Written by Crosbie DesBrisay
Apartment Market Update: First Half Results and Outlook for the balance of 2026
Introduction
Multifamily transaction activity has seen a slight increase through the first half of 2026 when compared to 2025. However, the market continued to be selective and highly sensitive to pricing. Buyers have placed greater emphasis on current income, financing costs, and the ability of a property to support its value without relying on aggressive future growth. Properties brought to market closer to current value have attracted stronger interest and more competitive sales processes. Buildings with stable income, limited near term capital requirements, or longer-term redevelopment potential that also pencil out based on the current income continue to appeal to investors. Looking ahead, financing conditions and interest rate expectations will remain important influences on transaction activity. Most major Canadian banks currently expect the Bank of Canada to hold its overnight rate through the balance of 2026. We expect activity to continue, but with the strongest results reserved for well positioned properties supported by clear financial information and realistic pricing.
