July 2, 2026   

This month gave us two big numbers worth paying attention to.

There were 61 residential properties sold, which makes this the highest number of monthly sales we have seen so far this year.

At the same time, we also reached a new high for active inventory, with 393 active residential listings on the market. To be honest, I believe this may be the highest number of active listings I have seen since I started tracking these stats over five years ago.

So what does that mean?

It means homes are selling, but buyers still have a lot to choose from.

Of the 61 properties that sold, 26 had at least one price reduction before selling. That is an important piece of the story.

At the same time, when I looked at the properties that did not have price reductions, many of them appeared to be priced very attractively right from the start, and those homes tended to sell fairly quickly.

So this is not just about reducing the price. It is about getting the pricing strategy right in the first place.

We are still seeing buyers respond when a property is positioned properly, but they are also quick to move past homes that feel overpriced for the current market.

Breakdown by Area

Here’s how June 2026 shaped up compared to June 2025 in key areas of our region:

*All my stats come from the local real estate board and are for freehold residential listings in Grey Highlands, West Grey, Chatsworth Twp and Southgate. 

Here’s a quick breakdown to compare the total numbers for the past 6 months, plus June 2025:

June 1, 2026   

Looking at the numbers a little more closely, Southgate recorded the highest number of sales in May, which isn’t entirely surprising given it also had the lowest average sale price across the areas we track. More affordable price points continue to attract a larger pool of buyers. West Grey followed with the second-highest number of sales for the month.

While May recorded the highest number of sales we’ve seen so far this year, it’s important to look beyond the headline number. Of the 51 properties that sold, only five sold for more than $1 million. The majority of the activity continues to be concentrated in the lower and mid-price ranges, where affordability remains a key factor for many buyers.

Another trend that continues to stand out is the number of price reductions taking place before properties sell. While reviewing comparable sales for a current listing recently, every sold property in the analysis had reduced its price at least once before selling. One property reduced twice, another three times, and one required four separate price reductions before finding a buyer. This doesn’t mean every property needs a price reduction, but it does highlight how important accurate pricing is in today’s market. Buyers have choices, they’re well-informed, and they’re quick to compare value across competing listings.

Breakdown by Area

Here’s how May 2026 shaped up compared to May 2025 in key areas of our region:

*All my stats come from the local real estate board and are for freehold residential listings in Grey Highlands, West Grey, Chatsworth Twp and Southgate. 

Here’s a quick breakdown to compare the total numbers for the past 6 months, plus May 2025:

May 4, 2026   

As we moved through April, we saw an increase in the number of sold listings with 39 properties selling compared to 28 in March, and also 28 sold in April of last year. At the same time, active listings rose from 234 at the end of March to 300 by the end of April, meaning buyers are starting to see more options and competition between listings is growing. I do believe we’ll continue to see inventory increase as more properties hit the market over the coming weeks. It was a slower start than normal for spring listings, and the weather may have played a role in delaying some sellers from getting to market.

For example, over the last seven days alone, there were 57 new listings that hit the market across all property types including residential, farm, vacant land, and commercial properties. During that same timeframe, there were 28 price reductions and 23 sold properties, meaning we are currently seeing more price reductions happening than sales. We also saw 148 properties expire from the market, which continues to show that pricing strategy and positioning matter more than ever in today’s market. Even with the increase in inventory, buyers are still active, showings are continuing regularly, and well-priced properties are still attracting strong attention.

Breakdown by Area

Here’s how April 2026 shaped up compared to April 2025 in key areas of our region:

*All my stats come from the local real estate board and are for freehold residential listings in Grey Highlands, West Grey, Chatsworth Twp and Southgate. 

Here’s a quick breakdown to compare the total numbers for the past 6 months, plus April 2025:

Size, Depth, Boating Suitability, Fish Species, Public Access & What It’s Known For

McCullough Lake is a multi use inland lake located in Chatsworth Township in Grey County, Ontario. Known for its natural surroundings, recreational boating, fishing, and wildlife habitat, it offers a balance between active lake use and quieter natural areas.

McCullough Lake: Quick Facts

Waterbody type: Natural inland lake
Location: Chatsworth Township, Grey County, Ontario

Surface area: Approximately 146 acres
Maximum depth: Approximately 52 feet

McCullough Lake is considered a moderate sized inland lake with a mix of seasonal cottages, year round homes, and undeveloped natural shoreline.

Depth

McCullough Lake reaches a maximum depth of approximately 55 feet, making it deeper than many smaller inland lakes in the area.

The lake includes a mix of shallow shoreline areas and deeper open water sections, which helps support recreational boating and a diverse fish population.

History and Formation

McCullough Lake was named after John McCullough, an Irish settler who arrived in the area during the early 1800s. Historical accounts note that he and his brother William settled on land surrounding the lake after arriving in Sullivan Township in the 1820s.

Over time, portions of the shoreline developed into cottage properties while other areas remained naturalized.

Fish Species in McCullough Lake

McCullough Lake is a popular recreational fishing lake.

