⚓ Table of Contents
- ⚓ What’s Changing in Kingston’s Market?
- ⚓ Will Higher Rates Hurt Kingston Landlords?
- ⚓ Signs It Might Be Time to Exit the Kingston Rental Market
- ⚓ When Holding Still Makes Sense
- ⚓ How to Sell Smart—Without Losing ROI
- ⚓ Final Thoughts: Know When to Hold and When to Exit
⚓ What’s Changing in Kingston’s Market?
Kingston has historically been a solid bet. Anchored by Queen’s University, healthcare facilities, and steady government jobs, the city attracts stable renters. But in 2025, market dynamics are more complex:
- Student housing is oversupplied in some zones
- Vacancy rates are inching up, especially for dated units
- Operating costs have jumped—insurance, utilities, and contractor fees are all higher
See the CMHC Rental Market Report for data on local trends.
⚓ Will Higher Rates Hurt Kingston Landlords?
If the Bank of Canada increases interest rates again in late 2025, here’s how landlords could be affected:
- Rising mortgage payments on variable-rate properties
- Difficulty refinancing for renovations
- Slower tenant turnover as renters delay buying homes
- Compression in cap rates, reducing property value
Use our Cap Rate Calculator to run your numbers.
⚓ Signs It Might Be Time to Exit the Kingston Rental Market
- Your cash flow is razor-thin or negative
- Your property needs major repairs or upgrades
- You’ve hit the Rent Increase Guideline ceiling
- Tenant quality is declining and vacancy is rising
- You’re no longer enjoying property management—or you’re out of province
Selling now could allow you to reinvest in stronger markets like Belleville, Trenton, or Cobourg. See our Ontario Rental Cities Guide.
⚓ When Holding Still Makes Sense
If you own a turnkey unit in a high-demand location and your mortgage is locked in at a low fixed rate, holding may pay off. Ideal scenarios include:
- Long-term tenants with low turnover
- Controlled expenses with recent upgrades
- Working with a local property management company
- Appealing to mid-term renters like hospital staff
⚓ How to Sell Smart—Without Losing ROI
- Stage to attract investor buyers
- Highlight rental income in your MLS listing
- List before policy or rate changes hit
- Partner with pros who understand landlord deals. See our Landlord Exit Strategy Guide
⚓ Final Thoughts: Know When to Hold and When to Exit
The decision to exit the Kingston rental market in 2025 depends on your numbers, stress level, and future goals. If your property isn’t performing, this may be your moment to pivot.
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