In Toronto: Life returns to the condo market, led by investors looking for value,  plus pandemic vaccine creates 'safe' feeling lifting real estate markets to new highs. 

What happens when home sellers leave behind possessions, or even cash? Should buyers keep their findings or return it to the sellers? 

How COVID's second wave will impact unemployment and overall business, increasing the likelihood for another Bank of Canada rate cut.  

In Toronto: Home prices broke records in 2020, condo prices appear to stop declining, and the challenges of making housing affordable in this city. 

Happy New Year to Move Smartly Readers! Here's a look at the current consensus forecast and the fixed and variable mortgage rates for the year ahead. 

In Toronto: Virtual light show instead of fireworks, soaring prices should worry policy makers heading into the new year and a condo recovery could be coming.

A couple in Edmonton find $500,000 while renovating their new home. Finders, in Canada though, are not necessarily keepers.

A very Happy Holidays to Move Smartly Readers! Here's a review of top mortgage tips to take you into 2021 given the crazy year that was. 

In Toronto: Durham region home prices spike due to Toronto exodus + Mom and Pop condo investors struggle.

How concerns about the Canadian dollar rising against its U.S. counterpart may affect our mortgage rates going forward.

These are the key factors that will impact Canadian mortgages and rates going forward.

In Toronto: A vacant home tax could be coming, but is it too late? Plus, why the downtown core is key to the condo recovery. 

Why predictions of a quick resolution to the pandemic - and rising mortgage rates - may be premature.

In Toronto: What the condo slowdown could mean for the rest of the market and buyers grow shy in heated environment. 

With the Toronto condo market cooling, this month's Move Smartly report investigates which condos are to watch - and which to avoid.

Inflation spiked last month.

In Toronto: Condo prices are down 9% from peak and a new study uncovers stark inequality in renting conditions. 

Bond yields, which fixed mortgage rates are based on, have recently surged, but is this just a blip?

Our lead story in this month's Move Smartly Report unpacks conflicting reports about the condo market.

In Toronto: Young tenants are leaving tiny condos in the city's core, but for investors, it's time to watch and wait. 

With a slowing job recovery and Covid resurgent, mortgage rates are likely to fall further - here's how to take advantage.

In Toronto: Housing prices hit new record, but downtown condo sales continue to fall and alarm investors. 

With the Bank of Canada keeping its policy low last week and until 2023, the fixed vs. variable debate is an unusually one-sided one right now.

In Toronto: Single-family homes sales continue unabated while condo rents have plunged and Canada big banks not worried about real estate market.

As the gap widens between Toronto's hot market for houses and a cooling market for condos, it's more important than ever to put your moves in the right order.

Why inflationary pressures will do little to impact our declining mortgage rates.

In Toronto: Smaller markets in Ontario gain as exodus out of Toronto continues and safety concerns in the city's 'ghost hotels.' 

Will financial markets remain confident in Canadian real estate as the BoC winds up and keep our mortgage rates at their present lows?

In Toronto: Home prices soar on pent-up demand due to the pandemic, while tiny condos and condo rents are down.

This month, The Move Smartly Report digs into where Toronto's surge in condo rental supply is coming from.

Why we are not out of the Sugar Maples by a long shot.

In Toronto: Real estate prices and sales were at a high in September, but Condo-geddon looms as listings surge 215%. 

While initial numbers have been encouraging, the recovery is now proving to as sluggish as predicted.

Essential fall reading to ensure your mortgage is on the right track.

In Toronto: The rental shortage  in the coming years and slow housing development approval times.

Once again, is the real problem supply or demand?

Given current central bank policy in Canada and the U.S., will variable rate mortgages stay lower than fixed rates over the next five years?

In Toronto: How will the housing market shake out for the rest of this year and what falling rents in the condo market mean.

Our Monthly Market Report looks at how well major forecasts for Toronto area home prices are holding up six months after the start of the Covid-19 crisis.

Last Wednesday the Bank of Canada (BoC) announced that it would hold its policy rate steady, as was universally expected.

In Toronto: Why people are leaving the big smoke for suburbia and what work from home could mean for the downtown core. 

While good job numbers normally mean rising mortgage rates, our economy is still far from normal.

In Toronto: Another all-time record is hit as prices surge by 20% and rents are down, but not for everyone. 

If you want to know where mortgage rates are headed, inflation holds the key.

In Toronto: Single-family homes lead the way in the construction recovery and renters have more power in softening rental market.

In Toronto: COVID-19 have altered preferences in the housing market and one couple decides to stick with their 'tower' Toronto home. 

Why is the head of the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) going his own way amidst an economic crisis?

In Toronto: The hottest housing regions are not in the city as both buyers and renters continue to flock outside the GTA.

Canadian mortgage rates have been on a wild ride of late.

