Ottawa's dynamic real estate team!
Buying or selling a home is a big decision and we can guide you through the process.
Buyers: House hunters can count on FAST RESPONSE, personal service, market knowledge and expert negotiation skills.
Sellers: We go ALL IN to help you get market ready and then promote within our established network with confidence and creativity to maximize results.
We use a modern and professional strategy that works.
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.
Sales Rise as Inventory Levels Ease in October
November 7, 2025
OTTAWA, ON — Ottawa’s market continues to be resilient despite broader concerns about economic uncertainty. In October, Ottawa’s housing market experienced a modest, seasonal increase in sales activity accompanied by a reduction in the elevated inventory levels seen in recent months. This points to a stable yet cautious phase for the region as we move into the typically slower winter season.
Last month, a total of 1,177 homes were sold, up 8.1% from 1,089 in September 2025, but down slightly year over year with a 1.2% decrease compared to October of 2024. The average sale price climbed to $709,002, an increase of 2.7% month over month and 5.7% higher than the same period last year, suggesting that underlying demand remains resilient.
Ottawa saw 2,405 new listings in October, a 15.1% decline from September 2025, but 13.4% higher than October 2024. This seasonal drop off in new listings between September and October has been a consistent pattern over the past decade. More notably, active listings fell from 4,388 in September to 4,232 in October, a 3.6% decrease. While inventory levels remain higher than in recent years, this familiar fall decrease in active listings suggests that the trend towards elevated supply levels may be starting to stabilize, still within a balanced market range. Reinforcing that trend, the months of inventory measure eased from 4.0 to 3.6, indicating a modest tightening in the balance between buyers and sellers as the fall market settled.
The Bank of Canada’s second consecutive rate cut on Oct. 29, 2025, lowered the policy rate by 25 basis points to 2.25%, providing additional relief to borrowers and some optimism for an active spring market. However, the bank tempered expectations for further easing, noting in its statement that this is likely the final cut in the current cycle. The Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) is monitoring the newly released federal budget and workforce announcements, as cuts in either area have historically affected Ottawa’s housing market given the city’s large federal employment base.
Overall, Ottawa continues to display a pattern of measured balance, modestly improving demand, steady prices, and a market environment that remains fundamentally healthy as it heads toward year-end.
“Ottawa’s market continues to demonstrate balance and resilience,” said OREB President Paul Czan. “We’re seeing modest growth in sales activity, stable pricing, and a seasonal easing of elevated inventory levels. The recent rate adjustments provide optimism for the coming months, but economic uncertainty looms, and buyers and sellers remain cautious, watching how broader economic factors play out. The current environment points to a steady market rather than a rapid shift in either direction.”
Residential Market Activity
Year to date, 12,197 homes have sold, a 3.3% increase over the first 10 months of 2024. The total dollar volume through October reached $8.55 billion, up 6.5% year over year, while the average year-to-date price stands at $700,869, a 3.0% increase year over year.
Looking at the bigger picture, there have been 12,197 home sales so far this year, a 3.3% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
The average sale price for all sold listings in October was $709,002, up 5.7% from last year and 2.7% higher than September.
The year-to-date average price now stands at $700,869, a 3.0% increase over the first ten months of 2024.
Altogether, the total value of homes sold in October was approximately $834.5 million, a 4.5% year-over-year increase, and sits just under $8.5 billion year to date, a significant 6.5% increase over the same period of time in 2024.
On the listing side, there were 2,405 new residential listings added in October, down 15.1% from September but still 13.4% higher than last year.
Active listings totaled 4,232, a 3.6% decrease from September but 21.3% higher year over year.
The months of inventory, a key measure of supply, eased from 4.0 in September to 3.6, reflecting a slightly tighter balance between supply and demand within what remains a generally balanced market.
MLS® Home Price Index (HPI)
The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) composite benchmark for Ottawa was $622,700 in October, down 0.7% month over month but up 0.7% year over year, continuing the trend of moderate, sustainable price movements rather than volatility.
Source: Ottawa Real Estate Board
MAKEITHAPPEN E-Newsletter Volume 29: Like an apple orchard, the Market is ripe for the picking! 🍎
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?
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@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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