8 Banks Court, Keystone Village

There are houses that have simply been maintained, and then there are houses where you can see the pride of ownership in almost every detail.

8 Banks Court is firmly the latter.

Built by Webby Construction, this six-level side split has the kind of solid construction that is increasingly difficult to find. From 2x10 floor joists and tongue-and-groove subflooring topped with plywood to carefully considered updates and preventative maintenance, this is a home that has been understood and cared for by an owner who pays attention to the details.

The Heart of the Home

The main level immediately shows that same thoughtfulness.

A large foyer leads into a custom kitchen designed to be as functional as it is attractive, with granite countertops, quality Kenmore appliances and clever built-in drawers and storage solutions. There’s a casual dining nook with patio doors overlooking the backyard, while an adjacent laundry room and powder room provide direct access outside.

And then there’s the dining room.

It is enormous.

With a coffered ceiling and enough room for the kind of family gatherings usually reserved for a Home Alone movie, this is a house that was made to have people over.

A Place to Gather — or Get Away

A few steps up, the bright and spacious living room introduces another level of finish with beautiful Jatoba hardwood—an exceptionally dense Brazilian hardwood prized for its durability, rich colour and character.

The room is centred around the fireplace, bookended by two windows that bring in plenty of natural light and create a natural focal point.

Continue upstairs and three generously sized bedrooms offer plenty of room for a growing family, each with excellent storage, alongside a large renovated four-piece bathroom.

One level higher again, the top floor provides another flexible space that could easily become a fourth bedroom, home office, playroom, gym or quiet retreat.

Six Levels Start to Make a Lot of Sense

The lower levels are where the versatility of this six-level design really starts to show.

A bright family room features a custom window bringing in an abundance of natural light, with a propane fireplace and enough space to create a dedicated TV area while still leaving room for games, toys or a second sitting area.

Below that are two additional rooms, freshly painted with new flooring and ready to adapt to whatever you need next—a home gym, workshop, hobby room or additional storage.

It’s the advantage of a house with this much separation: everyone can find their own space without feeling disconnected from the rest of the home.

The Details You Don’t See in the Photos

Behind the scenes, the same attention to detail continues.

A five-zone oil boiler provides hot-water heating, complemented by three heat-pump heads for efficient heating and cooling. The home has 200-amp electrical service and is EV-charger ready, while its security system goes beyond the usual basics to monitor for oil and water leaks as well as changes in temperature.

These aren't necessarily the glamorous details, but they tell you a lot about how seriously this home has been cared for.

Privacy in the Backyard

Outside, the 7,596 sq. ft. lot offers plenty of privacy, surrounded by mature trees with a new composite deck creating an easy extension of the living space.

It’s somewhere for summer dinners, kids in the backyard or simply sitting outside without feeling like you’re sitting alongside the neighbours.

Life in Keystone Village

And for a home designed around family life, the location fits.

Banks Court offers the quiet, low-traffic setting of a cul-de-sac in established Keystone Village, with parks, playgrounds, public transit and recreation nearby. Shubie Park is just minutes away, while Dartmouth Crossing and the broader shopping and amenities of Dartmouth remain easily accessible.

Families also have access to English, French Immersion and CSAP school options in the surrounding area.

A Home That Has Been Cared For

At 45 years old, 8 Banks Court has been continually cared for without losing what made it such a well-built home in the first place.

Six distinct levels give a growing family room to spread out without losing connection—multiple living spaces, bedrooms together, room to work and play, a private backyard and the flexibility to change as family life does.

This isn't simply a house with a long list of features.

It’s a home where the quality of the original build and the care invested in it since are both immediately apparent.

Some homes simply feel different. This is one of them.

Questions About This Home?

Contact Chris Perkins to learn more or arrange a private showing. Thinking about making a move but need to sell your current home first? Need an introduction to a trusted mortgage specialist? Chris can help coordinate the pieces and make your next move as seamless and stress-free as possible.