In Toronto: A record breaking July for the real estate market comes as realtors continue to see exodus from the city. 

In Toronto: Condo sales fall to their lowest rates since the Great Recession but house price activity is returning to pre-pandemic highs. 

A new legal judgement suggests that Ontario condo boards must act reasonably towards owners deemed to be non-compliant.

In Toronto: Upward pressure on pricing continues as 65 neighbourhoods see a home price increase. 

COVID-19 is redefining the world as we know it.

In Toronto: Airbnb conversions into long-term furnished condos spike and potential trouble looms in the housing market. 

Join us for the Toronto Real Estate Summit being hosted right here on Move Smartly this July 20 to 23. Watch on demand starting July 20. Free to register.

Strong jobs numbers in May and June mean little against the backdrop of unprecedented job and income loss due to COVID-19.

In Toronto: Home prices soar despite the coronavirus pandemic as John Tory is pressured to action on Ontario's eviction rules. 

Calculators, links and info you need to make the best decisions for you.

In Toronto: CMHC issues a new real estate warning, Toronto buyers flood cottage markets and city grapples with overcrowded housing amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

The Bank of Canada joins those forecasting a prolonged and difficult economic road ahead.

In Toronto:  It's now cheaper to rent than own a condo in Toronto and new build home sales hit 20-year low last month.

If you need a mortgage soon, your goal should be to maintain flexibility in case rates continue to fall.

In Toronto:  Downtown rents drop for the third consecutive month and while property market remains competitive in GTA even during a pandemic.  

In spite of three months of economic free fall due to COVID-19, the Toronto real estate market seems to be returning to its pre-pandemic vigour.

The spring real estate market is showing signs of life - and the usual big bank low rate teaser.

In Toronto:  GTA pop growth highest in North America, buyers flock to cottage country as virtual showings increase in popularity.  

Not all mortgage lenders will implement CMHC's tighter rules, opening the door to more competition.

In Toronto:  Housing sales are up but risk re-opening setbacks and mortgages controversially tightened.  

In Toronto:  Buyers starting to get back into the market and would be home sellers and tenants clash.

Canada's top mortgage body just shared some pretty bleak expectations - should we take heed?

A respected real estate lawyer warns against using untested COVID-19 clauses in property transactions.

Last week, the CMHC's CEO had a surprising suggestion.

Why the widely reported drop in condo prices in last week's news was misleading.

In the City:  Does 69% drop in sales give new buyers a chance and inside the new real estate mindset.

It's Week 10 - here's a recap of tips to manage your mortgage.

The market is now more competitive than it was four weeks ago.

In the City: Home buyers begin to venture out and poor housing connected to higher number of COVID-19 cases.

The pandemic-induced economic slowdown will lower mortgage rates - but how low will they go?

In in the City: Home sales hit a record low in April and Google's smart-city project cancelled.

These five factors will help you figure out whether you'd come out ahead.

In Toronto: Average rents for Toronto Area condos have dropped, with downtown falling fastest.

 The average rent for a condo across the Toronto area is down, while units for rent climb.

In spite of rate cuts and more aggressive measures, mortgage rates haven't lowered - until now. 

In Toronto: Condo sales plummet 69%, but one measure shows better news for larger market.

Home sales numbers continue to be down across Toronto and the GTA, but an equal drop in new homes for sale appears to be keeping prices stable.

The Bank has acted aggressively to counter the economic shocks induced by the Coronavirus and the decline of oil - and their efforts to lower mortgage rates may finally be...

Toronto: GTA home sales are down sharply and home buyers are warned that they cannot back out of their deals as the real estate market stalls in the Coronavirus crisis. 

The Greater Toronto Area saw a sharp decline in both sales and new listings as home buyers and sellers adjust to the reality of the Coronavirus crisis.

The economic fallout of the coronavirus crisis is making mortgage lenders seize up - and two main factors will determine how cautious they'll be: house prices and job losses.

Toronto: What areas are performing the best and worst in the GTA as realtors forge ahead in an uncertain landscape. 

Some markets in the Greater Toronto Area are showing signs of the type of slowdown that requires buyers and sellers to act carefully.

Why a variable rate mortgage is the clear winner for borrowers right now - while those holding HELOCs should beware. 

Toronto: The real estate market comes to a stop as the city takes new measures to halt the coronavirus spread. 

Toronto real estate market sales have dropped sharply in the third week of Ontario's state of emergency due to Coronavirus pandemic.

After nearly five years with no decreases, the bank's policy rate has dropped all the way from 1.75% to 0.25% in March alone - but not all mortgage borrowers will benefit.

Toronto: Latest on house prices, mortgage payment defferal, rental eviction freeze and more.

While the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis is unprecedented, its impact on the real estate market can be seen in terms of demand and supply effects which tend to be more familiar. 

