Chatham-Kent Association of REALTORS Reports Balanced Market in May 2026

Chatham-Kent Association of REALTORS — May 2026

In May 2026, the Chatham-Kent Association of REALTORS® reported 123 homes sold, a decline of 17.4% from the previous year. The average price of homes sold was $449,553, while new listings surged to 313, marking a historic high for the month.

Market Analysis

The Chatham-Kent real estate market is currently experiencing a balanced condition, characterized by a months of inventory figure of 4.6. This represents an increase from 3.4 months in May 2025, indicating a growing supply of homes relative to demand. The total sales of 123 units in May 2026 are 8.6% below the five-year average and 13.4% below the 10-year average for the month, reflecting a cooling in sales activity compared to previous years. Despite the decline in sales, the year-to-date figures show only a modest decrease of 3.8% from the same period in 2025, suggesting a stabilization in market dynamics after a challenging start to the year.

Property Type Analysis

The property type breakdown reveals that the benchmark price for detached homes stands at $402,500, although specific sales figures for attached/townhouse and apartment categories were not available. The overall trend indicates that while prices are experiencing slight fluctuations, the market remains accessible for buyers, particularly in the detached segment, which continues to dominate sales activity.

Regional Highlights

New listings in May reached an impressive 313, a record for the month and an increase of 11.8% from May 2025. This surge in new inventory has contributed to a significant rise in active listings, which numbered 563 at the end of May, up 11% from the previous year. This influx of listings is 31.4% above the five-year average and 69.1% above the 10-year average, indicating a robust supply that may provide more options for prospective buyers.

For Buyers

For buyers, the current market presents an excellent opportunity to enter or re-enter the housing market. With a balanced market and a growing number of active listings, buyers can take their time to explore various options without the pressure of rapidly rising prices. It is advisable to work closely with a REALTOR® to navigate the available inventory and negotiate favorable terms.

For Sellers

Sellers are encouraged to capitalize on the high number of new listings and the current market conditions. With 313 new listings added in May, it is essential to ensure that properties are competitively priced and well-presented to attract potential buyers. Engaging with a knowledgeable REALTOR® can help sellers effectively position their homes in this balanced market.