Contact Chris

Living on the Halifax Peninsula has its perks — walkable neighbourhoods, great local shops and restaurants, easy access to downtown and a lifestyle that keeps you connected to the city. The challenge? Finding enough space at a price that still makes sense.

That’s where 5817 Gainsborough Place stands out: three bedrooms, three levels of living space, a move-in-ready interior and Bedford Basin views, all at a more approachable price point.

Just minutes from the Hydrostone, you can grab a coffee, pick up dinner, browse the local shops or spend an afternoon at nearby Fort Needham Memorial Park. It’s a location that keeps you close to everything while still feeling removed from the pace of downtown.

Then there’s the view.

With patios on every level and extra windows thanks to its end-unit position, the home makes the most of its setting overlooking the Bedford Basin. The real payoff comes at the end of the day, when the sky lights up over the water and you can watch some pretty spectacular sunsets without leaving home.

Inside, there’s room to actually live. Three levels create separation when you want it, with three bedrooms, a family room, dedicated living and dining spaces, and plenty of storage. The third bedroom also lends itself perfectly to a home office if you don’t need all three.

And this isn’t an affordable home that comes with an immediate renovation list.

It’s freshly painted throughout, with a refurbished kitchen featuring new counters, sink, stove and contemporary subway tile backsplash. The bathrooms have also been updated with a new tub, ceramic flooring and vanity. Deeded underground parking and your own storage unit add another layer of everyday convenience.

5817 Gainsborough Place is ultimately about getting more for your money — three bedrooms, plenty of space, water views and a move-in-ready home, all within easy reach of the Hydrostone and everything that makes Peninsula living so appealing.

View the Listing Here

A little more home, without a lot more mortgage.

There comes a point when having more house stops feeling like a luxury and starts feeling like a list.

The yard needs attention. Something needs painting. There’s always another room to clean, another project waiting for a weekend, another thing that comes with owning a home you may simply no longer need.

Unit 206 at The Carlyle offers a different proposition: keep the space and comfort you enjoy, and leave much of the maintenance behind.

At approximately 1,220 square feet, this isn’t about squeezing your life into a tiny condo. There’s room for a proper dining table, full-sized living room furniture and overnight guests. Two bedrooms and two full bathrooms give you flexibility for visiting family and friends, a home office, or simply a little extra room to yourself.

The main living space is particularly lovely. Nine-foot ceilings and a wall of windows bring in an abundance of natural light, with a leafy outlook that keeps the home connected to the neighbourhood outside. The kitchen has been thoughtfully opened to the living and dining areas and updated with new countertops and backsplash, plenty of cabinetry, peninsula seating and a separate pantry.

Storage — often one of the compromises of downsizing — has been considered too. There’s a generous walk-in closet in the primary suite, plenty of additional closet space throughout, separate storage and an unusually large kitchen pantry.

Both bathrooms have been updated, with the ensuite offering an accessible walk-in tub and built-in dressing vanity. There’s even the potential to add in-suite laundry, subject to board approval.

And then there are all the things you don’t have to look after.

Underground parking means no scraping snow from the car in February. Heat and hot water are included in the condo fees. The building offers a gym, common room and bike storage, while a backup generator servicing the elevator adds another layer of practicality and peace of mind.

Perhaps the greatest convenience, though, is outside the building.

From The Carlyle, Dalhousie, the hospitals, downtown, cafés, restaurants and everyday amenities are all within easy walking distance. You can leave the car downstairs and simply get on with your day.

Because a move like this shouldn’t be about having less. It should be about having less to look after.

A comfortable home with room for the things and people that matter, in a neighbourhood where much of what you need is already within reach. Lock the door, head out for the day, travel for a month, or stay home and enjoy that wall of windows.

The house can look after itself. And maybe that’s the real luxury of downsizing.

