Sales were down by 27% in October 2026 compared to the same month the previous year
Sales Slow as Inventory Grows and Buyers Gain Negotiating Power
The real estate market in southeastern New Brunswick continued to shift in October, with sales declining significantly compared to the same period last year. While property values remain relatively stable, increasing inventory and fewer transactions suggest that the market is becoming more balanced, with buyers enjoying greater choice and negotiating power.
Sales Decline as Market Conditions Change
A total of 278 properties were sold in October 2026, representing a 27% decrease compared to October 2025. Year-to-date, 3,026 properties have been sold, an 11% decline, representing approximately 380 fewer transactions than during the same period last year.
The total dollar value of properties sold in October decreased by 28% compared to last year, while year-to-date sales volume is also down.
Despite fewer transactions, the average selling price increased to $399,758 in October, up $18,362 from September. Properties spent an average of 85 days on the market, reinforcing the importance of realistic pricing and effective marketing.
More Listings, More Competition
Inventory continues to be an important factor influencing market conditions. During October, 635 new properties were listed, a 4% increase over the same month last year.
Since January, 6,401 properties have entered the market, representing a 4% increase compared to 2025.
Perhaps one of the most telling indicators is the year-to-date list-to-sale ratio, now reported at 57%, down 21 percentage points from last year. This suggests that a smaller proportion of listed properties are successfully finding buyers.
The combination of fewer sales and more listings is creating a more competitive environment for sellers. Buyers have more properties to choose from, more time to evaluate their options and, in many cases, greater negotiating power.
What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?
For buyers: The changing market presents opportunities. Greater selection, less competition and increased negotiating flexibility may create favorable conditions for those considering a purchase. However, well-priced and desirable properties can still attract considerable interest.
For sellers: Pricing and presentation have become more important than ever. The days when almost any property could sell quickly simply because inventory was limited are becoming less common. Sellers must pay close attention to comparable sales, property condition and evolving buyer expectations.
A Market in Transition, Not a Market in Decline
Although sales activity has slowed considerably, this does not necessarily mean that property values are experiencing the same decline. The average selling price actually increased in October compared to September, demonstrating that sales volume and property values do not always move in the same direction.
What we are witnessing is a market adjusting to changing supply and demand.
The takeaway: Real estate continues to move, but success increasingly depends on understanding current conditions, setting realistic expectations and making informed decisions. Whether buying or selling, professional guidance and a strategy adapted to today’s market are more valuable than ever.
