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Market Updates

The Real Cost of Homeownership in 2026: A Durham Region Market Update

By Keith Williams & Lisa C. Follows ยท

If you are wondering what homeownership really costs in Durham Region in 2026, here is the answer. According to the Central Lakes Association of Realtors (CLAR) September 2026 Housing Market Report, the average selling price across Durham Region was $829,993, up 0.8% from August's $823,153 and down about 5.5% from a year earlier. Durham Region recorded 525 home sales in September, new listings totalled 1,840, up about 29% month over month, and homes sold in about 31 days on average. Beyond the purchase price, today's buyers also face mortgage rates, property taxes that vary by municipality, and the ongoing costs of maintaining a home in one of Ontario's fastest-growing regions.

Key Takeaways

  • Durham Region's average selling price was $829,993 in September 2026 (CLAR), up 0.8% from August's $823,153 and down about 5.5% from September 2025.
  • Durham Region recorded 525 home sales in September 2026, down 7.6% from August's 568 and about 26% below the 707 recorded in September 2025.
  • New listings totalled 1,840 in September, up about 29% month over month, with 2,635 active listings at month end giving buyers more choice.
  • The full cost of ownership goes beyond the purchase price. Mortgage rates, property taxes, utilities, and maintenance all factor into what you can realistically afford.
  • Understanding these numbers before you start your search is the difference between a stressful experience and a confident purchase.

Durham Region Home Prices 2026: The Big Picture

The Durham Region housing market in 2026 is a story of seasonal rhythm, steady demand, and opportunity. After peaking in 2024 and declining through much of 2025, prices have settled into a range that many local agents describe as a "reset" rather than a crash.

According to the Central Lakes Association of Realtors (CLAR) September 2026 Housing Market Report, Durham Region recorded 525 home sales in September with an average selling price of $829,993, up 0.8% from August's $823,153 and down about 5.5% from a year earlier.

New listings totalled 1,840 in September, up about 29% month over month, active listings stood at 2,635 at month end, and homes sold in an average of about 31 days. CLAR continues to emphasize that year-over-year comparisons remain important. For buyers, the more measured market brings more choice and more leverage at the negotiating table than the hyper-competitive conditions of recent years.

For context, here are the key verified data points from the CLAR September 2026 Housing Market Report:

Metric September 2026 Note
Home Sales 525 Down 7.6% from August's 568
Average Selling Price $829,993 Up 0.8% from August; down about 5.5% year over year
New Listings 1,840 Up about 29% month over month
Active Listings 2,635 At month end
Average Days on Market 31 Average days to sell
Sales vs September 2025 -25.7% 707 sales a year earlier

Source: Central Lakes Association of Realtors (CLAR), September 2026 Housing Market Report.

Port Perry Real Estate Prices 2026

Port Perry, the heart of Scugog Township and the crown jewel of North Durham, commands a premium in the market. The September 2026 CLAR Housing Market Report covers Durham Region as a whole, where the average selling price was $829,993; for the most current Port Perry and Scugog figures, contact our team for a personalized assessment. Entry-level properties in the area typically start in the $800,000 range, while waterfront homes on Lake Scugog can easily exceed $1.5 million.

Well-priced homes in Port Perry still sell relatively quickly, and buyers looking at Port Perry real estate should expect to act decisively on properties that are priced realistically. Across the region, new listings rose about 29% month over month in September, so well-priced homes move while overpriced ones sit, and there is more room to negotiate than there was two years ago.

The type of property you can buy in Port Perry with a $900,000 budget includes a well-maintained 3-bedroom family home in one of the newer subdivisions, a charming older bungalow closer to the historic downtown on Queen Street, or a country property just outside town with some acreage. Waterfront at this price point remains a challenge, though smaller seasonal cottages or properties with limited shoreline access can occasionally be found.

Uxbridge: Where Premium Prices Meet Trail Country

Uxbridge remains one of the premium municipalities in Durham Region, known for trail country, equestrian properties, and country estates. The September 2026 CLAR Housing Market Report covers Durham Region as a whole, where the average selling price was $829,993; Uxbridge-specific figures are published in the same monthly release. For buyers who were priced out of Uxbridge during the 2024 peak, today's more measured market presents a genuine opportunity.

The "Trail Capital of Canada" attracts buyers who value rural living, equestrian properties, and proximity to over 220 km of trails connecting the Oak Ridges Moraine, Durham Regional Forest, and the Trans Canada Trail. Equestrian properties with barns and paddocks are a significant segment of the market here. For families, Uxbridge offers excellent schools, a charming heritage downtown, and a strong sense of community.

For a budget of $900,000 to $1 million, buyers can find spacious family homes on larger lots, some smaller acreage properties, and fixer-uppers with potential. The entry point for a decent family home in Uxbridge village is generally around $850,000, while country estates quickly climb above $1.2 million.

Brock Township: The Affordability Anchor

Brock Township, which includes the communities of Beaverton, Cannington, and Sunderland, is generally known as the most affordable corner of Durham Region. The September 2026 CLAR Housing Market Report covers Durham Region as a whole, where the average selling price was $829,993; Brock-specific figures are published in the same monthly release.

