After more than three decades guiding clients through shifting markets, I’m encouraged to see signs of early momentum returning to Canada’s housing sector. This year, we’ve observed resales picking up, inventory levels stabilizing, and prices finding their footing—positive signals that affordability and employment trends are helping buyers regain confidence. Many who postponed their home search are now in a stronger financial position, with improved savings and job stability, and seem ready to step back in when the timing feels right.

Looking ahead, the forecast for 2026 anticipates a slight dip in resales—down about 4% to 453,000—and a modest decrease in benchmark prices, roughly 2% lower at $794,000. However, expectations are for growth to resume in 2027 across all provinces, though the recovery may feel more gradual than dramatic. Borrowing costs are hovering near their lows, with the central bank likely to hold rates steady, though international trade tensions and energy shocks could still influence our market’s pace.

Having navigated countless transitions in real estate since 1985, I know how vital it is to stay informed and prepared. My approach remains rooted in providing trusted, individualized guidance—helping each client interpret market changes and make decisions with clarity and confidence. As we look toward a steadier recovery ahead, I’m here to support your real estate journey every step of the way.

Having witnessed decades of shifts in Canada's real estate market, I’ve seen how factors like development fees can quietly shape the homes available to families. According to a recent national housing agency report, reducing these fees could make approximately 14% more residential projects financially viable. The impact is especially striking in cities like Toronto and Vancouver—where eliminating charges could boost feasible projects by around 10%. In Toronto’s case, this could address half of the city’s stated housing supply gap. When you compare Calgary’s development fees—ranging from about $4,000 for a one-bedroom high-rise to $9,000 for a detached home—with Vancouver’s much higher $20,000–$33,000 range, it’s clear costs vary widely across the country. Of course, development fees do fund crucial infrastructure like roads, sewers, and administrative costs, so finding a balanced solution is key. For families, especially those seeking larger homes, lower fees could help new builds better compete with resale options in our most expensive markets. After helping many clients navigate these challenges, I know that understanding these numbers makes a real difference when searching for the right home.

Ontario’s rental landscape is about to experience notable shifts, with new rules set to affect both landlords and tenants starting September 21. Under these changes, landlords can now issue N4 non-payment notices with a shorter minimum notice period—seven days instead of the previous 14 in most cases. It’s important to remember that an N4 is not an eviction: only a board order can lead to that next step, and landlords are not permitted to change locks or remove tenants on their own. The province is also clarifying how repeated late payments are handled: if rent is paid seven days late at least three times in six months, there’s now a clear standard. For those navigating N12 notices for personal use, providing at least 120 days’ notice and ending at the rental period can exempt landlords from the usual one-month rent compensation. After an N12 move-out, the person set to occupy the unit must move in within 60 days, or there may be a presumption of bad faith. These updates are designed to streamline board cases while ensuring fair hearing rights for all involved. As someone who’s guided clients through decades of evolving regulations, I know how essential it is to stay informed, keep careful records, and ensure every step is handled properly. Attention to detail and up-to-date knowledge have always been key to protecting my clients’ interests—especially when the rules change.

Recent research from Canada’s central bank highlights an important reality for buyers and sellers: while interest rate cuts can spark a quick uptick in housing demand, the supply of homes takes much longer to respond. As someone who’s guided families through every market cycle since 1985, I’ve seen firsthand how affordability challenges aren’t solved by cheaper borrowing alone. In Canada, the data shows resales tend to rise almost immediately after rate cuts, with the full impact emerging 18 to 24 months later. New construction, however, only begins to pick up about two years after rates drop—largely due to the lengthy planning and permitting process, especially for multi-unit developments. Strong job markets can make these effects even more pronounced, as confident households move quickly while builders need time to catch up. The message for clients: while lower rates may eventually support more building, affordability depends on more than just monetary policy. Trusted guidance is essential to navigating these evolving market forces and making informed decisions—something I remain deeply committed to providing every step of the way.