Ottawa HHTs in 2026: More Choice, More Opportunity, and a Few New Challenges
Every year we help dozens of Canadian Armed Forces members relocate to Ottawa, and one thing we’ve learned is that no two House Hunting Trips (HHTs) are ever the same.
Some clients find the perfect home on day one. Others spend days touring properties, narrowing down their options, and carefully weighing the pros and cons of different neighbourhoods.
Recently, we worked with a client who experienced just how unpredictable an HHT can be. They spent several days viewing homes and found one they loved, only to lose out in a bidding war against ten other buyers. Frustrating? Absolutely.
Then, just after they returned home, the perfect house hit the market.
Fortunately, technology has changed the way military relocations work. We conducted a virtual showing, discussed the pros and cons, submitted an offer, and successfully negotiated a deal. The client then flew back to Ottawa for the home inspection and ultimately went firm on what turned out to be a better home than any of the properties they had seen during their HHT.
It’s a great example of why flexibility is so important during a military relocation.
Why This is a Great Market for Military Buyers
For the first time in several years, buyers are enjoying something they haven’t had much of in Ottawa: choice.
Inventory levels in Ottawa have increased significantly, giving buyers access to more homes, more neighbourhoods, and more opportunities to find the right fit for their family.
We’re seeing well-maintained homes available at reasonable prices, fewer bidding wars, and more opportunities to negotiate favourable terms.
For military members arriving from other markets across Canada, Ottawa currently offers excellent value compared to many major cities.
The New Challenge: Too Much Inventory
While more inventory is generally a positive thing, it can create a challenge of its own.
Many military buyers arrive in Ottawa expecting to quickly narrow their search down to a handful of options. Instead, they’re often faced with dozens of homes that could potentially work.
The result? Decision fatigue.
We often see clients become overwhelmed trying to compare multiple neighbourhoods, floor plans, school districts, commute times, and price points within a very short HHT window.
This is why preparation before your HHT is more important than ever. The more clarity you have on your priorities before arriving in Ottawa, the easier it becomes to make confident decisions when you’re here.
Sell Before You Buy If Possible
One of the most common questions we receive is whether clients should buy in Ottawa before selling their current home.
While every situation is different, we strongly recommend having your current home sold before your HHT whenever possible.
In today’s market, many Ottawa sellers are less willing to accept offers that are conditional upon the buyer selling their existing property. With more buyers in the marketplace who don’t require that condition, sellers often choose the cleaner offer.
Having your current home sold provides certainty, removes a significant layer of stress, and puts you in a stronger negotiating position when it’s time to make an offer.
Your HHT Shouldn’t Be All About Houses
One mistake we occasionally see is families spending every minute of their HHT inside homes.
Remember, you’re not just buying a house. You’re choosing where your family will live for the next several years.
Take time to explore the communities you’re considering.
Drive the commute to work. Visit local parks and recreation facilities. Check out nearby shopping, restaurants, and schools. Spend some time walking through neighbourhoods that interest you.
The goal isn’t simply to find the right house. It’s to find the right lifestyle.
We’ve had many clients fall in love with a neighbourhood they hadn’t originally considered after spending a few hours exploring the area outside of showings.
Final Thoughts
Military relocations always come with unique challenges, but today’s Ottawa market presents a tremendous opportunity for buyers.
With more inventory, better selection, and improved affordability compared to recent years, buyers have a real chance to find a home that checks all the boxes.
The key is arriving prepared, staying flexible, and making sure you’re evaluating both the home and the community around it.
If you’re planning an HHT to Ottawa this year, our team would be happy to help you navigate the process and make the most of your time here.
