The Next Generation of Luxury Real Estate Buyers
Until recently, luxury real estate buyers have found inspiration in properties with a sense of grandeur. Whether via a stately home in a major city or an idyllic cottage country retreat or a tropical paradise in a far flung corner of the globe, these buyers have opted for spaciousness and homes that mirror their success.
The next generation of luxury real estate buyers is redefining the priorities of home ownership. Now in their twenties and thirties, millennials comprise the largest living demographic in North America. With the help of an impending wealth transfer from their baby boomer parents, millennials make up half of the 32% of Canadians who are likely to purchase a home in the next two years. The share of home sales to first-time buyers recently hit a 17 year high.
The most affluent millennial home buyers entering the luxury property real estate market in 2018 are not looking for a 10,000 square foot gated manor. It appears that for today’s purchasers, experiences are more important than objects and that penchant carries through in everything from the luxury properties they prefer to their expectation about their relationship with their realtor.
Emerging real estate buyers think of a luxury property as a journey rather than as a destination. In its 2017 study of the emerging luxury market, Alex Irish & Associates discovered that while spending on personal goods has decreased, spending on ‘experiences’ such as travel, evening’s out, spa breaks, etc., is on the rise. The perfect home is less about the things in it and more about how it will fit into the buyer’s daily life. Listings that show how a property supports a lifestyle are becoming more successful than those that simply list a multitude of amenities.
A home with a backyard isn’t just more land – it is a place for picnics and outdoor entertaining. An updated bathroom may be just a feature but a spa-like oasis for a relaxing bath at the end of a long work day is infinitely more appealing.
As always, location is critical. Whereas past generations have moved away from urban centres, millennials are making a return to city life. A smaller home located in an interesting up-and-coming neighbourhood is more appealing to today’s buyers than a larger luxury property in the suburbs.
A property with a story to tell can be as appealing to buyers as a brand-new build. Was the loft a brewery in the 1920’s? Was the house built by someone prominent? A home becomes part of the buyer’s personal narrative, so heritage status, interesting histories, and thoughtful architectural details are all selling points. An updated kitchen, original hardwood floors and plenty of natural light all show well in photos on social media.
The cost of housing in Canada has increased much more rapidly than the average salary which is why millennials are looking for a home that can adapt and meet their needs over time. The next generation of luxury real estate buyers are looking for the next chapter in their life story. Where their predecessors were wooed by new windows, finished lower levels, extra bedrooms – today’s luxury property purchasers are more interested in updated chef’s kitchens, exposed brick detailing, location and walkability.
Whether You Are Considering Selling Or Leasing A Home Or Condo, Alex Irish & Associates Offer An Unparalleled Level of Service, Discretion And Marketing Regardless Of Price Point Or Locale.
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August 2025 GTA Real Estate Market Update | Regan Irish
The August 2025 GTA Real Estate Market Update reflects renewed momentum and affordability in Toronto, Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington, and Muskoka. Thanks to steady interest rates and appealing home prices, July proved surprisingly dynamic. Let’s dig into the numbers and what they mean for you.
Interest Rates Remain Stable — Affordability Fueling Activity
In July 2025, the Bank of Canada maintained its key rate at 2.75%, its third consecutive pause. With lower borrowing costs now more accessible, affordability is encouraging a wave of renewed buyer activity.
GTA Market Overview: Sales Surge, Prices Slightly Dip
- Home Sales: 6,100+ transactions region-wide, marking a 10.9% increase YoY and the strongest July since 2021.
- Month-over-Month: Seasonally adjusted sales rose 13% from June to approximately 5,744 units, the biggest monthly gain in nine months.
- New Listings: Up 5.7% YoY, totaling 17,613 new offers.
- Price Trends:
- The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Composite Benchmark fell 5.4% YoY.
- The average GTA selling price dropped 5.5% YoY to around $1,051,719.
- Word on the street indicates the HPI drifted slightly lower—about $979,000, down 0.2% from June.
What It Adds Up To: Buyers are back in force—sales are outpacing new listings while prices softened, creating renewed market opportunities.