View the listing here

Contact Chris Perkins at 902 210 1223 or chrisperkins@cbmaritime.ca to obtain more information, or to book a private viewing. 

Welcome to 100 Bayview Road, a distinctive home with unmistakable mid-century modern influences, a flexible layout, and the potential for a fully self-contained in-law suite on the walkout lower level. Whether you're looking for space for extended family, a mortgage helper, or simply room to spread out, this is a property that offers options.

Lovingly maintained over the years, the home has seen numerous updates, including a roof replacement in 2015, ductless heat pump in 2021, updated flooring throughout the main and upper levels, fresh paint, and window replacements. The exterior was also largely replaced in 2024, providing peace of mind for years to come.

The main level features a bright living room with soaring ceilings and large windows that fill the space with natural light. A versatile sitting area opens onto a private, sun-filled deck, while the renovated kitchen connects seamlessly to the dining area and provides convenient access to the covered carport and additional storage.

Upstairs, the home's unique curved staircase leads to a functional office nook, a spacious primary bedroom with walk-in closet and renovated ensuite, two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, and conveniently located laundry.

The walkout lower level offers exceptional flexibility with its own entrance, two bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a large rec room complete with kitchenette—ideal for extended family, guests, or potential rental income.

Located in a family-friendly neighbourhood, you're close to everyday amenities, within walking distance of elementary and junior high schools, and only a short drive to downtown Halifax, Dartmouth, Burnside, and Bedford.

A home with character, versatility, and substantial updates already completed, 100 Bayview Road is well worth a closer look.

Inquire with Chris Perkins for more details or to book a private tour.

Full Listing

Despite April's numbers bucking the trend with a price jump that made very little sense when compared to the rest of the data, the market now appears to be settling into what I expected to happen. Global events have driven up the cost of nearly everything, creating affordability concerns and uncertainty about what comes next. Rising fuel costs have contributed to renewed inflationary pressure, and it is widely expected that the Bank of Canada will increase interest rates two or three more times before the end of the year.

What does that mean for the housing market?

For the first time since 2019, the single-family home market has moved into balanced territory, with 3.3 months of supply. In simple terms, if no new homes were listed, it would take 3.3 months to sell everything currently available at today's pace of sales. A market with between three and six months of supply is generally considered balanced, where sellers need to be realistic with pricing because buyers have more choice—and therefore more negotiating power.

This shift is being driven by two factors. The number of homes for sale has increased by nearly 20%, while sales activity has declined by approximately 10%. The impact on prices wasn't immediate, largely because May and June are traditionally the strongest months of the year. However, as we move into the second half of the year and seasonal activity naturally slows, I expect market conditions to soften further, with additional downward pressure on prices as broader economic concerns continue to influence buyer behaviour.

The condo market faces even greater challenges. We currently have 5.2 months of supply, putting the market on the verge of favouring buyers. The last time we saw inventory levels like this was in 2018, before the pandemic changed everything.

For condo sellers, pricing strategy is becoming increasingly important. This doesn't mean giving a property away, but it does mean positioning it at a price point that gives buyers a compelling reason to act. With affordability top of mind, condo fees are receiving more scrutiny than ever. Higher fees, often driven by increased maintenance and operating costs, can quickly become a barrier for buyers. The most effective way to overcome that objection is to ensure the overall value proposition—including price—makes sense.

A balanced market isn't a bad thing, but it does require a thoughtful strategy to maximize your property's value.

I've been selling real estate for 18 years through a wide range of market conditions. While working in Alberta, I helped clients navigate an oil price collapse that was wiping as much as $10,000 off home values every month—and that's not an exaggeration. By comparison, today's market is one I can navigate with confidence.

If you're feeling uncertain about what comes next, or simply want an honest assessment of your options, I'm always happy to help you make the most of your next move.

Interested in Selling Your Home in 2026?

I can help you navigate the complexities of the current market with calm and confidence. Request your free home evaluation to learn about your equity and what to do with it.

