August 6, 2026 – There were 1,518 home sales recorded via the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Cornerstone Association of REALTORS® (Cornerstone) in July 2026, representing a 11.0 per cent decrease month-over-month, and a 11.3 per cent decrease year-over-year.
“Sales activity in the summer months tends to be more subdued than in other parts of the year, and July was no exception. Over the past decade, sales in July were not this low except in July 2022, when there were 57 fewer transactions across Cornerstone’s market areas,” said Bill Duce, CEO of Cornerstone. “In terms of the MLS® Home Price Index (HPI), there were minor month-over-month adjustments in each market area and on a year-over-year basis, prices were down in every market. Aside from Haldimand County and Norfolk County, new listings and inventory levels have continued to decline compared with the same period last year. Real estate is local, and there are opportunities for buyers and sellers in every local community. Each neighbourhood has varied activity levels and a unique outlook, which highlights the importance of working with a local REALTOR® who knows the local market.”
The HPI composite benchmark dipped slightly in each market on a month-over-month basis, apart from Haldimand County, which saw no adjustment. Each major Cornerstone market also experienced a year-over-year decline.
The Composite MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Benchmark Price by market area:
| Area | HPI Benchmark July 2026 | Monthly % Change | Yr./Yr. % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burlington | $874,200 | -0.8% | -2.8% |
| Cambridge | $662,100 | -1.3% | -6.3% |
| Haldimand County | $644,900 | 0.0% | -5.4% |
| Hamilton | $673,900 | -1.3% | -6.0% |
| Kitchener-Waterloo | $633,300 | -1.3% | -5.5% |
| Mississauga | $924,400 | -3.0% | -5.6% |
| Niagara North | $676,500 | -0.5% | -8.0% |
| Norfolk County | $550,600 | -2.4% | -3.9% |
There were 3,139 new listings added to Cornerstone’s MLS® System last month, a decline of 16.4 per cent from the previous month and 15.0 per cent from July 2025.
The total inventory across Cornerstone’s market areas decreased 5.0 per cent from the previous month and dropped 9.6 per cent year-over-year. There was a 4.6-month supply at the end of July, representing a 2.1 per cent decrease year-over-year. The number of months of inventory represents the time it would take to sell the current inventory at the current sales rate.
In July, the average days on the market across all Cornerstone market areas was 38, compared to 34 days in June 2026 and 36 days in July 2025.
For in-depth market coverage, please follow these links:
Links to monthly Market Indicator Reports will be posted on the 5th of each month
Cornerstone cautions that average sale price information can help identify long-term trends but should not indicate that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average sale price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Months' Supply is the inventory of homes for sale at the end of a given month, divided by the average monthly closed sales from the last 12 months. Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®. Local REALTORS® have their fingers on the pulse of the market. They know the questions to ask, the areas to probe and what to look for to get a complete picture of the property and community you’re considering.
Crystal Henderson, Chief Stakeholder Officer
Cornerstone Association of REALTORS® (Cornerstone) is a not-for-profit organization with over 325 years of collective service from its founding associations.
Established on July 1, 2024, Cornerstone leads with purpose, advocates boldly, and creates positive change for the success of our members throughout Burlington, Haldimand County, Hamilton, Mississauga, Niagara North, Norfolk County, Waterloo Region and surrounding areas.
With approximately 7,500 members, Cornerstone is the second-largest REALTOR® association in Ontario, dedicated to promoting the greater good of the real estate community.
More information at www.cornerstone.inc
The trademarks REALTOR®, REALTORS®, and the REALTOR® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA.
The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license.