City Highlights
Toronto
A more balanced landscape—but some segments remain soft. Condos and detached homes see inventory rising; semis are steadier.
Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington & Muskoka
While TRREB doesn’t break down by city in these reports, regional trends suggest:
- Mississauga & Burlington: Strong rise in listings and dipping average prices give buyers leverage.
- Oakville: Stability in demand for luxury keeps discounts modest.
- Muskoka: Continued strong interest in sub-$2M waterfront properties should benefit from broader GTA momentum.
What This Means for You
- For Buyers:
Renewed affordability, rising inventory, and favorable interest rates make August a prime time to move. - For Sellers:
A more balanced market—strategic pricing and quick response will be key to success. - For Investors & Cottage Buyers:
Strong July sales in the GTA point to increasing investor interest; Muskoka remains a high-value lifestyle and investment destination.
Work With the GTA Real Estate Experts
Whether you’re planning to buy a Muskoka cottage, invest in a luxurious Oakville property, or explore options across Toronto, Mississauga, or Burlington, now is the time to act.
Regan Irish & Associates specializes in luxury, resale, and investment properties across the GTA and Muskoka. Our market insight and negotiation skills help you get the best results—whether buying, selling, or investing.
1320 Cornwall Rd Unit 103, Oakville, ON L6J 7W5
905.842.7677
Visit reganirish.com
Let’s make today’s market your opportunity—contact us today!
Ultimate Guide to Downsizing Your Home in Canada
Alex Irish & Associates and The Regan Team Announce Strategic Merger
Two of the most respected names in real estate, Alex Irish & Associates and The Regan Team, are excited to announce a strategic merger that will combine their expertise, resources, and market reach. This partnership of Regan Irish & Associates brings together the strengths of both firms, offering an enhanced real estate experience for clients across Southern Ontario, including expanding into new regions like Collingwood and Muskoka. The merger reflects both brokerages’ long-standing commitment to providing high-quality, relationship-focused service while leveraging new technologies and business strategies to ensure their clients receive unparalleled support.
“Alex is the consummate professional,” said Matthew Regan, CEO of The Regan Team. “She embodies the qualities of a person I would trust with my own home sale, and I am excited to partner with her to combine the best of both our brokerages. Our goal is to create a work culture that allows our agents to thrive, while being confident and equipped to provide the service our clients deserve. Our clients are going to benefit immensely with a wider and deeper net of potential buyers and an even further reach in marketing and advertising.”
Alex Irish, Founder of Alex Irish & Associates, emphasized that this partnership is the next natural step for her business. “By combining our resources and efforts we knew we’d be able to create a better real estate experience for our clients, our agents and business partners.” she explained. “This merger allows me to focus more on client relationships while also mentoring our agents who can continue to offer that same high level of service. Matthew has built a business model that aligns with my long-term vision, allowing us to scale while still maintaining the personal touch. Simply put, we are better together.”
Alex has built her brand over decades, particularly in the Oakville area, where her name is synonymous with excellence in real estate. Her personal approach, based on referrals and repeat business, has earned her a loyal clientele. Matthew has focused on recruiting top agents and scaling his business, growing The Regan Team to one of the top brokerages in Canada. This merger offers an exciting opportunity to grow into new territories. Together, the merged brokerage will have 15 offices spanning from Niagara to Toronto to Muskoka. This expanded presence means more resources for clients, from enhanced marketing capabilities to a wider net of potential buyers.
The merger will officially take effect on October 31, 2024, and the new branding and operations will be rolled out in the coming months.
About Alex Irish & Associates
Alex Irish & Associates, led by Alex Irish, is a highly respected name in Oakville, known for its personalized, referral-based business model and long-standing relationships with clients. Alex has built her brand on trust, excellence, and attention to detail, qualities that will remain at the forefront of the merged firm.
About The Regan Team
The Regan Team has a long-standing reputation for innovation, process-driven operations, and a focus on agent recruitment and development to provide the highest level of service for their clients. Under Matthew’s leadership, the brokerage has expanded its presence across Ontario, providing agents with the tools and support needed to succeed in a competitive market. For more information on this exciting merger, please contact Matthew Regan.