Real Estate Myths in Ontario: 3 Costly Beliefs Holding Buyers and Sellers Back
Real estate myths in Ontario still hold many buyers and sellers back in 2026 — especially when those beliefs are based on outdated information rather than today’s market realities.
January Brings the Most Honest Real Estate Conversations
January is usually when I have the most honest real estate conversations.
People aren’t rushing.
They’re thinking.
After the holidays, many people finally slow down enough to look at their situation clearly. They review finances, reflect on the past year, and start thinking about what they want the next phase to look like. That’s often when questions come up — and when uncertainty creeps in.
A lot of people feel stuck — not because of the Ontario real estate market itself, but because of things they believe are still true… when they’re not.
Even in 2026, I’m still hearing the same myths come up again and again. These real estate myths in Ontario stop people from moving forward, even when good options are available.
Let’s clear up three of the biggest ones.
Myth #1: “Spring Is the Only Good Time to Sell”
This is one of the most common real estate myths in Ontario — and it’s simply not true.
While spring is traditionally busy, it’s not the only time buyers are active. Early-year markets often attract a different type of buyer — one that is more focused and more prepared.
Early-year markets often have:
- Less competition from other sellers
- More serious buyers who have already planned their move
- Buyers who want to be settled before spring and summer
Well-prepared homes can actually stand out more in quieter months. I regularly see homes sell faster outside of spring because buyers have fewer options and stronger motivation.
Selling a home in 2026 isn’t about waiting for the “perfect” season.
It’s about preparation, pricing, and strategy.
Myth #2: “You Need 20% Down to Buy a Home”
This belief still holds many buyers back before they ever explore their real options.
Many buyers believe they need 20% down, but most don’t actually need that much to get started.
Depending on the property type, purchase price, and lender requirements, many buyers may qualify with:
- 5% down
- 10% down
What usually holds people back isn’t the down payment itself.
It’s not knowing what’s actually possible until the numbers are reviewed properly.
Mortgage rules, lending options, and insurance programs all play a role. Until someone looks at the full picture, assumptions can easily stop them from taking the next step.
If you’re thinking about buying a home in Ontario, clarity matters more than assumptions — especially in a changing market.
Down Payments & Buying Rules
Myth #3: “It Doesn’t Matter Who You List With”
I hear this one a lot — and it couldn’t be more wrong in today’s market.
Yes, the market matters.
But strategy matters more.
Pricing, presentation, timing, and negotiation all directly impact results. I’ve seen nearly identical homes sell weeks apart with very different outcomes.
The difference wasn’t luck.
It was planning and execution.
In a market where buyers are more selective, the details matter more than ever. How a home is positioned, marketed, and negotiated can make a meaningful difference in the final outcome.
This is why choosing the right approach matters when selling a home in 2026.
Feeling Unsure About Buying or Selling in 2026? You’re Not Alone
If you’ve been thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Ontario in 2026 — but feel unsure about what still applies to your situation — that’s completely normal.
Markets change.
Rules change.
But outdated beliefs shouldn’t be the reason you stay stuck.
Real estate decisions don’t need to be rushed, but they should be informed. When people understand what’s actually possible, the next steps become much clearer.
Good decisions come from good information — not headlines.
If you’d like, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to walk you through what’s realistic for your situation right now.
No pressure. Just clarity.