Lenders have raised both their fixed and variable mortgage rates to the surprise of many borrowers - here's how to manage your mortgage during this stressful time.

While authorities have announced that Canadians will be able to defer their mortgage payments due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, some key limits apply.

In Toronto: Ontario stops evictions amid COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic as uncertainty casts a pall on the market. 

As the world goes into lock-down to stem the COVID-19 (Coronavirus), what should we be doing with our mortgages?

In Toronto: Coronavirus hammers the markets as home sales soar and short-term rentals get pinched. 

Global economic shocks have led to unforeseen drops in mortgage interest rates - so what should borrowers do going forward?

In Toronto: Coronavirus fears could push home prices even higher, bully buyers run rampant as prices escalate and do millennials really want condos?

Why it's unlikely that the Bank of Canada will lower its policy rate - and our mortgage rates - this Wednesday.

In Toronto: A heated market ripples outward as competition continues to thrive with foreign buyers returning to the scene. 

The necessary change would increase buyer budgets today, but likely decrease affordability in hot markets and introduce more volatility for buyers going forward.

In Toronto: A supply shortfall pushes house prices north as the fear of missing out returns to the market. 

In Toronto: Flashbacks to 2016 have key players in the housing market concerned as advocates call for more 'aggressive' affordability.

A drop in the stress-test rate would be good news for borrowers  needing to expand affordability, but should our big banks be calling these shots?

In Toronto: Home prices expected to rise by nearly 10 per cent as supply sinks as city puts plans to tax vacant homes on hold. 

An global health crisis is pushing investors towards safe havens, leading to a (lamentably costly) drop in fixed mortgage interest rates.

In Toronto: Single-family home sales recover as prices fall and how the province's new transit line could delay a major affordable housing project. 

No change to policy rate keeps variable mortgage rates steady, but a less optimistic economic outlook pushes down fixed rates. 

In Toronto: One study says it's less affordable to live in here than San Francisco or London while another indicates rent could increase seven per cent in 2020. 

In Toronto: Why condo investors may be shocked by falling rents and will a high-end home tax force out Toronto talent?

In today’s post I offer my predictions of where our fixed and variable mortgage rates are headed in 2020.

In Toronto: The market is back to its old tricks as prices soar, making it harder for newcomers to find affordable housing in the city. 

In Toronto: John Tory vows to redouble efforts on transit and affordable housing in 2020. 

Drowning in the parkas, snow pants and boots of winter and cramped for space? Consider a less traditional approach to creating a mudroom.

In Toronto: What home buyers should do in a falling real estate market, the province and federal governments team up to help low-income renters, and the city declares housing...

While many buyers simply hope for the best, others focus on finding a bargain - but all should instead focus on steering clear of the problem areas that bring an overall market...

While the mortgage stress test has helped ease overheating housing markets, will the Trudeau government finally address its flaws?

In Toronto: The provincial government recommends home co-ownership to solve housing crisis. 

This past year’s GTA real estate market may become known as the year of aborted transactions.

Pot's legal in Canada, but there are still good reasons to stay clear of a home that has been used a marijuana grow operation - here's how to do it. 

Our current economic conditions suggest that lower interest rates may be coming soon, but the Bank of Canada does not share that assessment - yet.

Because sometimes better real estate starts with making the best of what you already have.

In Toronto: John Tory reverses course, vowing to increase and extend levy on property tax. 

Sluggish 3rd quarter data means the Bank of Canada is unlikely to cut its policy rate - though it risks the need for more aggressive cuts in the future.

In Toronto: A forecast predicts 6 per cent growth for home prices in 2020 and ending the 'vicious cycle' in social housing. 

Fixed and variable mortgage rates are staying put for now - but there's a case for a rate cut in the future.

In Toronto: A provincial tribunal sides with the city in a landmark case against Airbnb landlords.

According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2019 is the Year of the Pig, but history may better remember it as the Year of the Falling Interest Rate.

When you have a small kitchen, you can't afford to have appliance regrets - here are a few with lasting power.

In Toronto: A photographic study leads to calls for a vacancy tax on empty properties and how many months' rent does it take to buy a condo? 

Variable-rate mortgage borrowers are understandably wondering whether to convert to today’s lower five-year fixed rates. But should they?

One of the trickiest rooms to get right in smaller homes is the kid's playroom - here's how to do it.

In Toronto: Home prices rise October on the back of a growing population and strong economy, plus Pharrell brings some star power to the Toronto condo scene. 

Why the variable interest rate may soon join the fixed interest rate - and start falling.

Worried about making your children share a bedroom? Why creating a successful shared environment may actually benefit them more.

In Toronto: The province's auditor general lays into Tarion for putting builders ahead of homebuyers and a seven step plan to create affordable housing. 

Given how pervasive condos are to city living, why are so many unit owners out of touch with how condos are managed?

