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Kawartha Lakes Waterfront Report

April 2026

Market Snapshot

The Kawartha Lakes waterfront market continued to evolve through April, with more inventory entering the market and buyers remaining selective in their decision-making.

While sales activity improved compared to last year, pricing adjustments across multiple segments—especially in the upper end—are playing a major role in getting deals done.

Below is a breakdown of the latest numbers and what they may indicate for buyers and sellers navigating the Kawartha Lakes waterfront market this spring.

Active Listings
New Listings
Avg. List Price
Avg. DOM
131 (+26)
66 (+21)
$1,166,591
54 (-4)

What we're seeing in the market

Buyers are continuing to approach the market with caution. Many are waiting for the right opportunity rather than rushing into a purchase, which is creating a more balanced and slower-moving environment.In the luxury segment, meaningful price adjustments are beginning to generate results. A number of waterfront properties that repositioned themselves into the $1.1M–$1.5M range have successfully found buyers, particularly on Sturgeon Lake and in nearby markets like Haliburton.

At the same time, properties priced above this range are taking longer to sell unless they offer something truly special.

Waterfront quality matters

One of the most important trends right now is the emphasis buyers are placing on waterfront quality.

Properties with:

  • clean, swimmable shoreline
  • desirable lake characteristics
  • strong overall setting are continuing to attract attention.


On the other hand, properties with weedy, shallow, or less desirable waterfront are facing increased resistance—even when priced within competitive ranges.

This is especially noticeable in the $700,000–$900,000 range, where some listings are struggling due to weaker waterfront features despite being within a popular price band.

Pricing Strategy & Recent Examples

April clearly reinforced one key point: the market is responding to pricing.

  • A Sturgeon Lake property that was previously listed at $1,550,000 returned to market at $1,450,000 and ultimately sold for $1.4M
  • A new build that tested the market at $2,249,000 last year repositioned to $1,499,000 this spring and is now conditionally sold
  • Another property with only a minor price adjustment remains unsold after extended time on market


These examples highlight the importance of aligning with current market conditions early.

Sales
Avg. Sale Price
Lowest Sale Price
Highest Sale Price
17 (+8)
$895,235
$450,000
$1,400,000

Absorption Rate

Absorption rate is a simple market number. It compares homes sold to homes for sale in a set time period (often one month). This helps show how strong buyer demand is right now.

In plain language, absorption rate answers one question: “How quickly are buyers buying the homes that are listed?”

12.9%

Absorption Rate
Market Type
What It Means
Under 10%
Buyer's Market
More homes for sale than buyers. Buyers often have more choice and more room to negotiate.
10% - 20%
Balanced Market
Supply and demand are closer to even. Prices often move more steadily.
Over 20%
Seller's Market
More buyers are competing for fewer homes. Homes often sell faster and prices can rise.

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Inventory Breakdown

Detached Direct Waterfront Properties

Lake
River
Canal
118
10
3

Price Bands

Waterfront Breakdown

Price Band
Listings
What's in this range?
Under $500k
4
Less desirable waterfront, teardown or seasonal cottages requiring extensive renovation
$500k – $700k
21 (+9)
Entry level seasonal lakefront or year round, move-in ready riverfront
$700k – $1M
49 (+6)
Largest buyer pool – mix of seasonal or year round homes with varying frontage
$1M – 1.5M
34 (+11)
Most value with updated homes with good waterfront.
$1.5M – $2M
10 (-3)
Premium segment with larger frontage on premium lakes
$2M +
13 (+3)
Luxury market

Thinking About Selling or Buying Waterfront in Kawartha Lakes?

If you’re considering selling, understanding where your property fits within today’s waterfront market is critical, especially when seasonal and year-round values are behaving very differently.

If you’re buying, having access to accurate pricing guidance and new listings as they come up can make a significant difference.

  • Request a free home valuation
  • Sign up for market alerts
  • Or reach out for a conversation – no pressure, just clarity

Disclaimer

The information contained in this report has been compiled from data provided by the Central Lakes Association of REALTORS® MLS system. While deemed reliable, it is not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice. Jason Richard and Royal LePage Kawartha Lakes do not assume responsibility for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies. This report is intended for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, legal, or investment advice. For the most current market data or a personalized property evaluation, please contact Jason Richard directly.