Request Your Free Home Evaluation

There are certain addresses that simply sound like they belong on the water.

11 Yacht Club Road is one of them.

Set directly on the shores of Hubbards Bay, this extensively upgraded oceanside property captures everything people dream about when they picture coastal Nova Scotia living. Sailboats drifting across the harbour. Sunsets dancing on the water. Evenings around the fire table after long days on the ocean. The kind of lifestyle that feels like a permanent escape — yet remains only 30 minutes from downtown Halifax.

And in a community like Hubbards, that balance matters. Known for its vibrant marina culture, iconic Shore Club dances, waterfront dining at Tuna Blue and easy access to beaches, farmers markets and boating, Hubbards has long been one of Nova Scotia’s most beloved seaside communities. It offers energy when you want it and peace when you need it. At 11 Yacht Club Road, you experience both.

Main Living Space: Bright, open and renovated

The home itself has undergone substantial modernization over the past three years, blending thoughtful upgrades with the warmth and character expected from an oceanfront retreat. From the moment you step inside, the bay becomes the focal point. A dramatic wall of windows and soaring 20-foot ceilings flood the main living area with natural light while framing panoramic water views from nearly every angle.

The living room is anchored by a WETT-certified wood-burning fireplace, creating an atmosphere that feels equally suited for lively gatherings or quiet winter evenings by the fire.

The recently renovated kitchen was designed with entertaining in mind. Upgraded counters, backsplash, peninsula cabinetry, new appliances and a five-burner gas range create abundant prep and gathering space while maintaining seamless connection to the dining area and outdoor living spaces beyond.

Outside: Where 11 Yacht Club Road truly begins to shine

The wraparound deck with infinity glass railing was designed to maximize both sunshine and scenery throughout the day. Whether you’re hosting friends beneath the covered cook station, grilling fresh local seafood, or enjoying a quiet glass of wine beside the propane fire table, the setting constantly reminds you why waterfront living never goes out of style.

Upstairs: Some of the best views in the home

A loft overlooks the main living space, and provides the perfect spot to read, work remotely, or simply watch boats move through the bay. A sliding barn door allows the space to easily function as additional guest accommodation when needed. The primary suite continues the home’s thoughtful design with two walk-in closets and a beautifully updated ensuite featuring a custom rain shower.

Lower Level: Even more flexibility

With a separate entrance, additional bedroom and ensuite bath, rec room space, office potential and built-in mini bar, the setup lends itself naturally to Airbnb income, visiting guests, or multi-generational living.

Garage: Endless opportunities

Then there’s the garage — and calling it “just a garage” would undersell it entirely.

With its own 200 AMP electrical service, separate meter, compressor and welding hookups, integrated shipping container storage and extensive workspace infrastructure, this detached building creates endless opportunity for hobbyists, entrepreneurs, car enthusiasts or anyone seeking serious functional space alongside their home.

What makes this property particularly compelling is how comprehensively the major systems have already been addressed. From upgraded electrical and plumbing systems to heat pumps, insulation improvements, water treatment upgrades and EV readiness, the heavy lifting has already been done.

The result is a property that delivers the charm and romance of classic Nova Scotia waterfront living without sacrificing the comfort, efficiency and functionality expected from a modern home.

At its heart, 11 Yacht Club Road is about lifestyle.

Morning coffee overlooking the marina. Boats gliding through Hubbards Bay. Bonfires after beach days. Quiet winter storms viewed from beside the fire. Summer evenings on the deck long after the sun goes down.

It’s the kind of property that doesn’t simply offer a place to live. It offers a way to live.

Check out the full listing here

Inquire with Chris Perkins for more details or to book a private tour.

A Shifting Global Landscape

There’s no ignoring it—global uncertainty is rising.

