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Kawartha Lakes Waterfront Report

March 2026

Market Snapshot

March is behind us, but across the Kawartha Lakes it still feels like winter, with snowbanks shrinking, ice beginning to break up, and many docks not yet in the water. This transitional period always creates an interesting dynamic in the waterfront market, as buyers begin actively searching while many sellers wait a few more weeks for their properties to show at their best.

At first glance, inventory appears to be increasing. Active waterfront listings grew from 77 at the beginning of March to 105 by month end. However, a closer look shows that much of the current selection is not entirely new to the market. A significant portion of available properties are carryovers from 2025, and many were originally purchased during the 2020–2023 period when waterfront pricing was near peak levels.

This means the amount of truly new waterfront inventory entering the market so far in 2026 remains relatively limited. As conditions improve and spring progresses, we will likely see additional listings come online, providing a clearer picture of supply and pricing trends heading into the busiest months of the waterfront season.

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
105
45
$1,219,397
58

One of the more notable trends in March was the increased presence of higher-end waterfront listings.

Currently:

  • 43% of all active waterfront listings are priced above $1 million
  • 21% of active listings are priced above $1.5 million


Toward the end of the month, we also saw a number of luxury waterfront properties return to the market after being listed in 2025, often at meaningfully reduced list prices.

This pattern may suggest the luxury segment is experiencing some of the strongest effects of a softer market. Higher-priced waterfront properties typically appeal to a narrower buyer pool, and during periods of market uncertainty, this segment often sees pricing adjustments first as sellers respond to current demand levels.

As we move further into the spring market, it will be important to monitor whether newly listed luxury properties enter the market aligned with current conditions, or if further price adjustments continue across the upper price ranges.

Sales
Avg. Sale Price
Lowest Sale Price
Highest Sale Price
9
$950,867
$375,000
$1,650,000

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?”

8.5%

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
89
12
4

Price Bands

Price Band
Listings
What's in this range?
Under $500k
4
Less desirable waterfront, teardown or seasonal cottages requiring extensive renovation
$500k – $700k
12
Entry level seasonal lakefront or year round, move-in ready riverfront
$700k – $1M
43
Largest buyer pool – mix of seasonal or year round homes with varying frontage
$1M – 1.5M
23
Most value with updated homes with good waterfront.
$1.5M – $2M
13
Premium segment with larger frontage on premium lakes
$2M +
10
Luxury market

Waterfront Breakdown

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
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  • Or reach out for a conversation – no pressure, just clarity

Call or Text: (705) 879-8200
Email: jasonrichard@royallepage.ca

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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.