Why you may want to prioritize flexibility when it comes to your fixed-rate mortgage right now.

Why you don't need to live in a bigger space just to keep up with the Joneses - or to thrive as a family.

In Toronto: The city backs the Liberals, but what will Toronto get back and a fickle housing market leads to lowball offers. 

Why the returning Liberal Government's first-time buyer incentives are unlikely to make much of a difference - and what policy changes would.

If the city of Toronto was serious about tackling the housing shortage, why would it charge Toronto homeowners $300,000 to legalize three bachelor apartments in their house?

In the City of Toronto, homes are currently being advertised for sale with front pad parking spots that need to be registered to be considered legal.

Canadian fixed mortgage rates continued to rise last week.

In Toronto: Baby boomers scramble for properties as they seek to downsize and a decision on Airbnb looms. 

Stuck between a slowing U.S. economy and the risk of fuelling Canadian consumer indebtedness, officials have another reason to delay a rate cut.

In Toronto: Home prices and rents expected to rise in a red-hot market as Under-35s are being left behind. 

Toronto's fall real estate market opened with continued demand for detached homes throughout the Toronto area, with York Region leading the way.

As the U.S. economy starts to stall, will Canadian variable-rate borrowers see their first drop in four years?

In Toronto: Housing market posts biggest price gain in nearly two years as the city is now the world's second most overvalued property market according to UBS. 

Toronto's booming real estate market and our love of tv reno shows has made the "flip" - a quickly renovated home - part of our everyday vocabulary, but it poses unique risks...

As Canadians head to the polls for the federal election, here are the policies they should be looking for.

In Toronto: Home buyers flood the fall market but they remain cautious and a new report indicates a crisis in the rental housing supply. 

Converging U.S. and Canadian economies makes a variable-rate cut more likely this December. 

In Toronto: Real estate 'birth year' lottery separates haves from have-nots, Toronto home prices push up the national forecast and a risky condo project in Yorkville.

More Canadian than Toronto neighbours arguing about building an addition on a house? Arguing about a shared maple tree.

What are building permits - and how can they help  you avoid buying homes with major problems?

While fixed rates seem likely to go up in the short-term, home buyers locking in rates now should ask lenders what will happen if rates fall before they move in.

In Toronto: As condos sales continue to boom, landlord and renter antagonism is on the rise.

Owner stuck with $25,000 in court costs over cottage’s pre-existing issues - in spite of paying for title insurance.

Use the latest in data technology to avoid being surprised by these common but ‘invisible’ house problems.

While the Bank of Canada sees a rocky economic outlook ahead, it didn't cut rates - yet.

In Toronto: Sales in the suburbs are up and the average cost of a one-bedroom rental reaches new and disturbing heights. 

I've seen many interesting things in Toronto's real estate market over the past twenty years, but recently came across one of the oddest things I've ever seen.

Will rising inflation prevent the Bank from cutting its policy rate at its next meeting on September 4?

In Toronto: Signs of life in the 905 housing market after a soggy spring and startling price jump in neighbourhoods over five years. 

While Canadian interest rates are likely to go lower, we'd be wrong to envy Danish-style negative interest rates.

The Bank of Canada likely overtightened during its last cycle - will it have to cut rates now that the world economy is slowing?

In Toronto: Sales are up so why are detached house prices falling, seniors staying put and construction workers feel the start of home building slowdown.

Though the U.S. rate cut last week didn't spur the expected market reaction, it means that Canada mortgage rates will likely stay steady - or lower.

In Toronto: Is the summer a good time to look for real estate deals in Toronto, Toronto insists Ottawa include affordable housing when selling off land and a Toronto renter...

Joint ownership of a home in Ontario has meant that a surviving owner becomes the sole owner - but now?

Why we might be excited by the prospect of negative yield bonds - and interest-free or lower mortgages - they would be bad news.

In Toronto: Torontonians moving less due to fewer options, bidding wars return, and the condo poo-poo problem.

A key 'stress test' faced by Canadian mortgage borrowers has been slackened - but more changes are required to increase affordability beyond a few thousand dollars.

In Toronto: New housing development applications dip under Ford government and how to maintain neighbourhood populations as families grow smaller?

The Bank of Canada left its policy rate unchanged at 1.75% last week as expected - and finally opts for caution over optimism.

In Toronto: Home sales up by 19%, condo sales dip 3% and are luxury home sellers opting out of MLS. 

Why export-oriented Canada balances its fight against inflation against the need for a competitive dollar.

In Toronto: Home sales and condo prices increase, one in three condos are investor owned, and why first-time buyers should think twice about buying cottages to get on the...

In Toronto: Amidst Pride celebrations, debates about Google-affiliated Sidewalk Labs waterfront plans dominate the real estate conversation.

