Windsor-Essex Real Estate: What January 2026 Numbers REALLY Mean for You

by Kris Ramotar

Hey, it’s Kris Ramotar, your local Realtor for Windsor and Essex County. If you’re wondering what’s happening in our real estate market, you’ve come to the right place. I’m here to give you the real, on-the-ground story of what the January 2026 numbers mean for you and your family. Forget the confusing headlines; let’s talk about what’s really going on.

January 2026 Market Snapshot: Homes vs. Condos

This January, we saw a dynamic market with some interesting trends. Here’s a simple breakdown of the numbers:

Single-Family Homes:

•614 homes were listed for sale.

•191 homes were sold.

•The average sale price was nearly $528,000.

•The median sale price was $500,000.

•Homes are taking a bit longer to sell, with an average of 41 days on the market.

Condos:

•118 condos were listed for sale.

•14 condos were sold.

•The average sale price was just over $329,000.

•The median sale price was just over $318,000.

•Condos are also seeing a longer time on the market, with an average of 63 days.

What does this all mean? It means we’re in a more balanced market, leaning towards being a buyer’s market. This is a significant shift from the frenzy of the past few years, and it creates new opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

What This Means for Buyers: A Market of Opportunity

If you’re thinking of buying a home in Windsor-Essex, this is a market you can thrive in. With more homes available and less competition, you have the breathing room to make a smart, unhurried decision. You can find a home that truly fits your family’s needs without the pressure of intense bidding wars.

Just recently, I helped a young family find their dream home in a great South Windsor location. It was a beautifully renovated, turnkey home that we were able to secure for just under the list price. This is a perfect example of what’s possible in today’s market when you have the right strategy.

However, it’s important to remember that well-priced, move-in-ready homes in desirable locations are still attracting competition. I’ve seen homes sell for more than $100,000 over the asking price in the last few weeks. The key is to be prepared and to work with an agent who understands the nuances of the current market.

What This Means for Sellers: The Keys to a Successful Sale

If you’re a homeowner thinking about selling, the market still holds great potential. The most important things to focus on are presentation, pricing, and patience.

•Showcase Your Home: Make sure your home is decluttered, clean, and staged to highlight its best features. First impressions are everything.

•Price it Right: Realistic pricing is crucial. Overpriced homes are sitting on the market, while well-priced homes are still selling.

•Be Patient and Realistic: The market has shifted. It’s important to have realistic expectations about the selling process and timeline.

I always tell my clients that we’re partners in this process. I’ll bring the marketing expertise and data-driven insights, but your part is to get your home ready for its moment in the spotlight. When we work together, we can achieve a successful sale that meets your financial goals.

The Truth About Pricing Your Home in Today’s Market

Pricing your home correctly is one of the most critical steps in the selling process. There are three main pricing strategies we can consider:

1.Aspirational Pricing: This is where you price your home based on what you hope to get, which is often higher than the current market value. This can be a risky strategy in a balanced market.

2.Perceived Market Value: This is where we price your home based on what the data tells us it’s worth in today’s market. This is a solid, data-backed approach.

3.Event-Based Pricing: This is where we list your home slightly below its perceived value to generate a lot of interest and potentially multiple offers. This can be a very effective strategy when executed correctly.

The right strategy for you will depend on your specific home, neighborhood, and the current market conditions. I’ll always provide you with the data and insights you need to make an informed decision.

How to Choose the Right Realtor in a Shifting Market

In a market like this, the agent you hire matters more than ever. You need someone with a proven track record, deep local knowledge, and a commitment to giving you the honest, data-driven truth. When you’re interviewing agents, don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions:

•How many families did you help last year?

•What is your sales volume?

•Can you show me your reviews and marketing samples?

I base all of my advice on data, not fluff. I’ll show you the numbers and explain what they mean for you so you can feel confident in your decisions.

If you're thinking of buying or selling, reach out anytime. I would love to guide you home

Kris Ramotar, Windsor, Ontario, and Essex County Realtor