At TRU Realty, our foundation is built on truth, honesty, and professionalism. We take immense pride in aligning our brokerage with professionals who embody these core values and bring unparalleled expertise to our clients. It is with great enthusiasm and pride that I announce the newest addition to our team: Vivek (Vic) Bawa.

Vic is not your average real estate professional. He joins TRU Realty backed by over 30 years of elite experience in civil engineering and project management, alongside a robust background running his own successful construction business. As a licensed Broker, Vic possesses an intricate, top-tier understanding of property mechanics, structural integrity, and project execution. For clients navigating the residential market, this background is a massive competitive advantage. Whether you are looking for a structurally sound forever home or analyzing the bones of a potential investment property, Vic’s sharp analytical eye ensures you see far beyond the surface cosmetics.

Beyond his technical mastery, Vic is a highly skilled negotiator who is deeply committed to ensuring his clients maximize the value of their property assets. Known for being enthusiastic, exceptionally well-organized, and relentlessly hardworking, he approaches every residential transaction with the precise execution of an engineer and the dedicated care of a trusted advisor. 

By blending his deep roots in construction with his brokerage expertise, Vic provides a level of service that perfectly mirrors TRU Realty’s high standards. We are thrilled to support him as he helps our clients achieve their real estate goals with absolute transparency and confidence.

Put a Broker with 30+ years of engineering and construction insight in your corner. Contact Vivek (Vic) Bawa today to discuss your next move!

At TRU Realty, our foundation is built on truth, honesty, and unparalleled professionalism. That is why it gives us immense pride to announce the newest addition to our brokerage family: Xing Gao.

In an industry that demands both sharp strategic insight and genuine empathy, Xing stands out as a true professional. She joins TRU Realty with a stellar academic and professional pedigree, holding an MBA from Carleton University alongside valuable international real estate experience. This unique combination allows her to bring a sophisticated, global perspective and a highly strategic mindset to the Ottawa market.

Whether her clients are purchasing their very first home, upgrading to a luxury property, navigating complex investments, or seeking seamless property management services, Xing guides them with absolute clarity and confidence. Furthermore, being fully fluent in both English and Mandarin, Xing bridges cultural and linguistic gaps, ensuring that clear communication and honest advice are at the forefront of every single transaction.

Beyond her sharp business acumen, Xing is deeply grounded. When she isn't busy negotiating the best deals for her clients, you can find her exploring Ottawa’s beautiful nature trails, travelling, or sharing laughs and creating memories with her little one. It is this balance of professional drive and warm, relatable humanity that makes her such a perfect fit for the TRU Realty culture.

The addition of Xing Gao to our team reinforces our commitment to attracting top-tier talent to better serve our community. We know that her strategic expertise and dedication to building lasting relationships will be an incredible asset to our clients.

Please join us in giving Xing a warm TRU Realty welcome!

Connect with Xing today to achieve your real estate goals:

• Website: xinggao.ca

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/xingottawa

• Instagram: @xinginottawa

• Facebook: facebook.com/xingottawa

At TRU Realty, our mission has always been to build a brokerage rooted in truth, honesty, and unwavering professionalism. Today, I am immensely proud to announce that we are further strengthening that mission by welcoming Elena Dembinsky to our professional family.

Elena joins us with a proven track record of exceptional client service in the Ottawa and surrounding area. Fluent in both English and Russian, Elena brings a unique, multicultural perspective to our team, allowing her to serve Ottawa’s diverse community with clarity and care. Whether she is guiding a first-time homebuyer through the complexities of the market or helping a family find their dream home, Elena’s approach is defined by her "client-first" philosophy and her passion for making the real estate process as smooth and positive as possible.

What truly sets Elena apart is her dedication to being a trusted advisor. She understands that a home is more than just a transaction; it is a major life milestone. Her commitment to providing honest guidance and representing her clients’ best interests makes her a perfect fit for the TRU Realty brand.

When she isn't busy finding the perfect property for her clients, Elena is an active member of the Ottawa community, often sharing her love for the city’s vibrant local culture and beautiful landscapes. Her enthusiasm for the National Capital Region is infectious, and it fuels her drive to help others call this city "home."

We are confident that Elena’s expertise and integrity will be a tremendous asset to our clients. Please join us in giving Elena Dembinsky a warm welcome to TRU Realty!

