Inside the Sold-Out Real Estate Luncheon: Key Takeaways for Barrie’s Market, Economy, and Homebuyers

A Sold-Out Afternoon of Insight, Strategy, and Community

On June 24, 2025, we hosted our Faris Team Real Estate Luncheon—and we’re proud to say the room was filled to capacity.

It was an energizing afternoon with expert insights, exciting local announcements, and plenty of opportunity for conversation over a catered lunch. From the national outlook to what’s happening right here in Barrie, the event delivered timely and practical takeaways for buyers, sellers, and investors alike.

Ben Rabidoux on Where the Market Is Heading 📈

We were honoured to welcome Ben Rabidoux, one of Canada’s leading housing and economic analysts, to kick off the event. Ben shared a high-level look at current market conditions across the country and what they may signal for the months ahead.

Among his key themes:

• The market is showing signs of stabilization, with home sales likely having already bottomed earlier this year.

• 2026 is shaping up to be a potential turning point, with confidence on the rise and inventory expected to tighten—especially for single-family homes.

• Interest rates remain a key factor, and if cuts continue, affordability could improve sooner than expected.

His presentation provided valuable clarity for anyone wondering when the right time to move might be.

Mayor Alex Nuttall on Barrie’s Growth and Development 🏢

Next, Mayor Alex Nuttall took the stage to share an inspiring update on the future of Barrie.

He walked us through the city’s progress toward increasing housing supply, streamlining development approvals, and investing in community infrastructure. A major highlight was his announcement that Georgian College will receive $7.5 million to support its expansion in downtown Barrie—bringing 1,000 students into the core and fueling job creation and economic activity.

Mayor Nuttall also touched on Barrie’s strategy for attracting new industrial investment, enhancing community safety, and unlocking municipal land to accelerate home construction. His message was clear: Barrie is growing, and it’s ready for what’s next.

Mark Faris on How to Win in Today’s Market 🏡

To close out the event, Mark Faris shared an in-depth look at how to succeed in today’s real estate landscape—whether you’re buying, selling, or investing.

His talk covered:

• The long-term fundamentals that continue to make real estate a strong wealth-building tool.

• Creative financial strategies for maximizing home equity, navigating mortgage structures, and protecting your investments.

• The difference between going it alone and working with a trusted team, especially in a market where expert guidance and timing are everything.

It was a motivating finish to an already impactful afternoon.

Thank You for Joining Us!

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who attended and helped make this event such a success. These conversations are essential—not just for understanding the market, but for helping people move forward with confidence.

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