The Canadian economy's most recent inflation numbers mean a rate cut is less likely - unless the U.S. Fed forces the Bank of Canada's hand.

In Toronto: The feds say GTA first-time homebuyers can still benefit from mortgage program despite $560,000 cap

In Toronto: Are mortgage stress tests making the housing crisis worse in a market with price-sensitive buyers?

If you are keeping an eye on mortgage rates, then you have probably been reading a lot about inverted yield curves lately.

The Bank of Canada is signalling an interest rate hike...so why is the bond market betting on a cut?

In Toronto: Battle over Ontario Place, renters condemn 'renoviction' and shipping containers become a community hub. (Oh, and in case you missed it, the Raptors are in the NBA...

Research shows that financial stress is among the top reasons couples get divorced. So why do we keep overspending on our homes?

In the City: Condo projects sold since 2016 in danger and Toronto battles the province over inclusionary zoning plans. 

With inflation under control, will weaker economic data mean the Bank of Canada may soon look to cut interest rates?

In the City: The Foreign Buyers tax is doing its job in the Greater Toronto Area while the housing market begins to thaw in May.

Why there is no such thing as a simple will.

If it's healthier for the economy when more of us choose longer-term mortgages, Ottawa can do something to make this happen.

In the City: Toronto sales and prices climb but not all is not well in the 905 and some basement rentals are fetching condo-range rents.Elsewhere: Bank of Canada urges lenders...

Last week we learned that Canadian GDP contracted by 0.14% in February on a month-over-month basis.

In the City: Jaw-dropping 'over asking' price in Toronto, Airbnb has impact on city housing and is housing a human right?

Have the Bank of Canada's overly optimistic forecasts actually hurt our overall economic momentum?

In the City: Now even condos only in reach of Toronto's top earners and ghost hotels cast a pall over the city. Elsewhere: Half of Canadians are $200 away from insolvency, U.S...

Will the Bank of Canada continue to shift to a more dovish outlook given latest economic developments?

In the City: Home sales perk up after dismal March and Toronto is named the world's 12th most expensive housing market. Elsewhere:  How private lending is distorting the...

What I advise home sellers to do when their home is not selling - and why it differs from the approach often taken by agents.

The five-year Government of Canada (GoC) bond yield, which our five-year fixed mortgage rates are priced on, has been on a wild ride of late.

In the City: Community housing needs urgent investment from Ottawa and realtors feel the pinch in slowing market. Elsewhere:  40% of Canadians live house poor, an architectural...

The Bank of Canada is downplaying expectations that its next rate move will be a cut - but it may not have as much choice as it wants.

Launched this past fall, TheMindfulBroker.com aims to address a critical gap in our adult education - how to meet our basic need for housing successfully.

We're inviting Move Smartly readers to be our guests at The Doll Party  exhibition & fundraising auction event at the Textile Museum of Canada on Thurs April 11th. 

In the City: Why Toronto is outpacing Vancouver and new data tweaks will paint a more accurate picture of the housing market. Elsewhere:  Canadian home prices to stay flat...

Canadian fixed mortgage rates have been on a steady downward march of late.

In the City: Housing affordability remains in crisis and explaining the exodus out of Toronto. Elsewhere:  What Trudeau's home-buying incentive really means for Canadians, why...

The Liberal Government of Canada has released a budget that seeks to help beleaguered first-time buyers - but will it help?

In the City: Dirty money is driving up real estate prices according to one report and developers cancel another sold-out project. Elsewhere: Trudeau targets millennials with...

A variable-rate mortgage sounds like a slam dunk in the current environment, but it may not be.

In the City: Toronto Community Housing dispute continues while middle-class homebuyers embrace modernist architecture. Elsewhere: Canadians don't think policy alone will solve...

What happens when there is a significant discrepancy between the way a home is described on an MLS listing vs. the Agreement of Purchase and Sale?

Given conflicting economic data, will the Bank of Canada raise or lower rates?

In the City: Sidewalk labs threatens to walk and Toronto home prices inch upwards. Elsewhere: Are current Canadian mortgage rules too strict, a Californian town takes on...

Special issues can arise from shared driveways and other shared property points. 

Will the Bank of Canada put an end to rate hike speculation when it meets this week?

In the City: Majority of Torontonians want city to have more say in housing issues and new czar tackles affordable housing. Elsewhere: Canada deals with a sluggish GDP, Oregon...

Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz way want higher rates, but he needs stable inflation.  

In the City: Outside-the-box ideas for Toronto housing and Community housing CEO gets the boot amid controversy.Elsewhere: Banks set to reveal earnings in Canada, money...

In the City:  Does Toronto need more housing innovation and Mayor John Tory's plan for affordable housing. Elsewhere: Disruptive U.S. online brokerage launches in Canada and...

The Canadian economy added 66,800 new jobs in January vs. 8,000 expected - so why aren't our mortgage rates impacted?

