Now that March is almost over and we seem to be easing into some warmer weather, it appears that Toronto’s real estate market has a bit more “spring” in its step. The Globe reported this week that Toronto has 104 construction cranes, the most tower cranes of any North American city. The next closest city was Seattle with 59 cranes. A tally of cranes in major cities provides a snapshot of economic sentiment. Based on this consulting firm’s findings, no North American city is healthier than Toronto. Just simply look up!

The freehold sector has witnessed its biggest increase of the year with listings up a whopping 117% throughout all neighbourhoods in Toronto. We aren’t surprised that would happen now that we are all back from spring break. Again, it’s the price range between $700,000 and $1,500,000 that dominates, although last week there were over 80 properties listed above $1.5M. There is still a bit of catching up to do on the sales side, however. Sold properties were down 14% week-over-week, but that should change next week now that we have more listings.

Again, a similar market exists in the resale condominium sector. Listings were up last week by 18% and the biggest jump happened in the central core’s first-time buyer’s price range of condos listed between $400K and $700K. Sales have been trending upwards as well, and we are still reporting close to 52% of condo transactions selling at or above the list price which points to continued strength in the high-rise market.