Toronto Low-Ball Offers 2025: Sellers Adjust to Aggressive Bidding

Toronto low-ball offers increasing in 2025 housing market with a visible For Sale sign in front of suburban home, representing negotiation dynamics and pricing pressure.

As Toronto’s real estate market adjusts to higher supply and a more cautious pool of buyers, a clear pattern is emerging. Toronto low-ball offers are rising across the board. Sellers are frequently receiving offers that fall well below asking, with some falling short by hundreds of thousands of dollars.

This shift is not only a reflection of market conditions, such as declining sales and rising inventory. It also signals a fundamental change in buyer psychology. Confidence is lower. Expectations are being reset. And in today’s climate, buyers are using negotiation tactics that were rarely seen in recent years.

Why Are Toronto Low-Ball Offers Increasing?

Several contributing factors are shaping this trend:

Inventory has risen significantly, giving buyers more options and leverage.
Absorption rates have declined, indicating slower turnover and longer days on market.
Borrowing remains expensive, with many buyers constrained by higher mortgage costs.
Ongoing economic and political uncertainty is leading to a "wait and see" mindset, particularly ahead of the federal election.

These conditions are creating an environment where offers come in low, negotiations are prolonged, and pricing strategy is critical.

How Sellers Can Respond to Low-Ball Offers

While the current market may feel discouraging for some sellers, there are practical strategies that can help protect value and maintain momentum.

1. Price to Reflect Today’s Market

The biggest mistake sellers can make right now is pricing for last year’s conditions. Buyers are informed and data-driven. Listings that are misaligned with current trends are more likely to stagnate, inviting aggressive offers or repeated reductions.

2. Understand the Strategy Behind Low Offers

A low offer does not necessarily mean a buyer isn’t serious. In this environment, many are testing the waters, expecting to negotiate. Sellers should enter each conversation knowing their bottom line and being ready to counter with confidence.

3. Presentation Still Matters

Even in a more balanced or buyer-leaning market, homes that show well will outperform the competition. Staging, professional photography, and clear value positioning remain critical to attracting the right buyers.

4. Counter with Market Data

Responding to a low-ball offer with evidence-backed comparables helps ground the negotiation. If your asking price is based on accurate, current sales data, make that case clearly.

What Types of Homes Are Still Commanding Strong Offers?

Despite the broader slowdown, there are exceptions. Properties that are renovated, move-in ready, and located in desirable neighbourhoods under $1.5 million continue to attract motivated buyers. These listings, when priced correctly, are still generating strong activity and, in some cases, multiple offers.

Final Takeaway

Toronto low-ball offers may be more common today, but they are not the end of the story. Sellers who approach the market with realistic pricing, strong representation, and a clear strategy are still finding success. The key is preparation. Understanding the dynamics of today’s market will ensure you negotiate from a position of strength, not reaction.

If you are preparing to sell or reviewing offers right now, we can help guide you through each step with precision and clarity.

Seventy Seven Park

Smart Real Estate. Smarter Strategies.