A key policy statement from south of the border suggests that our mortgage rates are unlikely to rise in Canada.

Toronto’s own zoning regulations are standing in the way of its goal to create 40,000 affordable housing units.

Will the latest in the trouble spots of Canadian oil prices, house prices and global trade policy change the Bank of Canada's intention to hike rates?

In the City: Has Toronto found a better way to build affordable housing and Ontario reverses Greenbelt development plan. 

In the City: What's in store for the Toronto condo market and politicians tackle the problem of (their own) high rents.

Is renting until you can save more money the sure-fire solution for an expensive housing market that it seems?

Has the Bank of Canada rushed too far in front of an uncertain economy?

In the City: Home sales fall to 10-year low, the luxury market is expected to weather the storm and Airbnb is accused of draining housing stock. 

 Frothy economic hopes are dissipating, making future mortgage rate increases unlikely.

In the City: Toronto new build home prices post biggest 12-month drop since '96 and is the Condo part going to sober up? 

The U.S. Federal Reserve is widely expected to hike its policy rate by another 0.25% when it meets this Wednesday. The question that is being actively debated is whether it...

Just like that, all of the dire warnings about rapidly rising Canadian mortgage rates disappeared faster than cookies and carrots on Christmas Eve. 

In the City: Toronto home prices continue to rise and what the hyper-concentration of jobs downtown means for housing. 

The Bank of Canada, in a softening of its stance, is not expected to raise its policy rate this week so variable mortgage rates should hold steady - and perhaps start falling...

In the City: Toronto real estate is vulnerable to money laundering and the dark side of the housing boom. 

The Bank of Canada (BoC) is caught between a rock (rising inflationary pressures) and a hard place (waning economic momentum).

In the City: The province introduces a rent control exemption that could hurt Toronto tenants and the secret of the Four Seasons. 

After studying housing markets for two decades, I have learned that making better real estate decisions is not about luck, or timing, or wealth. 

Today’s post returns to the question that every borrower I work with loves to ask: “Should I choose a five-year fixed- or variable-rate mortgage today?"

In the City: Commuting costs eat up house savings for many in the GTA and Toronto suburbs see major price declines. 

What happens when an owner receives an incorrect status certificate issued by a condominium corporation?

The Bank of Canada continues to signal policy-rate hikes soon, but does the current economic data support additional near-term increases?

In the City: Little relief in sight for Toronto home buyers as prices climb in October and the case for 30-year mortgages.

The Bank of Canada remains on course to raise interest rates - pushing up mortgage rates - but will lagging wage growth give it pause?

The Ontario government’s decision to repeal the Green Energy Act has also changed the rules for homeowners looking to sell their properties.

In the City: Home owners turn to high interest private debt, millennials are out of luck in East York and Toronto's affordable housing lottery. 

Is the market too unsettled to be considering a move?

The Bank of Canada has signalled that rates will continue to rise - but for how long given larger economic data trends?

In the City: Toronto luxury home sales drop, but high-end condo sales are up and condo boards grapple with cannabis rules. 

Will current optimism about Canada's economy push our mortgage rates up?

Housing markets are notoriously difficult to predict - but data can help home buyers and sellers answer some critical questions.

If you’re keeping an eye on Canadian mortgage rates, keep your other eye focused on what is happening south of the border.

In the City: How debt may be the newest roadblock in the real estate market, average rent for a one-bedroom condo surpasses $2,000 and mayoral candidates continue to disagree...

How will the new United States-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA) impact the Canadian economy - and our mortgage rates?

In the City: Home prices tick upward as market tightens and TREB takes legal aim at a brokerage. 

What happens when the rights of smoking and non-smoking tenants and landlords conflict?

When listing your home for sale, it’s important to choose a selling strategy that is going to help you achieve your goals.

Now that U.S. rates have increased - will Canadians rates mortgage rates follow?

In the City: GTA home sales rebound after a dark period and TREB CEO voices privacy concerns. 

After years without rate increases, variable rate borrowers may soon see an increase for the fifth time in a row - is it time to lock into a fixed rate?

In the City: Realtors still lack access to TREB sales data and city council candidates are asked to sign affordable housing pledge.  

Home buyers need to come up with the money for a winning bid - even in a declining market.

An insider looks back on the impact of the 2008 U.S. subprime mortgage crisis from a Canadian perspective.

In the City:  TREB warns real estate agents and those waiting for a Toronto house price crash likely to be disappointed. 

Buyers of lakefront cottages should be aware of whether their land touches the water not only in fact but according to the registered title.

If the Bank of Canada has moved to responding to fast-moving incoming data, will rates really rise in late October as currently expected?

In the City: Home prices rise as the housing market stabilizes following a turbulent year. 

We offered less money and there was another offer on the table for more which the seller turned down - why?

