Sotheby’s International Realty Canada is predicting strong results for the luxury real estate market this fall.

The high-end real estate market increased in the first half of 2013, in comparison to the last half of 2012, according to Sotheby’s Top-Tier Real Estate Report. Single-family home sales were up 67 per cent in Calgary, 65 per cent in Vancouver, 61 per cent in Toronto, and 29 per cent in Montreal. Sales of condos over $1-million were also up in Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto.

Sotheby’s findings indicate strong sales activity over the summer. The predictions of a strong fall market come as a result of expected growth in the volume and diversity of international buyer demand for luxury real estate from regions including China, Russia, India and the U.S.

“In examining the performance of the high-end market, we feel confident that Canada’s largest urban centres remain in exceptional positions heading into fall, with healthy market fundamentals from coast to coast,” says Sotheby’s president and CEO, Ross McCredie.

While the report predicts the luxury condo market will remain stable in most Canadian markets, Toronto’s high-end condo market is expected to strengthen. In particular, the industry will see an increase in condo re-sales in both the conventional and high-end markets compared to earlier this year.

The report also predicts that positive sales momentum in Montreal condos in the $1 to $2 million range will continue from the first half of the year. International buyers are honing in on Montreal condos, with some purchasing multiple 600-square-foot units in new developments.