With escalating tensions surrounding the Iran conflict, we’re already seeing ripple effects across the global economy. One of the most immediate and noticeable impacts is on energy markets. Oil prices are climbing, and with that comes a familiar chain reaction: higher fuel costs, increased transportation expenses, and ultimately, rising prices on everyday goods.

Closer to home, Canadians are beginning to feel that pressure at the pumps and in their monthly expenses. And historically, when the cost of living rises quickly, consumer confidence softens, spending slows, and the broader economy begins to cool.

That’s where recession concerns start to enter the conversation.

Why Rising Costs Often Lead to Economic Slowdowns

This pattern isn’t new—it’s economic cause and effect.

As fuel prices increase:

• The cost to move goods rises

• Businesses pass those costs onto consumers

• Household expenses climb across the board

In response, people naturally pull back on discretionary spending. Large purchases—like homes—can be delayed. Businesses become more cautious. Growth slows.

It’s a cycle we’ve seen before, and it’s reasonable to expect some level of economic softening if these global pressures persist.

But Real Estate Is Local—And Halifax Has a Unique Advantage

While global forces shape the broader economy, real estate is fundamentally local.

And right now, Halifax is operating from a position of strength.

Recent data highlighted in coverage from Statistics Canada and reported through outlets like CBC News shows that Atlantic Canadian cities—led by Halifax—are growing at a pace that exceeds the national average.

This isn’t accidental. It’s the result of several powerful, overlapping trends:

• Strong immigration (both international and interprovincial)

• Relative affordability compared to larger Canadian markets

• A lifestyle shift toward smaller, more livable cities

Population growth is one of the most reliable drivers of housing demand—and Halifax has it.

A Stable Economic Backbone: Defence Spending and Government Investment

Layered on top of population growth is something even more important: economic stability.

A recent federal announcement led by Mark Carney confirmed approximately $2 billion in defence-related spending tied to Nova Scotia, reinforcing Halifax’s role as a strategic military and naval hub.

This matters more than it might seem at first glance.

Government spending—particularly in defence and infrastructure—tends to be:

• Long-term

• Predictable

• Resistant to economic cycles

It supports steady employment across skilled trades, engineering, and support industries. It attracts workers to the region and keeps them here.

In uncertain economic times, that kind of stability becomes incredibly valuable.

What This Means for Halifax Real Estate

When you step back and look at the full picture, something important emerges.

Yes, there are global pressures:

• Rising fuel costs

• Inflationary impacts

• Potential economic slowdown

But at the same time, Halifax is benefiting from:

• Sustained population growth

• Increased federal investment

• A diversified and stable employment base

These factors don’t eliminate risk—but they do create resilience.

In practical terms:

For Sellers

• Demand is still being supported by population growth

• Inventory constraints remain a factor

• Well-positioned homes continue to attract strong interest

For Buyers

• While borrowing costs and economic sentiment matter, Halifax remains a market with long-term upside

• Entering the market during periods of uncertainty can present opportunity

The Bigger Picture

Markets don’t move in isolation.

Global events will always influence sentiment, interest rates, and economic activity. But the strength of a real estate market comes down to fundamentals—and Halifax’s fundamentals are improving, not weakening.

Population growth and government investment are not short-term trends. They are structural shifts.

And those shifts are helping position Halifax as one of the more resilient real estate markets in Canada today.

Final Thoughts

Uncertainty creates hesitation—but it also creates perspective.

While global headlines may point to volatility, the local story here in Halifax is one of growth, stability, and long-term confidence.

If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply trying to understand how these broader economic forces may impact your real estate decisions, I’m always available for a conversation.

Chris Perkins
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
📍 Halifax, Nova Scotia
🌐 www.soldbyperkins.com

Rare End-Unit Townhouse in the Heart of Halifax

Welcome to 5230 Nora Bernard Street, a unique opportunity to own a spacious, character-filled townhouse in one of Halifax’s most vibrant and evolving neighbourhoods. Tucked within the boutique Akins Court community, this end-unit home blends historic surroundings with modern updates—offering a lifestyle that’s both connected and private.