Commonly targeted species include:

• Yellow perch
  

• Northern pike
  

• Pumpkinseed
  

• Smallmouth bass
  

• Largemouth bass
  

The combination of shallow habitat, vegetation, and deeper water areas supports a range of warm water fish species.

Boating and Watercraft

McCullough Lake supports a variety of recreational boating activities.

Common uses include:

• Powerboats
  

• Pontoon boats
  

• Canoes
  

• Kayaks
  

• Paddleboards
  

• Fishing boats
  

The lake includes a public boat launch on the west side of the lake.

Chatsworth Township has implemented controlled access systems at the launch to help manage boating activity and improve safety on smaller lakes.

Public Access Map

McCullough Lake includes a public boat launch and access area located on the west side of the lake.

For general location reference, McCullough Lake can be viewed here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gvGpQnXvxsnDiLL29

Most of the remaining shoreline around the lake is privately owned.

What McCullough Lake Is Known For

McCullough Lake is known for:

• Recreational boating
  

• Bass and pike fishing
  

• Wildlife viewing
  

• A mix of cottages and year round homes
  

• Natural shoreline areas and wetlands
  

• A quieter atmosphere compared to larger recreational lakes
  

The lake also includes fish and wildlife habitat areas that can be explored by paddle craft. Swans, deer, and other wildlife are commonly observed around the shoreline.

A Local Perspective

McCullough Lake offers a balance that appeals to many different types of waterfront owners. It is active enough for boating and summer recreation while still maintaining a quieter, more natural feel than some of the busier lakes in the region.

The mix of open water, natural shoreline, and wildlife habitat gives the lake a strong connection to the surrounding Grey County landscape.

Size, Depth, Boating Suitability, Fish Species, Public Access & What It’s Known For

Williams Lake is a popular inland lake located in Chatsworth Township in Grey County, Ontario. Known for its distinctive clover shape, spring-fed water, and strong recreational use, it has become one of the better-known lakes in the area for boating, fishing, and cottage living.

Williams Lake: Quick Facts

Waterbody type: Natural inland lake
Location: Chatsworth Township, Grey County, Ontario

Surface area: Approximately 148 acres 

Williams Lake is known for its distinctive clover-shaped layout and spring-fed water, which gives the lake a noticeably clear aqua tone.

Shoreline: The shoreline includes a mix of seasonal cottages and year round homes, with roughly 60 buildings surrounding the lake.

Depth

Detailed public bathymetric surveys are limited, but Williams Lake is generally considered a moderate depth inland lake with enough depth to support recreational boating and a healthy fish population.

Its spring-fed nature contributes to clearer water conditions than many smaller inland lakes in the area

History and Formation

Williams Lake is a natural inland lake that became historically significant during the late 1800s because of marl excavation operations around the shoreline.

A railway was extended to the lake in 1899 so marl deposits could be extracted and transported to cement plants in Owen Sound. Historical excavation activity altered local groundwater conditions and affected nearby farm wells.

The lake was named after the Williams family, who owned a large portion of the surrounding land.

In 1973, a portion of land on the southeast side of the lake was preserved as natural land through conservation ownership.

Fish Species in Williams Lake

Williams Lake is a well-known recreational fishing lake.

Commonly targeted species include:

• Smallmouth bass
  

• Largemouth bass
  

• Yellow perch
  

• Panfish
  

• Brook trout
  

The lake is especially known locally for bass fishing.

Boating and Watercraft

Williams Lake supports a wide range of recreational boating activities.

Common uses include:

• Powerboats
  

• Pontoon boats
  

• Canoes
  

• Kayaks
  

• Paddleboards
  

• Fishing boats
  

The lake is considered one of the more active boating lakes in the Chatsworth area while still maintaining a quieter atmosphere than larger recreational destinations.

Public Access Map

Williams Lake includes a public beach and boat launch located on the south side of the lake.

For general location reference, Williams Lake can be viewed here:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/jJCzoBjBSoczW8fz5

Most of the remaining shoreline around Williams Lake is privately owned.

Williams Lake Is Known For

• Its unique clover shape
  

• Spring-fed aqua coloured water
  

• Recreational boating
  

• Bass fishing
  

• A mix of cottages and year round homes
  

• Public beach and boat launch access
  

Its balance of recreation and natural scenery has made it one of the more established inland lake communities in Chatsworth Township.

A Local Perspective

Williams Lake offers a balance that appeals to a wide range of people. It has enough size for boating and activity while still feeling connected to nature and the surrounding countryside.

Compared to some quieter inland lakes nearby, Williams Lake tends to feel more social and recreational, while still maintaining the slower pace that draws people to Grey County waterfront living in the first place.

March’s average sale price came in noticeably higher than February, but it’s important to look at what’s behind that number. There were three properties over 25 acres, including one 150-acre parcel, along with three lakefront sales. Those types of properties can push the average up and don’t always reflect the typical home. 

We saw 28 sales in March, up from 22 in February and also higher than the 24 sales in March of last year. Active listings sat at 234 at month end, compared to 221 the month before. Even with that increase, the pace of new listings feels a bit slower right now. A big part of that is likely the move-up market hesitating, and that group usually drives a lot of our inventory. If you’ve been thinking about making a move, it could be a good time to have a conversation and look at your options.