At TRU Realty, we have always believed that the future of real estate is built on three unbreakable pillars: Truth, Honesty, and Professionalism. Today, we are very proud to announce that we are strengthening those pillars with the addition of one of Ottawa’s most energetic and dedicated young talents, Yasas Rajapakse, and his formidable team, including Rahul Verma and Eesha Dham.

Yasas joins us with a proven track record of success and a reputation as a "go-getter" who doesn't just list homes, he delivers results. What impressed us most about Yasas and his team is their unwavering commitment to transparency. In an industry that moves as fast as ours, Yasas maintains a "client-first" philosophy, ensuring that whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor expanding a portfolio, you receive straightforward, expert advice every step of the way.

The addition of the Vantage team represents a significant win for our clients. By combining their youthful energy and modern marketing savvy with the established integrity of the TRU Realty brand, we are offering a real estate experience that is as innovative as it is reliable.

We are thrilled to have this powerhouse team under our roof. Their passion for the Ottawa community and their relentless drive to exceed expectations make them the perfect fit for the TRU Realty family.

Looking to make your next move? Connect with Yasas and his team today to experience a higher standard of real estate service!

At TRU Realty, our name is our promise. We define ourselves through truth, honesty, and an uncompromising level of professionalism. Today, I am immensely pleased and proud to announce that Yusuf Dundar has joined our brokerage, bringing a unique and formidable skill set to our Ottawa team.

Yusuf is not your average real estate representative. With a distinguished previous career as an Electrical Engineer and years of experience in the IT industry, he brings a level of technical precision and analytical rigour to the real estate process that is truly rare. Having spent several successful years honing his craft at Sutton Group, Yusuf has chosen TRU Realty as the platform to take his client service to the next level.

"Yusuf embodies the 'TRU' spirit," says the Broker of Record. "His transition from engineering to real estate speaks to his passion for people, while his technical background ensures that his clients' interests are protected with mathematical accuracy and tireless integrity."

A long-time resident of Kanata, Yusuf understands the local market from the perspective of a neighbour, a father, and a professional. Whether he is navigating complex contracts or helping a family find their dream home, his focus remains the same: outstanding service built on a foundation of hard work.

Please join us in welcoming Yusuf Dundar to the TRU Realty family!

TRU Realty is Thrilled to Welcome Rahul Verma to the Team! At TRU Realty, our foundation is built on three unbreakable pillars: Truth, Honesty, and Professionalism. Today, we are immensely proud to announce that we are further strengthening that foundation by welcoming Rahul Verma to our brokerage.

Rahul joins us not just as an agent but as a proven leader in the real estate industry. Having successfully navigated the complexities of the market as a team leader, Rahul brings a wealth of experience in residential sales and a track record of numerous successful transactions. His transition to TRU Realty stems from a shared belief in the value we provide—a commitment to putting the client’s needs first through transparent and ethical service.

“We are always looking for top-tier talent that reflects our brokerage’s dedication to integrity," says the Broker of Record. "Rahul’s background in architectural technology, combined with his success leading a team, makes him an invaluable asset to our clients and our culture. We are thrilled to have him on board."

Rahul’s addition ensures that TRU Realty clients continue to receive the most sophisticated and honest representation in the region. Whether you are buying your first home or selling a long-term investment, Rahul’s expertise and leadership will guide you home. Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Rahul Verma!

Ready to start your real estate journey with a professional you can trust? Connect with Rahul Verma Today!

At TRU Realty, our name is our promise. We take great pride in working with individuals who operate with absolute integrity, transparency, and a relentless drive for excellence. We are thrilled to officially announce that Eesha Dham has joined our growing team of professionals.

Eesha enters the real estate industry with a vibrant energy and a sophisticated understanding of the modern digital landscape. In an era where a property’s online presence is the first, and often most critical impression, Eesha’s mastery of social media marketing ensures her clients’ listings will stand out in a crowded marketplace.

"We don’t just look for agents; we look for partners who represent the future of this industry," says Kevin Saunders, Broker of Record. "Eesha’s dedication to her craft and her natural ability to connect with people make her a perfect fit for the TRU Realty brand. She has immense potential, and we are proud to support her as she builds a legacy of success for her clients."

Eesha’s approach is built on the TRU pillars: Truth, Honesty, and Professionalism. Whether you are navigating your very first home purchase or looking for a marketing-forward professional to list your property, Eesha is ready to deliver results with a personal touch.