Spanning three levels, this bright and airy home features three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, with windows on multiple sides that flood the space with natural light. Thoughtfully updated with new flooring, fresh paint, and renovated bathrooms, the home strikes a perfect balance between contemporary comfort and timeless character.

Main Living Space: Bright, Open & Inviting

The main level is designed for both everyday living and entertaining, with an open-concept layout that feels spacious and welcoming. Large windows enhance the natural light, while the flow between living, dining, and kitchen spaces creates a seamless environment for hosting or relaxing at home.

Three Levels of Functional Living

One of the standout features of this property is its three-level layout, offering a level of space and separation rarely found in downtown Halifax.

Upstairs, the bedroom level provides comfortable accommodations for families, professionals, or those needing extra space for a home office. The updated bathrooms add a modern touch, while maintaining the home’s overall character and warmth.

Outdoor Living: Private & Peaceful

Step outside to your own private retreat. The walk-out patio and courtyard offer the perfect setting for morning coffee, summer evenings, or entertaining guests.

Unlike typical downtown living, this home provides a sense of privacy and calm—tucked away from the bustle, yet still right in the heart of the city.

A Rare Find: Two Underground Parking Spaces

In a location where parking is often a challenge, this property truly stands out with two underground parking stalls—a highly sought-after feature that adds everyday convenience and long-term value.

Location: Walkable, Connected & Growing

Situated just steps from St. George’s Round Church, this home places you within a short walk of:

• Downtown Halifax

• The Halifax Commons

• Agricola Street’s cafés, restaurants, and local shops

With the ongoing Cogswell District redevelopment, this area is becoming even more connected and walkable—making it an excellent choice for both homeowners and investors looking toward the future.

Downtown Living, Done Properly

What makes this home truly special is how it lives. It offers the feel of a freehold property—no elevators, no long hallways—just direct access, privacy, and space, all within the urban core.

Opportunities like this are rare. A home that delivers this level of size, character, and location is something you don’t come across often in downtown Halifax.

Inquire with Chris Perkins for more details or to book a private tour.

🏡 Single Family Homes – Steady, Tight, and Still Seller-Leaning

In February 2026, there were 223 single-family home sales, down from 264 in February 2025. That’s a noticeable dip in volume year over year—but not dramatic.

The average price softened slightly to $620,444, compared to $625,104 last year. That’s essentially flat in the broader context, especially considering economic uncertainty and interest rate conversations that continue to shape buyer psychology.

On the supply side:

• New listings dropped from 357 to 314

• Active inventory edged up slightly from 669 to 676

• Months of supply sits at 1.9, nearly identical to last year

What does that mean?

We are still firmly in a seller-favoured market.

Anything under 3–4 months of supply typically indicates upward pricing pressure, and at 1.9 months, inventory remains tight. Well-prepared, well-priced homes are still attracting strong interest—especially in desirable neighbourhoods and price bands.

That said, buyers are more measured than they were during peak frenzy years. Strategy matters more now. Overpricing is being exposed quickly. Preparation and positioning remain everything.

🏙️ Condos – Price Spike, But There’s Context

The condo numbers look exciting at first glance.

The average condo price jumped to $492,599, up from $475,491 a year ago.

However, context is important.

Sales volume was relatively low, and the average was skewed upward by several luxury sales over $1M—including a $2.5M sale at The Roy (The Roy).

When high-end units trade in a smaller data set, they can disproportionately move the average. This doesn’t necessarily mean every condo has appreciated by that margin.

Inventory tells a slightly different story:

• 184 condos currently for sale in HRM

• Up from 144 a year ago

• Months of supply: 3.4

While inventory remains elevated year over year, it appears to be trending downward. At 3.4 months of supply, we’re in a more balanced environment compared to detached homes.

This means:

• Buyers have more choice.

• Sellers need to be sharp on pricing and presentation.