Breakdown by Area

Here’s how March 2026 shaped up compared to March 2025 in key areas of our region:

*All my stats come from the local real estate board and are for freehold residential listings in Grey Highlands, West Grey, Chatsworth Twp and Southgate. 

Here’s a quick breakdown to compare the total numbers for the past 6 months, plus March 2025:

Size, Depth, Boating Rules, Fish Species, Public Access & What It’s Known For

Bell’s Lake is a small inland lake located in the Municipality of West Grey in Grey County, Ontario. It is known for its calm water, natural setting, and quiet recreational use. Unlike larger lakes that attract heavy boating activity, Bell’s Lake is better known as a peaceful destination for paddling, fishing, and enjoying nature.

Some Quick Facts:

Lake type:  Natural inland lake
Location: West Grey, Grey County, Ontario

Bell’s Lake sits just west of Markdale and is part of a conservation property managed by the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority. The lake is known for its quiet environment and limited development. 

Lake Depth

Detailed bathymetric surveys for Bell’s Lake are not widely published, but it is generally considered a shallow to moderate depth inland lake. Lakes of this size typically support calm water conditions that are well suited to paddling and fishing.

Fish Species in Bell’s Lake

Bell’s Lake is a popular local fishing spot. Species reported in the lake include:

• Northern pike

• Smallmouth bass

• Brook trout

These species are typical of smaller inland lakes in Grey County and contribute to its reputation as a quiet fishing destination. 

Boating and Watercraft

Bell’s Lake is best suited to low impact recreational boating.

Common uses include:

• Canoes

• Kayaks

• Paddleboards

• Small fishing boats

Powered watercraft over 10 horsepower are not permitted, which helps maintain the calm character of the lake. 

Public Access Map

Bell’s Lake is located on conservation land and has a small access area where visitors can reach the water.

Facilities are limited and there are no developed recreational amenities at the lake.

For general location reference, Bell’s Lake can be viewed here:
 https://maps.app.goo.gl/YXJJDK3fH5z5ymzSA

What Bell’s Lake Is Known For

Bell’s Lake is known for:

• Quiet paddling and canoeing

• Recreational fishing

• Natural surroundings and conservation land

• Limited shoreline development

• A peaceful setting close to Markdale
  

Its calm water and minimal motorized boating make it a favourite spot for paddlers and anglers looking for a quieter experience. 

A Local Perspective

Bell’s Lake offers a very different feel from larger lakes in the region. With its smaller size and conservation setting, it tends to attract people who want to slow down and enjoy the outdoors without crowds or heavy boat traffic.

For those looking for a quiet lake environment in West Grey, Bell’s Lake provides a calm and nature focused experience.

Size, Depth, Boating Rules, Fish Species, Public Access & What It’s Known For

Irish Lake is a small inland lake located in the Municipality of West Grey in Grey County, Ontario. It is known as a quiet and lightly developed lake that appeals to anglers and people who prefer a calm waterfront setting rather than high-activity boating.

Some Quick Facts:

Lake type:  Natural Inland Lake
Location:  West Grey, Grey County, Ontario

Surface area: Approximately 20 acres
Shoreline length: Primarily residential with roughly 50 cottages surrounding the lake 

Irish Lake is one of the smaller lakes in the Grey County area, which contributes to its quiet character and slower pace.

Lake Depth

Irish Lake is relatively shallow compared to many larger inland lakes.

• Average depth: Depth is generally moderate across much of the lake.

• Maximum depth: Approximately 20 feet 

The shallow profile contributes to calm water conditions and supports warm-water fish habitat.

Fish Species in Irish Lake

Irish Lake is most commonly known as a recreational fishing lake.

Species reported in the lake include:

• Brook trout

• Rainbow trout

• Smallmouth bass

• Rock bass

• Pumpkinseed

• Largemouth bass

• Yellow perch

• Black bullhead 

Because of its size and habitat, fishing tends to be relaxed and local rather than high-pressure sport fishing.

Boating and Watercraft

Irish Lake is generally considered a non-motorized lake, which helps maintain a quieter environment. 

Typical watercraft include:

• Canoes

• Kayaks

• Paddleboards

• Rowboats

• Small electric fishing boats

The absence of large motorized boating keeps the lake calm and well suited to paddling and fishing.

Public Access Map

Public access to Irish Lake is limited.

Most of the shoreline is privately owned by the surrounding cottages. Visitors should respect private property and use established access points where permitted.

For general location reference, Irish Lake can be viewed here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/duG9VkH3X6Bcr1f46

What Irish Lake Is Known For

Irish Lake is known for:

• Quiet, low traffic lake conditions

• Recreational fishing

• Canoeing and paddling

• A small cottage community

• Natural surroundings with modest shoreline development

It is not a large recreational boating lake, and that quieter character is part of its appeal.

A Local Perspective

Irish Lake tends to attract people who appreciate a slower pace on the water. Its smaller size and non-motorized environment create a setting where paddling, fishing, and simply spending time outdoors are the focus.

For those looking for a calm inland lake in West Grey, Irish Lake offers a peaceful and understated waterfront experience.