Many expect the Bank of Canada to raise rates in late October - but does NAFTA uncertainty make that less likely?

In the City: The Toronto Real Estate Board tries to 'protect data' after losing anti-competition case and younger residents think about leaving Toronto due to high housing...

While the consensus expects another BoC rate rise in October, economic data between now and then may suggest otherwise. 

In the City: End of a long legal fight means Toronto area realtors can now publish home sales data online. 

When the sellers of a home hire a stager to help market and sell it, who owns the rights to the before and after photographs? 

In the City: The Toronto home search moves to smaller Ontario cities and the GTA leads Canadian home sales.

If a lawyer receives an incentive from a title insurance company for arranging a client's policy, who should get the benefit: the lawyer or the client?

Why did Canadian bond yields, which our five-year fixed mortgage rates are priced on, finish lower in spite of a jump in new jobs?

In the City: Cottage country denizens face off with Toronto buyers and condo buyers get more space in Waterloo and Hamilton.

Here are five news items from last week that should be of interest to anyone keeping an eye on Canadian mortgage rates.

Toronto: Home sales and prices rise in Toronto region for second straight month as buyers return to the market. 

By July and August, many homes that would have attracted multiple offers weeks prior are sitting on the market for two to three times as long. Why?

The key question for anyone keeping an eye on Canadian mortgage rates. 

Toronto: Will a $10-million housing solution be affordable and Toronto beats the Bay Area in tech jobs. 

Last Friday we learned that overall Canadian inflation, as measured by our Consumer Price Index (CPI), came in at 2.5% in June, and that result was higher than the consensus...

Building deficiencies resulting from poorly regulated construction and that affect the sale of a property are now covered under title insurance in the wake of a recent Superior...

The Bank of Canada (BoC) raised its overnight rate by 0.25% last Wednesday and it now stands at 1.5%. The move was widely expected, and Canadian lenders quickly increased their...

Toronto: Experts predict a return to normal GTA housing prices and Toronto facing undersupply of new homes. 

Even with the general slowdown of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) real estate market from our peak last year many neighbourhoods are still experiencing high levels of demand.

It is widely expected that the Bank of Canada (BoC) will raise its overnight rate by another 0.25% when it meets this week, and if it does, lenders will pass that increase on...

Toronto: Home prices at 13-month high amid influx of buyers and Mayor's affordable housing plan misses the mark. 

In its most recent policy statement released on May 30, the Bank of Canada (BoC) gave every indication that it would raise its overnight rate, which our variable mortgage rates...

Toronto: Condo market may hit turbulence and can the city afford mid-rise housing? 

This is the sad story of a $109,000 flower box. It all began in a large project of 213 condominium garden homes known as Bethamy Woods, in Ottawa.

The Bank of Canada just got another reminder about the perils of offering forward guidance.

This Week in Real Estate in Toronto: A directionless summer draws lowball offers and how people under 30 managed to buy in the city. 

How your selling strategy may be confusing buyers - enough to keep them away.

The Bank of Canada (BoC) held its policy rate steady last week but warned in its accompanying statement that our next rate hike is not far off.

Toronto: High house prices widen the inequality gap and how various Ontarians are fairing in the housing. market. 

Can a person be convicted of illegally removing a property-line tree when the City has issued a permit authorizing it?

As the variable-rate mortgage wars rage on, savvy borrowers are advised to look carefully at the terms and conditions in their mortgage contract.

Toronto: New home sales in GTA hit worst April in decades and the city puts focus on two and three bedroom units.

Elsewhere: Mortgage stress tests aren't killing the Canadian...

In last week’s post I made the case for five-year variable rates over their fixed-rate equivalents, based on my current view of where our economy is headed. 

A recent court case emphasizes the importance of using a survey and getting accurate property measurements before signing an agreement in a home purchase.

Toronto: Toronto buyers pushed to Hamilton, Toronto sellers aren't panicking and the mistake that cost sellers millions in last year's bubble. 

Elsewhere: The American housing...

We're excited to hear artist and architect Em Cheng talk about her exhibit of digital drawings at the Bloor/Gladstone Library tonight Thurs May 17 at 6:30pm. 1101 Bloor Street...

This time last year, nearly 1,000 Toronto home buyers and sellers suffered major financial losses - could they have done something differently or was it just bad timing?

It’s time for a fresh look at the question every borrower loves to ask: Is now a good time to choose a fixed or variable rate?

Toronto: Why the GTA condo market is still hot and high-end home sales hit by new rules. 

Elsewhere: Canada takes drastic steps to make housing more affordable, high prices in...

Toronto: Home prices are steadying but sales are off to weakest start since 2009 recession. 

Elsewhere: BC considers more changes to real estate regulations, examining why New...

How is it that 22 condominium owners in a north Toronto development do not own the units they are living in?