• Luxury product can still perform extremely well.

So, What’s the Big Picture?

Here’s what February tells us:

• The detached market remains tight and competitive.

• The condo market is stabilizing, with premium units driving headline numbers.

• Inventory is not flooding the market.

• We are not in a downturn—but we are in a more strategic market.

For sellers, this is not 2021.
For buyers, this is not a crash.

It’s a market that rewards preparation, pricing discipline, and strong negotiation.

My Perspective

From what I’m seeing on the ground here in Halifax, motivated buyers are still transacting. Sellers who understand positioning are still achieving strong outcomes. The key difference in 2026?

The margin for error is smaller.

If you're thinking about:

• Selling in the spring market

• Upgrading or downsizing

• Evaluating your condo’s value

• Or simply understanding where you stand

It’s worth having a conversation grounded in data—not headlines.

As always, my role is to empower you with the information, strategy, and professional advice you need to make the best move possible.

If you’d like a personalized market analysis for your property, I’m happy to put one together.

— Chris

In a recent Global News Morning interview with Paul Brothers, I provided a current Halifax real estate market update for 2026. We discussed how the latest market data shows stability and confidence in the single-family home segment, while the condo market continues to adjust and present opportunities for buyers. The conversation focused on what these trends mean for both buyers and sellers here in Halifax, offering insight into pricing dynamics, demand shifts, and where the market appears to be headed as we move further into 2026.

January’s market data reinforces a trend we’ve been discussing for some time now: consistency in the single-family home market and ongoing adjustment in the condo segment. While the headlines may change month to month, the underlying patterns are becoming clearer — and that clarity matters for buyers and sellers making decisions in 2026.

Let’s break down what the numbers are telling us and, more importantly, what they mean for homeowners and buyers across the Halifax region.

Single-Family Homes: Stability Builds Confidence

The single-family market continues to demonstrate resilience and predictability — two characteristics that are critical for long-term confidence.

In January, the average sale price came in at $619,309, slightly lower than December but still higher than this time last year. Sales activity strengthened meaningfully with 230 homes sold, up both month-over-month and year-over-year. Inventory levels remained controlled, with 2.1 months of supply, keeping the market firmly in seller-leaning territory.

New listings rebounded sharply following the typical December slowdown, landing almost exactly where they were this time last year. This tells us something important: the market is behaving normally again.

That predictability is healthy. When prices move within a narrow range, inventory is absorbed steadily, and sales volumes remain consistent, buyers are more willing to engage and sellers are more comfortable listing their homes. As confidence builds, activity tends to follow.

Looking ahead, this environment should set the stage for a busy and competitive Spring market, particularly for well-prepared and correctly priced homes. While we are unlikely to see the volatility of past cycles, strong demand paired with limited supply continues to support values.

Condos: A Market Still Searching for Balance

The condo market tells a very different story.

January’s average condo price declined to $458,118, down from both the previous month and from a year ago. Inventory remains elevated, with 175 units for sale and 3.6 months of supply, well above last year’s levels. While sales activity improved month-over-month, overall demand has not kept pace with supply.

This imbalance has created downward pressure on pricing and greater variability in outcomes. Some properties are selling well when priced strategically, while others struggle when expectations are not aligned with market realities.

That said, markets rarely move in a straight line. As prices adjust, condos will eventually reach a point where they represent a compelling alternative to single-family homes — particularly for first-time buyers, downsizers, and value-focused purchasers. When affordability improves enough, demand tends to return quickly.

For 2026, I expect the condo market to remain uneven but more stable than in the previous year, as pricing becomes clearer and buyer expectations recalibrate.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For single-family homeowners, the message is encouraging. The market remains supportive, but success still depends on thoughtful preparation, accurate pricing, and professional marketing. Stability does not eliminate competition — it rewards strategy.