For buyers seeking value, Brock is where your budget stretches furthest. A $700,000 budget can buy a waterfront property on Lake Scugog, a spacious country home on multiple acres, or a substantial family home in one of Brock's welcoming villages. This suggests an opportunity for buyers who can move quickly when the right property comes up.

If you are considering Brock, our detailed guide to what $800,000 buys across Durham Region will help you understand exactly how far your money goes in this community compared to others.

Beyond the Purchase Price: The Full Cost of Homeownership

The purchase price is only part of the picture. Buyers in 2026 need to factor in several additional costs when calculating affordability.

Mortgage Rates

Higher interest rates in 2026 mean that a larger portion of each mortgage payment goes toward interest rather than principal. Getting pre-approved before you start your search is essential so you know exactly what your monthly payment will look like at current rates. A higher down payment can significantly reduce your monthly carrying costs.

Property Taxes

Property tax rates vary by municipality across Durham Region. Scugog Township, Uxbridge Township, and Brock Township each set their own mill rates. Your real estate agent can provide estimated annual property taxes for any property you are considering so you can factor them into your budget.

Insurance and Utilities

Home insurance is mandatory and costs vary based on property type, location, and coverage level. Utilities including hydro, gas, water, and internet can add $400 to $600 per month depending on the size and age of the home. Rural properties may have additional costs for well maintenance, septic system care, and propane or oil heating.

Maintenance and Repairs

Industry guidelines suggest budgeting 1% to 2% of your home's value annually for maintenance and repairs. On a $900,000 home, that is $9,000 to $18,000 per year. Older homes and waterfront properties often have higher maintenance costs, while newer builds may have lower costs in the first few years.

For a personalized breakdown of what homeownership would cost in your target community, request a free home valuation and market analysis. We will walk through the numbers so you can make a fully informed decision.

Market Outlook for the Rest of 2026

The second half of 2026 brings a balanced, more measured market to Durham Region. CLAR's September 2026 report shows 525 sales with the average selling price at $829,993, up 0.8% from August and down about 5.5% from a year earlier, and year-over-year comparisons remain important.

For buyers, this window of seasonal calm and more choice is worth acting on before renewed competition emerges. For sellers, realistic pricing and excellent property presentation are more important than ever.

Whether you are a first-time buyer exploring your options or a homeowner thinking about your next move, we are here to help. Book a free buyer consultation to learn more about the process, and reach out anytime for a no-pressure conversation about your goals.

Want to know exactly what your budget will buy in today's market? We will show you current listings, recent sales, and real costs across Durham Region's communities.

Book a Free Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average home price in Durham Region in 2026?
According to the Central Lakes Association of Realtors (CLAR) September 2026 Housing Market Report, the average selling price in Durham Region was $829,993, up 0.8% from August's $823,153 and down about 5.5% from September 2025. The market remains significantly more affordable than the Greater Toronto Area, making Durham Region an attractive option for buyers seeking value within commuting distance of Toronto.
Are home prices dropping in Port Perry?
The September 2026 CLAR Housing Market Report covers Durham Region as a whole, where the average selling price was $829,993. Scugog-specific figures are published in the same monthly release. Port Perry remains a premium market in Durham Region due to its Lake Scugog waterfront location and historic downtown character. Waterfront properties have held their value better than inland homes, and well-priced listings in family-friendly subdivisions continue to attract strong interest.
Is 2026 a good time to buy in Durham Region?
For buyers, 2026 offers more favourable conditions than the peak of 2024-2025. Durham Region recorded 525 sales in September 2026 with an average selling price of $829,993, and new listings rose about 29% month over month, giving buyers more choice than they had through the summer. A market with more choice means less chance of bidding wars, and motivated sellers are more willing to negotiate on price and conditions. Buyers who are pre-approved and ready to move are well positioned in this market.
What is the most affordable community in Durham Region?
Brock Township is generally known as the most affordable area in Durham Region, and the September 2026 CLAR Housing Market Report covers the region as a whole. It remains an attractive option for buyers seeking waterfront on Lake Scugog or country properties on acreage. Beaverton, Cannington, and Sunderland each offer distinct lifestyles within Brock Township, from lakefront villages to quiet rural communities. Contact us for the latest Brock-specific figures from the monthly CLAR release.
How do mortgage rates affect affordability in 2026?
Higher interest rates in 2026 mean a larger portion of each mortgage payment goes toward interest rather than principal. Buyers should factor current rates into their budget and get pre-approved before starting their search. A higher down payment can help offset the impact of elevated rates on monthly carrying costs. Working with a mortgage broker to explore different rate options and amortization scenarios is an essential first step for any buyer.

Keith Williams

Broker, Willows Realty Group at Royal LePage Frank Real Estate. With 30+ years in Durham Region real estate, Keith and his partner Lisa C. Follows have helped over 1,000 families buy and sell homes across Port Perry, Uxbridge, Brock, and beyond. They hold advanced designations including Master Certified Negotiation Expert (MCNE), Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS), and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES).

About Keith & Lisa

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