Stats from the Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS® (NSAR)
Nova Scotia Real Estate Market Overview
January 2026 — Comprehensive Market Analysis
Executive Summary
The Nova Scotia residential real estate market in January 2026 demonstrates a nuanced landscape characterized by declining sales volumes, moderate price stability, and expanding inventory. Closed sales decreased by 13.1% compared to the previous year, while the median sales price showed a marginal increase of 1.3%, signaling a potential market recalibration.
Closed Sales
453
13.1% decline year-over-year
Median Sales Price
$426,382
1.3% increase year-over-year
Days on Market
73
12.3% increase from last year
Inventory
2,568
5.3% increase in homes for sale
Market Performance Analysis
Sales Dynamics
January 2026 witnessed a notable 13.1% reduction in closed sales, decreasing from 521 to 453 transactions. This decline suggests a cooling market with potential shifts in buyer sentiment and market expectations.
Pricing Landscape
Despite the sales volume decline, the median sales price demonstrated resilience, increasing by 1.3% to $426,382. This suggests underlying market strength and potential value stability.
Median Sales Price
$426,382
1.3% year-over-year growth
Average Sales Price
$456,392
1.9% decline from previous year
Market Velocity
The average days on market extended to 73 days, a 12.3% increase from the previous year. This lengthening indicates a more deliberate transaction process and potential buyer caution.
Inventory Expansion
The inventory of homes for sale grew by 5.3%, reaching 2,568 properties. This increase suggests more options for buyers and a potential moderation of the previously intense seller's market.
Inventory of Homes
2,568
5.3% increase
Months of Inventory
3.1
6.9% increase
Key Market Insight
The January 2026 market signals a transitional phase: declining sales volumes, stable pricing, and expanding inventory suggest a gradual shift towards a more balanced market environment. Buyers and sellers should anticipate more nuanced negotiation dynamics compared to recent years.
Comprehensive Market Metrics
| Metric | January 2026 | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| New Listings | 867 | -9.5% |
| Pending Sales | 590 | +0.5% |
| Closed Sales | 453 | -13.1% |
| Median Sales Price | $426,382 | +1.3% |
| Percent of List Price Received | 95.6% | -0.8% |
| Housing Affordability Index | 85 | +6.3% |
