Market Insight for Ottawa and Lanark County May 2026

The Ottawa real estate market continues to demonstrate stability through the first five months of 2026. Year to date, 4,842 homes have sold compared to 5,152 during the same period in 2025. Despite the decline in sales activity, average prices have remained steady at $706,182, down just 0.55% from last year’s average of $710,075. Buyer competition has moderated, with 16.2% of homes selling above asking price compared to 21.1% in 2025. Homes are also selling at a similar pace, with the average cumulative days on market sitting at 32 days versus 33 days last year. While buyers appear to be taking a more measured approach, pricing continues to hold firm across the market.

In Lanark, market conditions remain steady with only a slight decrease in sales volume. A total of 479 homes have sold year to date compared to 489 during the same period last year. Average sale prices have increased by 0.86%, rising from $583,361 to $588,401. The percentage of homes selling above asking price has declined from 16.2% to 12.5%, suggesting less competitive bidding conditions than a year ago. Properties are taking a little longer to sell, with average cumulative days on market increasing from 49 to 53 days. Even with a more balanced pace, prices continue to trend upward, reflecting ongoing demand in the region.

Both Ottawa and Lanark are showing signs of a more balanced market in 2026. Sales activity has slowed modestly, and buyers have gained more negotiating power as competition eases. At the same time, home values have remained stable, with Ottawa holding steady and Lanark continuing to post modest price growth. The overall picture points to a healthy market where demand remains present, even as buyers take more time when making purchasing decisions.