As spring approaches, activity in the real estate market typically increases significantly, requiring buyers to proceed with caution. In Winnipeg, the market is facing a shortage of available properties, leading to bidding wars on homes.
According to the local real estate board, February 2026 recorded an 8% decline in active listings, an 11% drop in sales, and a 10% decrease in total dollar volume compared with the previous year.
Real estate agent Nicole Hacault explained that the current shortage leaves buyers with limited options. One of the homes listed for sale attracted more than 20 showings in just two days.
This situation is partly due to the city’s demographic dynamics, as younger generations are entering the housing market while baby boomers are holding onto their homes for longer periods, widening the supply gap.
She also noted that sellers usually wait for the snow to melt before listing their properties, adding that real estate activity actually begins to increase from the second week of January.
If you are planning to buy this spring, patience is essential. Competition is strong, and prices often rise above the asking price, with some homes selling for $50,000 to $150,000 more than the listed amount.