Last week TD Canada Trust raised its five-year posted rate from 5.14% to 5.59%, and shortly thereafter, Royal Bank and National Bank increased their five-year posted rates from...

Toronto: Proposed hikes in development charges shock condo industry.

Elsewhere: Did Ontario's real estate tax close the deal, Canada's housing market is still vulnerable to...

The Bank of Canada (BoC) left its overnight rate unchanged last week, as most market watchers expected. The Bank also released its latest quarterly Monetary Policy Report...

Gillean Gibb and Liliana Maria Pereira are next-door neighbours on Grosvenor St., in London, Ont.

The Bank of Canada (BoC) meets this Wednesday, and while most market watchers aren’t expecting the Bank to raise its overnight rate at this meeting there is still the...

Toronto's 2017 housing bubble hurt consumers and worsened affordability, with some areas affected far more significantly than others. 

Elsewhere: Canadian housing starts slowed...

Last Friday Statistics Canada released our latest employment report, for March.

Is a purchaser entitled to back out of a real estate purchase deal if she finds out before closing that the home was the site of a murder?

Toronto's housing market shows signs of a rebound as affordability rises across Canada.

Elsewhere: Millennials behind surge in home buying intentions in Canada, Manhattan home...

Last week, Statistics Canada confirmed that our economic momentum slowed sharply in January as our GDP fell by 0.1% over the month. The drop was primarily attributed to sharp...

A tale of  two markets in Toronto and top economists weigh in on GTA housing situation.

Elsewhere: BMO says Canadian housing market facing decade of stagnation, HUD scales back...

When a parent registers title to a home in joint names with a child, and the family relationship later breaks down, the results can be unhappy — and expensive — for all...

Last week Statistics Canada confirmed that year-over-year overall inflation growth spiked from 1.7% in January to 2.2% in February. At the same time, two of the three gauges...

Toronto crash fears, Milton grows up and A-Rod boosts GTA real estate dreams.

Elsewhere: Scotiabank not worried about Canada debt, California housing problems spillover and...

Dozens of purchasers in a Mississauga condominium project are awaiting news of further developments after the project was destroyed by fire earlier this month.

Is the city's budget too reliant on a 'volatile' property market, Doug Ford readies plans for housing and luxury properties are swept up in Toronto's housing slump. 

Dave Larock in Interest Rate Update, Mortgages and Finances

When the Bank of Canada (BoC) met last week, it left its overnight rate unchanged, as expected.

The only real...

 Realosophy Team in Media Roundup, Toronto Real Estate News

Photo Credit: Blog TO

All you need to know regarding the housing market in Toronto, Canada and abroad.

This week in...

Dave Larock in Interest Rate Update, Mortgages and Finances

Last Thursday, seemingly out of the blue, President Trump announced that the U.S. would impose a 25% tariff on...

 Realosophy Team in Media Roundup, Toronto Real Estate News

Photo Credit: Daily Hive

All you need to know regarding the housing market in Toronto, Canada and abroad.

...

Dave Larock in Interest Rate Update, Mortgages and Finances

Our January inflation data have provided the latest fuel for the ongoing debate about when the Bank of Canada (BoC)...

 Realosophy Team in Media Roundup, Toronto Real Estate News

Photo Credit: CBC

All you need to know regarding the housing market in Toronto, Canada and abroad.

This week in...

Dave Larock in Interest Rate Update, Mortgages and Finances

After thirteen straight months of impressive gains, Canada’s labour market hit the brakes hard last month.

Our...

 Realosophy Team in Media Roundup, Toronto Real Estate News

Photo Credit: Blog TO

All you need to know regarding the housing market in Toronto, Canada and abroad.

This week in...

Bob Aaron in Legal 

Dave Larock in Interest Rate Update, Mortgages and Finances

Last Friday U.S. bond yields surged higher as investors reacted to the release of a stronger-than-expected U.S....

 Realosophy Team in Media Roundup, Toronto Real Estate News

Photo Credit: Daily Hive

All you need to know regarding the housing market in Toronto, Canada and abroad.

...

Dave Larock in Interest Rate Update, Mortgages and Finances

The consensus continues to believe that the Bank of Canada (BoC) will raise its policy rate by another 0.50% to...

 Realosophy Team in Media Roundup, Toronto Real Estate News

Photo Credit: Metro

All you need to know regarding the housing market in Toronto, Canada and abroad.

This week in...

Bob Aaron in Legal, Home Buying, Condo Buying

Dave Larock in Interest Rate Update, Mortgages and Finances

The Bank of Canada (BoC) raised its policy rate by 0.25% last week, and it now stands at 1.25%.

Lender prime rates...

 Realosophy Team in Media Roundup, Toronto Real Estate News

Photo Credit: Daily Hive

All you need to know regarding the housing market in Toronto, Canada and abroad.

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