Join us in welcoming Eesha Dham!

Ready to start your real estate journey with a fresh perspective? Connect with Eesha today to see how her innovative marketing strategies can work for you.

At TRU Realty, our mission is to provide real estate services anchored in Truth, Honesty, and Professionalism. It is with great pride that I announce the addition of Sébastien Malherbe to our brokerage.

Sébastien is a professional who truly understands the weight of responsibility. With an extensive background in strategic advisory and international relations within the federal government, he brings a level of discipline and ethical standards that are second to none. For Sébastien, real estate is not just about transactions; it is about providing the same high-level advisory and transparency that has defined his professional career.

While his academic background (B.Sc and MBA) provides him with a sharp analytical edge, it is his commitment to people that sets him apart. Specializing in residential real estate and investment properties, Sébastien offers his clients a balanced perspective: a sophisticated understanding of market trends combined with a genuine dedication to helping families find their ideal home.

Sébastien’s roots in the National Capital Region run deep. As a family man and a dedicated volunteer with the National Capital Air Cadet Squadron, he is committed to the values of leadership and community service.

We are thrilled to have Sébastien represent the TRU Realty brand. His unique combination of strategic expertise and public-service integrity ensures that our clients are in the most capable hands.

Looking for a real estate partner who values integrity as much as results? We invite you to connect with Sébastien Malherbe today.

Finding a real estate agent is easy. Finding an agent who truly lives and breathes the local market, and who puts your interests above all else, is a different story.

At TRU Realty, we are dedicated to building a team of professionals who share our commitment to integrity and exceptional client care. Today, we are excited to officially welcome Nicholas Dupré, REALTOR®, to our brokerage.

With over ten years of experience under his belt, Nick has seen it all in the Ottawa market. He has successfully guided clients through everything from military relocations and first-time home purchases to complex commercial investments and land development projects.

While his resume is impressive, it’s Nick’s philosophy that makes him a perfect fit for TRU Realty. He operates with a "common sense" approach, believing that clear, transparent analysis is better than a sales pitch any day. He is known for the hard work he puts in behind the scenes to ensure his clients’ goals are met.

For Nick, real estate isn’t just a 9-to-5 obligation—it’s a lifestyle. He is the type of professional who spends his free time driving through emerging neighbourhoods, always keeping a pulse on where the market is heading next. When you work with Nick, you aren't just getting an agent; you are getting a dedicated partner who loves this city and understands its potential.

We are incredibly proud to have Nicholas on our team. If you are looking for an advisor with deep experience and a straightforward approach, give Nick a call today.

Ottawa eased into a slower market rhythm in November, shaped by early winter weather and a cautious economic environment. Sales declined from October and fell below November 2024 levels. Although active listings dipped down month over month, months of inventory (MOI) rose again after tightening earlier in the fall. The market remained broadly balanced, but the data shows a tilt toward higher supply, with November’s seasonal slowdown more pronounced than usual.

Recent rate cuts offer some optimism for renewed buyer engagement through the typically quiet winter months, setting the stage for a steadier start to the new year and a more energized spring. At the same time, elevated inventory in the townhome and apartment segments warrants ongoing attention to ensure clients understand the current dynamics.

November Snapshot: Home Sales in Ottawa 

• November total sales: 880, down from 1,177 in October 2025

• 18.2% lower than November 2024

• Year-to-date sales remain 1.5% ahead of this point in 2024

• Average sale price was $680,496, up a little more than 2% compared with last year

• Year-to-date average is still holding near $700,000, 3% higher than a year ago

• Gains are largely driven by single-family sales, which continue to climb

• Single-family homes averaged at $825,827 in November 2025, up 4.8% compared to November 2024 and up 4% year-to-date

Supply Continues to Build

While inventory typically climbs in November, the increase this year is more pronounced. Active listings reached 3,721, and months of inventory rose to 4.2, which is a meaningful shift from last year’s tighter conditions. That additional choice is influencing pricing and buyer behaviour, especially across property types. Townhomes averaged $542,607 in November, down from both October and last year’s year-to-date figures. Apartments face the most supply pressure: condo MOI climbed above seven, and sales were down by more than a third year over year. Prices in this segment have held up better than townhomes on an annual basis, but the volume of available product signals a softer environment than the stable average sale price suggests.

Ottawa’s apartment market is particularly important to watch in light of Toronto’s experience. Toronto is working through one of the most significant buildups of condo inventory in recent memory, which is putting clear pressure on prices. Ottawa is not in the same position, but the increase in apartment inventory is real. REALTORS® will want to monitor this segment closely through the winter, especially if listings continue to rise faster than sales. Nearly 70% of new home starts this year are concentrated in rental and condo projects, creating a substantial pipeline of multi-unit supply coming online in the coming years. While these start influences the long-term rather than the immediate picture, they are still a key factor to watch. Toronto’s condo supply challenges emerged over several years as resale listings accumulated alongside an influx of new completions.

Residential Market Activity: Big Picture

• Total 2025 home sales to date: 13,075 increase in home sales compared to 2024:1.5%

• Average sale price in November: $680,496 

• Increase in home sale price from 2024: 2.2%. down more than 4% from October*

• Year-to-date average home price: $699,635, a 3.0% increase over the first 11 months of 2024.

• Total value of homes sold in November: $599 million (16.5% year-over-year decrease compared to 2024)

• Year-to-date sales: more than $9 billion, a significant 4.6% increase over 2024. 

• New residential listings in November: 1,458, down 39% from October but still 10% higher than November of last year

• November Active listings: 3,721, a 12% decrease from October, but 31.3% higher compared to 2024

*Prices typically decrease from October to November, and a 4% drop is notable as this is larger than usual.

This active listing indicator is trending higher than each of the past 5 years, indicating this is more than just the cyclical supply build-up associated with late fall/early winter.

Months of inventory (MOI), a key measure of supply, rose overall from 3.6 in October to 4.2, reflecting what remains a generally balanced market. Though it is worth noting that the disparity in MOI between property types.

Months of Inventory:

• Single Family: 4.0

• Townhome: 3.1

• Apartment: 7.3

Courtesy of the Ottawa Real Estate Board

We’re proud to welcome Felix Koolen-Renaud to the TRU Realty team!

Felix grew up in Eastern Ontario and later moved to Ottawa to attend the University of Ottawa, where he graduated with a double major with honours in Indigenous Studies and Criminology. While completing his studies, Felix also built a successful career in Public Safety and Law Enforcement, serving in several municipalities across the region before specializing in protective services with the federal government in the National Capital Region.

His entrepreneurial spirit and desire to make a direct impact on people’s lives eventually led him to real estate, where his background in service, integrity, and attention to detail has proven invaluable. Felix’s deep knowledge of Ottawa and the surrounding communities, coupled with his understanding of the public- and private-sector dynamics that make the region so distinctive, give his clients a clear advantage when navigating today’s real-estate market.

We’re thrilled to have Felix bring his professionalism, experience, and community-minded approach to TRU Realty. Please join us in welcoming him to the team!

TRU Realty – Defining Professionalism in Real Estate.

Welcome Keith Johnston to TRU Realty!

TRU Realty is proud to welcome Keith Johnston to our growing team of professional Realtors serving Ottawa and the surrounding areas!

Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Keith grew up in a military family as the son of a retired Admiral who served 38 years in the Canadian Navy. His upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for community—values that continue to define his approach to real estate today. Having lived across Canada and the U.S., Keith ultimately made Ottawa his home in 2001 and has been deeply rooted here ever since.

Before entering real estate, Keith built an impressive 20-year career in investment banking, developing expertise in finance, lending, and client service. In 2021, his lifelong fascination with homes, renovations, and property investment inspired him to make the leap into real estate—a move that proved to be a perfect fit. His extensive background in investing, lending and renovations allows him to offer clients practical insights and a clear, confident path through every stage of buying or selling.

Keith’s dedication extends far beyond his professional work. He is a passionate community volunteer, contributing his time and energy to organizations such as the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Meals on Wheels, Ronald McDonald House, Kaboom Play Structures, Habitat for Humanity, and the LGBTQ2+ community. Known for his lightning-fast communication, approachable style, and genuine care, Keith ensures every client feels fully supported throughout their real estate journey.

When he’s not working with clients, Keith can often be found camping with his partner, tackling home improvement projects, planning his next travel adventure, or tinkering with classic cars in the garage.

Please join us in welcoming Keith Johnston to the TRU Realty family—another great addition to our team that continues to Define Professionalism in Real Estate.