Ontario real estate investors are shifting gears in 2025. With rising prices in major cities and tighter margins, smart buyers are looking beyond the obvious and toward underrated markets that still offer strong returns.
Whether you’re planning your next BRRR, rental acquisition, or flip, this guide breaks down where savvy investors are buying.
The 2025 Shift: Investors Are Moving Beyond the Big Cities
Toronto and Hamilton once dominated the real estate investment map. But in 2025, investors are waking up to the reality: high entry costs, stagnant rents, and intense competition are eroding returns. The smarter play? Mid-size and secondary markets across Southwestern Ontario where value, cash flow, and long-term upside still exist.
At Certainli, we work with everyday investors, flippers, and buy-and-hold buyers who want access to the right deals, not just MLS® listings.
Hidden Market Hotspots in SW Ontario
- St. Thomas: With the incoming Volkswagen EV battery plant and improved transit infrastructure, this market is heating up fast. Rental demand is strong, and investors are eyeing duplex conversions and buy-reno-sell opportunities.
- Woodstock: Often overlooked, Woodstock offers affordable entry points, low vacancy rates, and potential for long-term appreciation as buyers spill over from Kitchener-Waterloo.
- Sarnia: Low property prices, decent rent-to-price ratios, and less competition make Sarnia a cash flow market that still flies under the radar.
- South London: Certain pockets still offer detached homes under $600K with conversion potential and rental upside.
- Cambridge (East Galt): With ongoing gentrification and a mix of older housing stock, this part of Cambridge presents excellent value-add potential.
Why Off-Market Deals Give You the Edge
The best investment properties rarely hit MLS®. At Certainli, we help investors tap into off-market listings, estate sales, and seller-direct opportunities that never go public.
Want a lead on the next property with BRRR or flip potential? You’ll want to be on our exclusive investor list.
Buying the property is only half the equation. Smart investors evaluate how and when they’ll exit:
– Flip after light renos?
– Hold and refi for long-term cash flow?
– Convert to a legal duplex or add an ADU?
– Airbnb in the right zones?
Our agents think like investors because they’ve worked in that world. We’ll help you model ROI based on your timeline and goals.
Work With Advisors Who Know Investment
We’re not just agents. We’re your real estate strategy team. We understand permits, zoning, renovation costs, and what makes a property pencil out.
Whether you’re new to investing or scaling your portfolio, Certainli helps you:
– Find undervalued homes with potential
– Access off-market inventory before the crowd
– Make informed decisions based on data and experience
Ready to Invest Smarter in 2025?
Join the investors getting early access to off-market properties and local insights that make a difference. Reach out today to get on our buyer list to find your next smart investment.
