsey brought her great energy and management skills to the team in 2016. She owns a dual role as Buyer Specialist and Marketing Coordinator. Lindsey is there when you need her most, offering delightful and efficient service! She is not afraid to share her valuable insight when you find ‘ the one ’. Rest assured that your real estate transaction will be facilitated by someone who really cares.
MAKEITHAPPEN E-NEWSLETTER Volume 25 - Rise Like a Pheonix from Ottawa
Click here to read our latest E-Newsletter!
Neighbourhood Spotlight: Merivale Gardens
Could this be the perfect Ottawa neighbourhood for your post-pandemic move? We think so! Merivale Gardens is surrounded by protected forest, trails, parks and the area’s only inland sand dunes. You heard it first-hand from Brad, and the whole Gilbert Family: it’s an ideal neighbourhood to grow up.
Here’s some #makeithappen ideas on how to be a better neighbour!
One of our shared, lifelong goals is to be leaders and upstanding members of the communities where we live. After all, it takes a village. Especially these days, when the people we see the most are those who live outside the front door or on the other side of the fence.
1. Introduce Yourself and Get Connected
Don’t be shy to say hi, whether you’re old or new. Those who’ve been around have all kinds of tips and tricks and nuisances that might make your new life easier. Swap phone numbers, emails and social coordinates -- this enables an open line of communication.
2. Lend a Hand in You Can
Mow that strip of grass between your laneways if it's easier for you. Bring back those recycling bins if they’re bothering you on the curbside; it’s no big deal. Another idea is to look out for a lingering delivery on their porch -- or text them about it.
3. Set Boundaries
It’s not always a great time for a lengthy chat. Front lawns are more approachable territory. Even knocking on doors these days is dicey, so you might revert to step #1 and text a heads up!
4. Avoid Drama
Everyone loses their cool at some point but it’s hard to come back from a major blow out so try and calm yourself before bringing up controversial topics. The last thing you want is negative energy that festers. Too late? It’s never too late to squash the beef!
5.Be Mindful of Your Pets
As animal lovers, we appreciate cuteness and cuddles, but remember that not everyone is comfortable. Barking and behavioural issues can frighten and frustrate your neighbours. A good move is to make a playdate and have them get to know each other.
6. Reach Out When in Doubt
If you notice they’re not up to their usual routines and activities, it’s always nice to hear that someone cares. Perhaps they’re feeling isolated? An offer to run a simple errand or pick-up essentials is always well received.
7. Participate
Most areas have a Community Association where residents can share their perspectives on everything from development, to transit, to parks and rec. Buy & Sell groups and plant swaps are other benefits. These people tend to be knowledgeable and most welcoming! Tip: See if there’s a Facebook group.
8. Make it Fun
Home is where the heart is and it’s amazing when you truly enjoy those who surround you. If you’re not quite there, keep on trying. These people have a tremendous impact on our everyday energy and good relations go a long way toward having a happy home life. Sharing is caring!!
Meet the @makeithappenrealtors -- A Mini Series
Episode 1 : Why #makeithappen?
Inspired by the real housewives of @bravotv, allow us to re-introduce the team as we look forward to another busy season selling real estate!
Want more? See episodes 2-6 below!
Episode 2: Any advice for 1st time home buyers?
In this weeks’ clip we share some basics to help you break into the market. Lindsey’s tip may surprise you but we think it’s a no brainer!
Episode 3: What do we love about our job?
In this clip we discuss a few of our favourite things!
Episode 4: What do you recommend to sellers who are trying to get their house ready to sell?
Here is our #1 recommendation and there’s no time like the present!
Episode 5: How's the market?
In this clip we give our insight on the market and what you can do to get in on it!
Episode 6: Why choose you?
In our last clip we explain why you need a Realtor and more specifically us!
Testimonials
"Friendly, personable, knowledgeable, professional, there really aren't enough positive words to describe the agents and the service we received. Thank you so much for help
ing realize this dream home and property. It truly is thanks to the teams devotion and hard work that we ticked off all the boxes!"
- Shannon Robie
"Both Brad and Lindsay exceed expectations and provide a first class experience. We always felt like we were their top priority. It has been an absolute pleasure working with Brad, he is very attentive to our needs and several requests. I would not hesitate to recommend him to our friends and family!"
- Cristina Divirgillio
"Brad was honest and encouraging without being pushy. I felt comfortable asking questions and he explained the answers very well. He was very knowledgeable about the things to look for and was focused on my partner and my needs."
- Eva Comeau
"Outstanding. We were purchasing in Ottawa from Barrie, and Lindsey did such an amazing job helping my partner and I find a house."
- Melissa Matson
"Brad and Lindsey were amazing Everything happened so fast but the experience was stress free for me. They took care of everything."
- Chelsea Larock
"Impressive responsive time and highly knowledgeable."
- John Kennedy
"Always a text or a call away! We always felt supported and that our needs were met. Lindsey you rock! Thank you so much for all of your patience and hard work."
- Emilie Giles
"Lindsey was always very reliable and knowledgeable around the entire process including things even outside of her direct role. As a first time home buyer, I felt lucky to have her support me throughout this entire journey. She was always going above and beyond for me. She would be the first I would contact in the future if I want to buy another home and would refer her to any of my family/friends who are looking to buy"
- Tarek Aljabban
"Friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. Brad and Lindsey jumped to when we found the home that we wanted and were by our side through the many days of negotiations to secure the purchase. Without breaking stride, they then led us through the sale of our house with expert marketing strategy. Their staging, photos, video, social media presence, and skillful negotiations helped us to sell at over 100k above asking. We couldn't be happier!"
- CJ Briggs
"Lindsey was hard working and always available to answer questions when we needed them. She offered great advice and took the time to go through the pros and cons of the different properties we were looking at and always kept out budget in mind".
- Evan Trafford
Wanna keep up with the latest adventures of Brad and Lindsey?
Follow us on Instagram!
@makeithappenrealtors
Red Diamond Award Recipient 2021
What an honour it is to be named one of the top teams in the country (top 2% that is) and we can’t thank you enough for helping us achieve our highest ever milestone.
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