For condo sellers, realism is essential. Pricing aggressively or relying on last year’s numbers can lead to extended days on market. In today’s environment, the first few weeks of exposure matter more than ever.

For buyers, opportunity looks different depending on the segment. Single-family buyers should be prepared for competition, while condo buyers may find greater negotiating leverage and long-term value if guided properly.

Final Thoughts

Markets don’t reward guesswork — they reward informed decision-making.

January’s data reinforces a clear takeaway:
single-family homes are benefiting from consistency and confidence, while condos are still in a period of adjustment and opportunity creation.

At Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty, my role is to interpret these shifts clearly, set expectations early, and help clients move forward with confidence — regardless of market conditions.

If you’re considering a move in 2026 and want to understand how these trends affect your specific situation, a personalized market strategy is always the best place to start.

—

Chris Perkins
Broker/Owner, Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
902 210 1223
chrisperkins@cbmaritime.ca

Nova Scotia has introduced a new First-Time Home Buyers Program (Pilot) that could help many renters become homeowners much sooner than they thought possible. The upside is clear: lower upfront costs, less money needed for a down payment, and major savings by avoiding mortgage insurance.

But like most well-intentioned housing programs, there’s another side to the story. While this program helps buyers get into the market faster, it does not create more homes — and that matters in a market where competition is already intense.

Before you decide whether this program is right for you, it’s important to understand how it works, who it helps most, and where the risks lie.

What Is the First-Time Home Buyers Program?

This pilot program, launched by the Government of Nova Scotia, is designed to help first-time buyers who can afford monthly mortgage payments but struggle to save a traditional down payment.

Instead of needing 5% or more down, eligible buyers may be able to purchase a home with as little as 2% down through participating credit unions across the province.

Even more importantly, buyers using this program do not pay mortgage insurance, which is typically required when you put less than 20% down.

Why Mortgage Insurance Matters (A Lot)

Mortgage insurance is one of the most misunderstood costs of buying a home.

Normally, when a buyer puts less than 20% down:

• Mortgage insurance is mandatory

• The premium is added directly to the mortgage

• It often costs $10,000 or more, depending on the purchase price

Under this program:

• The Province provides a guarantee instead of mortgage insurance

• That premium does not get added to your loan

• Your mortgage balance starts lower than it otherwise would

This means that although you’re starting with less equity because of the smaller down payment, much of that difference is offset by not financing a large insurance premium.

Who Is This Program Designed For?

In simple terms, this program is for people who:

• Are first-time home buyers

• Have stable income and can afford monthly payments

• Have struggled to save a full down payment

• Plan to live in the home as their primary residence

The program applies only in Nova Scotia and is accessed through participating credit unions, not directly through the government.

The Big Picture: How This Impacts the Market

To understand the broader impact, it helps to look at where most buyers are shopping.

In the Halifax Regional Municipality:

• Roughly 50% of all home sales occur between $400,000 and $600,000

• This price range is already the most competitive segment of the market

• Many first-time buyers are competing for the same limited inventory

This program makes it easier for more buyers to enter that same price range — but it does not add new housing supply. Learn more about the program here: First-time Homebuyers Program: pilot project - Government of Nova Scotia, Canada

My Professional Take

This program will absolutely help first-time buyers in the short term.

It allows people who can genuinely afford to own a home — but who can’t quite accumulate a down payment — to enter the market sooner. The savings from avoiding mortgage insurance alone are significant and shouldn’t be overlooked.

That said, there is also risk.

By removing barriers to entry without increasing housing supply, this program has the potential to:

• Increase competition in the most active price ranges

• Push prices higher more quickly over time

• Make affordability challenges worse for future buyers

In my view, the only sustainable way to improve housing affordability is by adding more inventory — more homes, more density, and more supply options that meet real demand.

This program is a helpful tool, especially right now. But it’s not a long-term solution on its own.

Written by Chris Perkins, Broker/Owner
902 210 1223
chrisperkins@cbmaritime.ca
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty