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A Look Back at Toronto’s Housing Market in 2024

Toronto Resale Housing Market: A Tale of Two Halves in 2024

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Last Week’s Surprising Bond-Market Moves Are Good News for Canadian Mortgage Rates

Last Friday brought some surprising holiday cheer for anyone keeping an eye on Canadian mortgage rates.

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Reviving an Old Idea to Solve Modern Housing Challenges – Land Value Tax

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Mixed Signals Amidst Sales Growth for Toronto's Housing Market

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A Toronto Homeowner Died. Then a Stranger Tried to Drain Her Home of its Equity

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What Disappointing GDP Growth Means for Canadian Mortgage Rates

Last Friday Statistics Canada confirmed that our GDP increased by only 1% quarter-over-quarter (QoQ) in Q3, down from 2.2% in Q2.

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Why Our Inflation Uptick Is Unlikely to Deter the Bank of Canada’s Rate Cut Plans

Last week Statistics Canada confirmed that our Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased to 2.0% in October, above the consensus forecast of 1.9%.

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How Canada’s Immigration Cuts Will Impact Housing

The Liberal Federal Government continues to make a sharp policy turn in greatly reducing Canada's immigration numbers - how will it impact our housing market?

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A Warning About Canadian Fixed Mortgage Rates

Will fixed mortgage rates keep falling?

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Canada’s New Condo Sales Hangover

As pre-construction condo sales flatline - what factor is really to blame?

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A Busy Week for Mortgage-Related News

Last week was packed with news worth noting for Canadians keeping an eye on mortgage rates.

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Toronto’s Housing Market Turns a Corner as Sales Surge

After six sluggish months, Toronto’s housing market finally turned a corner as sales surged 45% year over year for low-rise homes and 32% for condominiums in October.

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Taxpayers Who Sell or Who Have Sold Airbnb Units: The CRA is Watching

The market for Airbnb houses and condos is likely to take a significant hit in the wake of a ruling earlier this year by the Tax Court of Canada, which held that the sale of a...

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Have Canadian Fixed Mortgage Rates Bottomed?

Canadian mortgage borrowers have benefitted from some helpful tailwinds of late.

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The Bank of Canada Beats a Hasty Retreat

The Bank of Canada (BoC) reduced its policy rate by 0.50% last Wednesday, from 4.25% to 3.75%.

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Why a 0.50% Rate Cut by the Bank of Canada is a No Brainer

The Bank of Canada (BoC) needs to sharply reduce its policy rate, and fast.

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What New Research Says About How Investors Impact Home Prices

This week, Urmi talks to John about how his own research into how investors impact the housing market as he completes his own doctoral degree on the same.

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Monday Morning Interest Rate Update

Recapping the latest mortgage news over the past few weeks

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Toronto’s Fall Housing Market Remains Cool As Rate Cuts Not As Certain

While the Toronto area experienced an unseasonably warm September this year, the housing market remained cool.

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Bond Yields Take a U-Turn. Are Canadian Fixed Mortgage Rates Next?

Last week provided a reminder of why bond yields and mortgage rates are so difficult to forecast.

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Bull or Bear? How Big Mortgage Moves and More Will Impact Canada’s Sluggish Real Estate Market — Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate Roundtable October 2024

It’s October Roundtable Rumble time!

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Selling a House to Buy a House? Watch Out for Same-Day Transactions!

Judge finds it foreseeable sellers might rely on proceeds of sale to meet obligations to buy another house. Bob Aaron says it’s best to have backup financing.

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A Mortgage Stress-Test Change at Last

Last week the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI), our banking regulator, announced that it will no longer require any renewing mortgage borrowers to...

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Should We Sell Before We Buy? + Do I Have to Pay Tax To Move into My Own Condo Rental? — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A

It's time for your questions on our September consumer Q/A segment, ‘The Situation’.

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Canada's Big Mortgage Moves - How Will They Impact the Housing Market?

In our latest Move Smartly ideas discussion, we assess whether the Liberal Federal Government's announced mortgage changes will help make housing more affordable as claimed.

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A Smorgasbord of Good News for Canadian Mortgage Borrowers

Latest happenings in Canada and the U.S. made for a big week in Canadian mortgage news.

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How Low Will the US Fed Go This Wednesday?

The US Federal Reserve meets this week, and the market unanimously expects that it will reduce its policy rate for the first time since the start of the pandemic.

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Poilievre Pivots on Housing and Immigration

Why wasn't opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, like so many other Canadian leaders, able to see the problem earlier?

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Thoughts on the Bank of Canada’s Most Recent Rate Cut and Commentary

Last week the Bank of Canada (BoC) dropped its policy rate from 4.50% to 4.25%, as expected.

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All Eyes Are On the Fall Housing Market

What buyers and sellers do in September will set the tone for the rest of the season.

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Why the Bank of Canada Should Cut by 0.50% This Week

The Bank of Canada probably won’t cut by 0.50% this Wednesday, but I think they will wish they had when all is said and done.

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Should Canada Curb Airbnbs in Housing Shortage? + Why Aren’t Home Prices Falling? — Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate Roundtable August 2024

From earlier this month, one of our hotter Toronto-Vancouver real estate roundtables.

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Canadian Inflation Falls and the US Fed Pivots

Last week saw encouraging developments on both sides of the 49th parallel for anyone hoping that Canadian mortgage rates will continue to drop.

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What Europe Can Teach Canada About Missing Middle Housing: Athens, Greece

In our latest Move Smartly ideas discussion, I explore what lessons we can - and can't - learn from the drive to building mass affordable housing around this world.

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How the Latest US Economic Data Have Impacted Fed Rate Cut Prospects

The latest US economic data have US bond-market investors paring back their bets on a 0.50% rate cut by the US Federal Reserve at its next meeting on September 18.

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Why is CMHC Supporting Airbnb Investors in a Housing Supply Crisis?

Over 100,000 existing homes could be freed up to address the 3.5 million home gap needed to restore affordability - so why isn't Canada's leading housing agency acting on this?

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Why the Canadian Employment Narrative Is About to Change

We lost 2,800 jobs on a net basis last month, following a net loss of 1,400 jobs in June. The latest result was well below the consensus forecast of +25,000.

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Why Aren’t Condo Prices Falling Yet?

The Greater Toronto Area has a record 11,079 condominium units available for sale, the highest number of units for any month in any year. 

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Bond-Market Investors Now Expect the US Fed to Start Slashing Its Policy Rate Soon

Bond yields plunged last week as investors repositioned themselves for a US led global economic slowdown.

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The Bank of Canada Cuts and Coos

The Bank of Canada (BoC) cut its policy rate by another 0.25% last Wednesday, lowering it to 4.5%.

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Time to Tax Principal Residence Gains? + Will Condo Listing Surge Help Buyers? — Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate Roundtable July 2024

From earlier this month, a world-spanning July episode of the Toronto-Vancouver real estate roundtable with John in Greece, Steve in Vancouver and Urmi in Toronto!

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Inflation and Inflation Expectations Have Reset Lower. Are Mortgage Rates Next?

Today’s post explains why I think the Bank of Canada will cut this week, and several more times in short order.

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Easing US Inflation is Good News for Canadian Mortgage Borrowers

Last week we learned that US inflation cooled in June. That was welcome news for anyone keeping an eye on Canadian mortgage rates.

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Why Does Toronto Have a Record Number of Condos for Sale During a Housing Shortage?

The number of condos available for sale in the Toronto area has reached another new record high — so will this surge ease our housing shortage?

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How Will Weak Employment Data Impact Canadian Mortgage Rates?

The market’s initial reaction to new economic data is worth noting, but if you’re trying to predict where mortgage rates are headed, it is also important to keep an eye on longer...

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Will Last Month’s Inflation Uptick Alter the Bank of Canada’s Plans?

Move Smartly mortgage expert David Larock explains what Canadian mortgage holders need to know each week.

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Should I Get a Better Performing Investment Property? + Will a Co-Ownership Company Finally Get Me Onto the Property Ladder? — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A

It's time for your questions on our June consumer Q/A segment, ‘The Situation’.

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Is US Economic Momentum Really That Strong?

It doesn’t take long for anyone keeping an eye on Canadian mortgage rates to see the impact on them from US economic developments.

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Is Canada Propping up Condo Investors to Prevent Prices From Falling?

While most media headlines regarding Toronto’s condo market have focused on the record number of units listed for sale, there is a bigger and more troubling risk that few have...

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Expect Canada’s Economy to Get Worse Before Things Get Better

The outlook for Canada’s economy and housing market is challenging, with more difficulties likely before any improvement.

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How the US Fed’s Latest Decision Will Impact Canadian Mortgage Rates

The US Federal Reserve held its policy rate steady last week, as expected.

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Will the Bank’s Rate Cut Spur Yet Another Toronto Housing Market Boom?

Some prominent real estate industry figures are predicting boom times will return to the Toronto housing market - what can home buyers and sellers really expect?

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Will Condo Prices Fall as Listings Hit Record High? + Impact of First Interest Rate Cut — Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate Roundtable June 2024

It’s the first summer episode for the Toronto-Vancouver real estate roundtable time with Urmi, Steve and John!

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How Low Will the Bank of Canada Go?

The Bank of Canada (BoC) reduced its policy rate from 5.00% to 4.75% last week, marking its first cut since it slashed its policy rate by 1.50% in March 2020 during the early...

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Record Number of Condos for Sale in the Toronto Area

At the end of May, the Toronto area had 9,951 condominiums available for sale, the highest number of units for sale for any month in recent history. 

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Fixed vs Variable Mortgage Rates: Which Option Will Save You Money?

The Bank of Canada (BoC) meets this Wednesday, and bond-market investors now put the odds of a 0.25% rate cut at about 70%. 

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Booming Population and Plummeting Housing Starts: What’s Next for Toronto’s Housing Market?

Canada's population is experiencing rapid growth, but housing starts are plummeting, raising concerns for the future of Toronto's housing market. This article explores the...

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Softer Inflation Should Usher in the First Bank of Canada Rate Cut

Last week, Statistics Canada confirmed that inflation pressures declined again in April.

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Pricing Your Home Right: Strategies for a Successful Sale

Deciding on the most effective pricing strategy when selling your home can be a critical factor in achieving a successful sale. This post explores the two primary approaches to...

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Was Our Latest Employment Data Just Sound and Fury?

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Delayed Rate Cuts Chill Toronto’s Spring Real Estate Market

Normally the busiest time of the year, soft demand for houses and a spike in condo listings stand out in last month's market statistics.

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Welcome Relief for Canadian Fixed-Rate Mortgage Borrowers

Bond yields finally broke lower last week, and that has relieved some of the pressure on our fixed- mortgage rates.

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Why is My Pre-Con Condo Worth Less Than I Paid? + Should I Sell Before Capital Gains Tax Increase? — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A

It's time for your questions on our May consumer Q/A segment, ‘The Situation’.

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Does Rent Control Kill Rental Supply?

While many in Canada argue yes, data and the experience of other economically liberal countries says otherwise.

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Canadian Variable Mortgage Rates Should Fall Soon, But Fixed Mortgage Rates Are Headed the Other Way

Today’s post explains why our fixed and variable mortgage rates will likely be heading in opposite directions in the near future.

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How Canada's Housing Obsession is Killing Our Economic Productivity

Our fallen productivity is a "national emergency."

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Why A Bad Budget May Actually Leave Us Better Off

Government spending is high on both sides of border - here's how it may matter to our mortgage rates.

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Unpacking the Liberal’s ‘Housing First’ Federal Budget

Canada’s governing Liberals have released a federal budget to solve the housing crisis as they head off low polling numbers ahead of next year’s election.

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Five Mortgage Highlights from the Bank of Canada’s Latest Update

Five key observations about the Bank's latest communications, which will be of interest to anyone keeping an eye on Canadian mortgage rates.

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Detached Home Market Remains Competitive Despite Soft Sales

The latest stats are in for March 2024.

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How Investors Took Over the Market + Why Liberals Renter Policies Won’t Help — Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate Roundtable

It’s Toronto-Vancouver real estate roundtable time with Urmi, Steve and John! 

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Why the Bank of Canada Probably Won’t Talk About Rate Cuts This Week

When will much anticipated rate cuts start happening? 

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Why the Liberals ‘Renter Bill of Rights’ May Be Our Next Useless Boondoggle

The latest in the Liberal federal government’s pre-budget policy offensive will do little to help renters.

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Canadian Mortgage-Related News Update – Separating Wheat from Chaff

Mortgage-related news made headlines again last week.

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Should I Buy My Home From My Landlord? + Do Garden/Laneway Suites Add Value? — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A

It's time for our popular consumer Q/A segment, ‘The Situation’ on the latest Move Smartly show episode.

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Our Crumbling Foundation - How We Solve Canada’s Housing Crisis: An Interview with Author Gregor Craigie

Urmi talks to Gregor Craigie, a journalist, Host of ‘This Island’ on CBC Radio One in Victoria, and author of the new book, “Our Crumbling Foundation: How We Solve Canada’s...

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Federal Liberals Take A Big Step Towards Making Homes More Affordable

A major new announcement on a change to Canada's immigration targets will have a bigger impact on our housing affordability crisis than it may first appear.

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Five Important Updates on Canadian Mortgage Rates

Last week was chock full of news with implications for Canadian mortgage rates.

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What To Do When A Tenant Walks Away From A $20K 'Cash for Keys' Offer

Selling a tenanted property in Ontario to a buyer who wishes to occupy for own use sometimes requires more complicated negotiations.

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Will Upcoming Mortgage Renewals Hurt Canada’s Housing Market and Economy? — March Toronto Area Real Estate Market Live Update & Q/A

Each month in this live session, I discuss the latest stats, on the ground realities and answer consumer questions about the Toronto area real estate market right now.

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First We Tried Tiny Condos, Now Are Tiny House Rentals Going to Help Our Housing Crisis?

While Canada may have a massive housing shortage, it suddenly does not have a shortage of ideas to solve our housing crisis. 

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The Longer the First Rate Cut Takes, the Lower Our Variable Mortgage Rates Will Go

Last week the Bank of Canada held its policy rate steady at 5%.

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Are Rates Really Coming Down? + Construction Slump-Led Recession? — Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate

It’s time for our March Toronto-Vancouver real estate roundtable with Urmi, Steve and John!

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New Listings On The Rise in Toronto Area Housing Market

Latest data shows Toronto’s housing market remained competitive in February, but a significant increase in new listings is taking some heat out of the market.

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How Can Toronto Home Prices Stay So High? + Neighbour As Agent? — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A

In our latest monthly consumer Q&A, I respond to the detailed questions that real estate consumers across the GTA are asking now.

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The Bank of Canada’s First Rate Cut Should Not Be Far Off

It will be a shock if the Bank of Canada moves its policy rate when it meets this week.

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Is Toronto in a Housing Bubble That's About to Burst?

Is Toronto in a Housing Bubble That's About to Burst?

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Why Canadian Fixed and Variable Mortgage Rates May Be Heading in Different Directions

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The Impact of Canada’s Changing Immigration Policy: An Interview with Mikal Skuterud

This week, John and I engage in a lively discussion with economist Mikal Skuterud about Canada's changing migration landscape, challenging some common myths, assessing impacts on...

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Condo Rents Are Down - For How Long?

I look into the data to understand why Toronto area condo rents have been falling over the last 5 months.

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Buying or Selling a Tenanted Property - What You Need to Know

There are many things home buyers and sellers need to know if they are considering buying or selling a tenanted property in Ontario. 

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Is Canadian Employment Really as Strong as It Looked Last Month?

A closer look at the data suggests a soft landing may still be elusive. 

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Market Heats Up As Confidence Rises For Now - Feb 2024 Roundtable

The market is heating up as we’re back with our Feb Toronto-Vancouver real estate roundtable with Urmi, Steve and John!

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Toronto Area Housing Market off to a Hot Start in 2024

The housing market in the Toronto area became far more competitive in January thanks to a rapid increase in the number of sales and moderate to no growth in the number of new...

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Why A Recession Is Still the Most Likely Outcome

Last week continued a run of surprisingly strong economic data on both sides of the 49th parallel.

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Are Bidding Wars Back? + When Should I Sell? - 'The Situation' Q/A - Feb 2024

In our latest monthly consumer Q&A, I respond to the detailed questions that real estate consumers across the GTA are asking now.

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Will Canada’s International Student Cap Impact the Housing Market?

The federal government is now scrambling to reign in Canada's spiking foreign student numbers - how will this impact the housing market?

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Five Key Takeaways from the Bank of Canada’s Latest Update

The Bank of Canada held its policy rate at 5% last week, as expected.

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Why Demand is More Important Than Supply in Canada’s Housing Affordability Crisis

We return to our semi-regular feature, Move Smartly ideas, where Urmi and John unpack and discuss some of the bigger issues impacting the housing market in Toronto and Canada.

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When Will the Bank of Canada Start to Cut?

The Bank of Canada (BoC) isn’t expected to cut its policy rate when it meets this Wednesday, so the focus this time will be for hints on the timing of when the first one will...

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Pent Up Buyer Demand? + Inflation to Delay Interest Rate Decline? — January Toronto Area Real Estate Market Live Update & Q/A

Each month in this live session, I discuss the latest stats, on the ground realities and answer consumer questions about the Toronto area real estate market right now.

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The Federal Government Knew High Immigration Could Impact Housing Costs

Why did our federal government ignore the warnings if the impact of Canada’s high population growth on housing was so obvious?

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Toronto’s Roller Coaster 2023 Housing Market Ended With 20 Year Low in Sales

The GTA’s housing market ended the year with the lowest number of home sales in over 20 years. 

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The Bank of Canada’s Inflation Pickle

Shelter costs are the biggest component of inflation - so will the Bank of Canada start to measure inflation without it, knowing its own rate moves have an impact?

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Looking Back at 2023 and What’s Next? + Canada’s Debt Crisis?

It’s a New Year — and we’re back with our first roundtable for 2024 on Toronto-Vancouver real estate roundtable with Urmi, Steve and John!

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Canadian Mortgage and Real-Estate Predictions for 2024

This week's Canadian mortgage news and tips from expert David Larock.

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Canadian Mortgage Rates Are Set to Drop Again (Thanks to the US Fed)

The year ends with a likely change to the higher-for-longer interest-rate view.

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Is Toronto's Market Turning a Corner? - December 2023 Market Update

Is Toronto’s housing market turning another corner after being sluggish over the past few months?

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Should I Airbnb, Rent Out Longer or Sell? + Can I Get a Family Home for 500K?

In our monthly consumer Q&A, ‘‘The Situation’, Urmi asks and John responds to the detailed questions that real estate consumers across the GTA have sent in. 

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Five Key Take-Aways from the Bank of Canada’s Latest Policy-Rate Decision

This week's Canadian mortgage news and tips from expert David Larock.

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Do You Own Your Backyard? Are You Sure?

Pawel Kosicki and Megan Munro found they didn’t, and a judge ruled an individual can’t acquire ownership by encroaching on public land, says Bob Aaron.

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The Canadian Economy Is Topping Out. Mortgage Rates Are Too.

This week's Canadian mortgage news and tips from expert David Larock.

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How Should We Really Track Our Housing Needs & Results?

This week on the Move Smartly show - why aren't the 'big' numbers in housing as well known as other economic figures we follow religiously like GDP and inflation targets?

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Ontario’s Broken Housing Plan

When a government fails to do the hard work of planning and investing the necessary capital required for such a big undertaking, it should be no surprise that the political...

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Cooling Inflation Data Are Good News for Canadian Mortgage Rates

This week's Canadian mortgage news and tips from expert David Larock.

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Was it Worth it? Neighbours Spend Big Bucks in Dispute Over Tiny Piece of Land

Does it make sense for neighbours to spend tens of thousands of dollars on legal fees over what a judge described as an insignificant piece of disputed land along the shared...

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GTA Areas With The Biggest Drop in Home Sales

A closer look at the data reveals that the market for low-rise houses and condos is performing unevenly across the Greater Toronto Area’s (GTA) five regions. 

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Olivia Wants Ottawa and Queen's Park to Pay for Toronto Housing - Here's Why I'm Here for It.

Toronto, the biggest city in one of the fastest growing countries in the world, is facing an unprecedented housing availability and affordability crisis. Will the federal and...

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More Good News for Canadian Fixed Mortgage Rates

This week's Canadian mortgage news and tips from expert David Larock.

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High Interest Rates Weigh Down Home Sales - November 2023 Market Update

The current high interest rate cycle, which started in 2022, has continued to push home sales in the Greater Toronto Area to historic low levels. 

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Things Are Going to Be Tough for Canada’s Economy: An Interview with Robert Kavcic

An expert look at Canada’s economy to get some insight into how the broader macroeconomic trends might impact Canada’s housing market in the months ahead.

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Canadian Fixed Mortgage Rates Fell (But by Less Than Expected)

This week's Canadian mortgage news and tips from expert David Larock.

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Pre-Con Fires + Agent Commissions Under Fire — Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate Roundtable - Nov 2023

It’s darker out there in more ways than one — we try to weather it together with our monthly Toronto-Vancouver real estate roundtable for November with Urmi, Steve and John.

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Is Joint Ownership Good or Bad for Estate Planning?

Case shows using joint ownership as an estate planning tool to avoid the payment of probate when one owner dies is risky, writes Bob Aaron.

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Should I Lower the Price on My Condo? + The Family Home Stretch — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A - Oct 2023

In our monthly consumer Q&A, ‘‘The Situation’, Urmi asks and John responds to the detailed questions that real estate consumers across the GTA have sent in. 

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Canadian Fixed Mortgage Rates Are (Finally) Falling

This week's Canadian mortgage news and tips.

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Are Cities Responsible for Canada's Housing Crisis?

For many at the federal level, it's convenient to blame cities for "gate-keeping" and "NIMBY" policies that prevent more housing from being built - is this fair?

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Would You Live in a House Where There’s Been a Murder?

When the value of a house is affected by a history of murder, suicide, ghosts, or hauntings, it is generally referred to as stigmatized, explains Bob Aaron.

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Mortgage Rate Update: What to Make of the Bank of Canada’s Hawkish Hold

This week's Canadian mortgage news and tips.

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Are Toronto Real Estate Investors Rushing to Sell?

Anecdotal evidence suggests that investors are starting to look to deleverage properties in the Toronto are - does the data suggest this is part of a larger trend?

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Why Fixed vs. Variable is Getting More Interesting + Five Key Mortgage Updates

This week in Canadian mortgage news and tips.

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High Interest Rate Blues + Supply Side Grift + More — Toronto & Vancouver Roundtable Oct 2023

We’re back with our October monthly Toronto-Vancouver real estate roundtable with Urmi, Steve and John! 

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As Toronto Housing Market Cools, Inventory Builds - October 2023 Market Update

We are finally starting to see some inventory build up as listings start to increase while sales slow heading into the fall market.

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Why Higher Fixed Mortgage Rates Make Additional Policy-Rate Hikes Less Likely

Weekly update on the latest in Canadian mortgage news and numbers.

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Are Cities Responsible for Canada’s Housing Crisis?

A detailed look at the political, policy and academic arguments that blame cities for our housing affordability crisis to assess how valid they are.
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Thoughts on Diverging US/CDN Economic Momentum, the Mortgage Stress Test, and an Unfair Policy Trapping Many Mortgage Borrowers

We received the latest GDP data for both Canada and the US last week, and today’s post will start with my take on how it will likely impact our mortgage rates over the near term.

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Why Isn’t My Home Selling? + Should I Invest Now? + More — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A - Sept 2023

In our September episode of the consumer Q&A, ‘‘The Situation’, Urmi asks John to respond to the detailed questions that real estate consumers across the GTA are asking right now.

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Thoughts on Inflation, Bond Yields, Rate-Hike Prospects, and Where Canadian Mortgage Rates Are Headed

There was a lot of mortgage-related news last week.

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US Inflation Rises Ahead of the Federal Reserve’s Meeting This Week

What this week's news means for Canadian mortgage borrowers.

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$3 Million Won’t Get You a Mansion in Toronto (and Not Even a Nice Home in West Vancouver ) — Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate Roundtable September 2023

School’s back and it’s time for our monthly Toronto-Vancouver real estate roundtable for September with Urmi, Steve and John!

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Toronto Area Listings Increasing + A Precarious Fall Market - September 2023 Market Update

Toronto’s housing market continued to cool as we moved towards the end of the summer season. 

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Has the Bank of Canada’s Policy Rate Peaked?

The Bank of Canada (BoC) held its policy rate steady last week. That means our variable mortgage and home-equity line-of-credit rates will remain at their current levels, at least...

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Toronto Rents Have Risen 5x Faster Than Historical Trends

It's always felt hard to be a renter in Toronto - but a dig into the numbers shows the problem has gotten much worse.

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What is a Home Buyer Rebate?

It's something that many agents don't like to discuss - here's why.

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Why Another Bank of Canada Rate Hike Is Still Possible

Last week we learned that our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contracted by 0.2% in the second quarter on an annualized basis, well below both the consensus forecast of +1.2% and the...

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Canadian Inflation Rises - Will Mortgage Rates Follow?

Last week Statistics Canada confirmed that our headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased from 2.8% to 3.3% in July (annualized).

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The Biggest Risks You Should be Aware of When Working with a Buyer's Agent

With over 60,000 real estate agents working in Toronto, how can you ensure your agent is working properly to best represent your interests?

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An Emoji Can’t Serve As A Signature On A Home Sale Surely, Can It?

Anyone these days can generate an emoji, but without ample evidence to confirm the source, its use is neither efficient, nor reliable, says Bob Aaron.

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US Inflation Rises, and Canadian Inflation Is About to Follow

Your Weekly Canadian Mortgage Update

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The Bull vs Bear Debate for Canadian Real Estate + Trudeau Says Housing Not a Primary Responsibility – Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate Roundtable - August 2023

It's time for our August monthly roundtable — once again, Urmi talks to Steve in Vancouver and John in Toronto about the latest in real estate news and trends.

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Average Home Prices Trending Down in Toronto Area - Toronto Area Real Estate Market Update - August 2023

A closer look at weekly, rather than monthly numbers, reflects the same market slowdown being seen on-the-ground in the Toronto area real estate market.

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Why Today’s Job Losses Won’t Change the Bank of Canada’s Mind

Last week Statistics Canada confirmed that our economy shed approximately 6,000 jobs in July, a far cry from the 20,000 increase that the consensus was anticipating.

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Why a Decent Income is No Longer Enough to Buy a Home in Canada

Just when and why a decent income stopped being enough to buy a home in the Toronto area - and just what is our ever expensive market running on instead?

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Canada’s Population is Booming While Housing ‘Starts’ Tumble

Canada’s population grew by just over 1.2 million people during the second quarter of 2023. 

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How Renters Are Paying the Highest Price for Canada’s Housing Crisis

In our new feature, "Move Smartly Ideas", I talk to Urmi about what I'm reading, writing and talking about right now. 

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Why Canadian Inflation Is About to Move Higher

Weekly Interest Rate Update

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The Bank of Canada Tightens Again

The Bank of Canada (BoC) hiked its policy rate by another 0.25% last Wednesday, as widely expected. That means our variable mortgage rates will increase by the same amount in...

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Sellers See Fewer Bidding Wars as Market Cools - Toronto Area Real Estate Market Update - July 2023

A closer look at weekly, rather than monthly numbers, reflects the same market slowdown being seen on-the-ground in the Toronto area real estate market.

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Start of a Listing Surge? + Canada’s New Population High Inflames Housing Crisis — Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate Roundtable July 2023

It's time for our July monthly roundtable — once again, Urmi talks to Steve in Vancouver and John in Toronto!

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Mortgage Advice: The Best of Today’s (Lousy) Mortgage-Rate Options?

Fixed mortgage rates rose again last week, and the Bank of Canada (BoC) is expected to hike its policy rate by another 0.25% when it meets this Wednesday.

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Canadian Mortgage Rate Update: A Busy Week for New Economic Data

Last week included several data releases that were noteworthy for anyone keeping an eye on Canadian mortgage rates.

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Update: Should You Choose a Fixed- or Variable-Rate Mortgage?

If you’re in the market for a mortgage today, you may be experiencing some sticker shock now that mortgage rates have risen to their highest levels in about twenty years.

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Five Key Mortgage-Rate Related Thoughts

All Canadian mortgage rates moved higher last week.

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How Will an Unexpected Interest Rate Hike Impact Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate? + Who is Investing in Canadian Real Estate?  — June Roundtable

It’s that time again - our June roundtable with Steve in Vancouver and John in Toronto is live!

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The Housing Market Is Still Hot But Likely to Cool - Toronto Area Real Estate Market Update - June 2023

This was the first month since last June that saw house prices increase year-over-year.

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Should Condo Renters Facing Ever Higher Costs Just Do What it Takes to Buy? + Is it the Right Time to Downsize? — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A

In our regular Move Smartly feature, "The Situation," lead contributor John Pasalis responds to the questions that real estate consumers are asking right now.

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The Reinvigorated Real-Estate Sector Compelled the Bank of Canada to Hike

Last week the Bank of Canada (BoC) surprised financial markets by raising its policy rate by another 0.25%. 

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Will the Bank of Canada Hike This Week?

Will the Bank of Canada hike its policy rate when it meets this Wednesday?

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What You Need to Know About Building a Fourplex in Toronto: An Interview with Sean Galbraith

Toronto City Council has just voted turn over the ban on fourplexes in the city's so called "yellow zone" of single family homes - so what does it all mean?

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The Start of (Yet Another) Bull Run in Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate? + Your Audience Questions — May Roundtable

It’s May roundtable time with Steve in Vancouver and John in Toronto!

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Noise About Pickleball Rises in Communities Across the Country

Justice of the peace found noise caused by pickleball was unreasonable and disturbed inhabitants and that this breached town bylaws.

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Canadian Inflation Re-accelerates and Mortgage Rates Rise

The Canadian Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 4.4% on a year-over-year basis in April, up from 4.3% in March.

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In Ontario, It Should Be Illegal to Insist House-Buyers Be of a Particular Nationality

This example shows Ontario’s laws must ensure an end to discrimination in housing throughout the province.

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Why I’m Still Not Buying the Bond Market’s Rate Cut Bets

The US Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 4.9% on a year-over-year (YoY) basis in April, and by 0.4% on a month-over-month (MoM) basis.

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Zoning Battles in Toronto and Ontario — Why We Need to Build Up Not Out: An Interview with Phil Pothen

Right now, Toronto is seeing a massive shift in housing zoning policies both at the municipal and provincial level.

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Condo Board Penalized For Not Acting Reasonably on Owner’s Reno Request

It failed to consider these fairly, take his concerns seriously, and provide timely responses and decisions during the process.

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Limited Listing Supply Pushes House Prices Up - Toronto Area Real Estate Market Update - May 2023

A 20-year low in the number of homes being listed for sale is causing Toronto area house prices to rise again, despite today's high interest rates.

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What the US Fed’s Pause Will Mean for Canadian Mortgage Rates

Last week the US Federal Reserve joined the Bank of Canada (BoC) when it shifted to the talk-tough-and-do-nothing phase of its monetary-policy cycle.

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Should Canadians Reconsider a Variable-Rate Mortgage?

Last week Statistics Canada confirmed that our GDP increased by 0.1% in February on a month-over-month basis (MoM).

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Recent Buyers Face Problems Due to Rapid Price Drops — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A

In our regular Move Smartly feature, "The Situation," lead contributor John Pasalis responds to the questions that real estate consumers are asking right now.

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Beware of Buying Homes from Builders Who Don’t Own the Land

It’s time to change law to protect consumers who buy pre-construction homes from builders who do not own the land they are built on.

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Is the Bank of Canada Painting Itself into a Corner?

Last week, Statistics Canada confirmed that our Consumer Price Index (CPI) dropped to 4.3% in March on a year-over-year basis, down from 5.2% in February and well below the peak...

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When Did Toronto’s Housing Unaffordability Crisis Start?

Politicians and many media outlets appear to be confused about when home prices began spiralling out of control.

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The Bank of Canada Pushes Back on Bond-Market Expectations

The Bank of Canada (BoC) held its policy rate steady last week, and that was welcome news for variable-rate borrowers who have watched their rates increase by 4.25% over the past...

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Small But Busy Spring Market + Interest Rate Rollercoaster + Supply Hope? — April 2023 Roundtable

It’s finally April, and once again, time for our Toronto and Vancouver real estate roundtable!

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Toronto House Prices Are Trending Up Again - Toronto Area Real Estate Market Update - April 2023

Amidst continuing historically low levels of home sales, the competition for houses is surprisingly intense in Greater Toronto Area (GTA) as demand outpaces listings.

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Three Recent Posts to Get You Ready for the next Bank of Canada Meeting

All eyes will be on the Bank of Canada (BoC) when it meets this Wednesday.

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How Banks Are Making This Housing Market Downturn Different: An Interview with Robert Kavcic

Why Canadian banks are working with buyers to lower payments by extending amortization periods and more.

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Will Strong GDP Growth Bring Higher Mortgage Rates?

In today’s upside-down world, good news for our economy is bad news for our mortgage rates because it increases the likelihood that the Bank of Canada (BoC) will either hike its...

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Why Are Some Mortgage Rates Going Down - An Interview with Rob McLister

A mortgage specialist helps us better understand the headlines that tell us where rates are now - and where rates might be going next.

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More Near-Term Rate Hikes Are off the Table (But So Are Rate Cuts)

When central bankers cranked up their policy rates to combat runaway inflation, they knew that it would create economic pain.

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How Much is a Driveway Dispute Worth, Really? Think Twice Before You Sue!

“Why would anyone pursue seemingly hopeless litigation over the right of way to a mutual driveway?”

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Where’s My Rate Drop?

The inflation debate has suddenly taken a backseat to concerns about systemic financial risk in both the US and Europe.

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Bull Trap Risk + Where Are The Listings + Do We Blame Canada Housing Policy Too Much? — March 2023 Roundtable

It’s March Madness time and also time for another Toronto-Van City Real Estate Roundtable with Urmi, John and Steve!

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What Do Bank Crashes Mean for Canadian Mortgages & More - Live Toronto Market Update - March 2023

Watch my recent live market update chat where I share my report highlights and answer your questions on our Move Smartly YouTube channel.

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Low Supply Heats Up Activity, Bidding Wars Across GTA - Toronto Area Real Estate Market Update - March 2023

In spite of historically low sales levels and high interest rates, the demand bottleneck typical of the first quarter is making its annual appearance.

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Are Some Big Risks to Toronto Home Prices Being Overlooked? — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A

This month, I respond to some of the bigger questions consumers and viewers are asking right now.

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Five Key Updates for Canadian Mortgage Rates

Last week was a busy one for anyone keeping an eye on Canadian mortgage rates.

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Are Local Investors the Cause of High Home Prices?

New statistics show high levels of local investor investment in Ontario's housing market.

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Legal Risks Many Home Buyers and Sellers Aren't Aware Of: An Interview with Sam and Evan Presvelos

Real-life tips from a Toronto legal firm that represents many parties in home buying and selling transactions that run into issues.

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Finally Some Good News for Canadian Variable-Rate Mortgage Borrowers

Let’s start with this week’s most welcome news.

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Inflation Falls, But Bond Yields Rise Anyway

Last week Statistics Canada confirmed that our Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell from 6.3% in December to 5.9% in January on a year-over-year (YoY) basis.

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The End of the ‘Forever’ Family Home?, More Pre-Con Buyer Worries, Zoning Problems and More — ‘The Situation’ Consumer Q&A

I respond to another round of consumers experiencing challenging real estate situations and decisions across the Toronto area right now.

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Tight Inventory Levels Up Only Slightly - Toronto Real Estate Market Update - Feb 2023

Toronto area sales levels continue to hit historical lows, but low listing levels keep prices flat.

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Canadian Hiring Surge Undermines Rate-Cut Bets

Last week we learned the Canadian economy added an estimated 150,000 new jobs in January, ten times higher than the consensus estimate of 15,000.

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What the Data Says About Canada’s Housing Market Now & Next: An Interview with Ben Rabidoux

A data specialist helps us better understand the many factors that tell us where the market is now - and might be going next.

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Was the US Federal Reserve’s Most Recent Hike Really That Dovish?

The US Federal Reserve raised its policy rate by another 0.25% up to a target range of 4.50% to 4.75%.

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How Canada’s Immigration Policies are Driving Up Housing Prices

It's time to assess Canada's immigration policies honestly, for the benefit of all Canadians, new and existing.
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Why We Shouldn’t Over-React to the Bank of Canada’s Rate-Hike Pause

The Bank of Canada (BoC) hiked by another 0.25% last Wednesday. 

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Best and Worst Appreciating Neighbourhoods in the Toronto Area in 2022

During a turbulent year, these GTA neighbourhoods stood out for how well - or badly - their home prices held up. 
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Trends to Look for in Toronto’s Housing Market in 2023

While it's impossible to predict where exactly home prices will go, tracking these key factors can show us which direction is most likely.
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A Look Back at Toronto’s Housing Market in 2022

As the Bank of Canada makes a crucial rate announcement, let's review just how we got to this point.
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Will the Bank of Canada Raise Again This Week?

Most forecasters expect the Bank of Canada (BoC) to hike its policy rate by another 0.25% when it meets this Wednesday.

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Why Softer US Inflation Doesn’t Change My View on Canadian Mortgage Rates

Last week we received the latest US inflation data, for December, and the results came in at or a little below consensus forecasts.

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After a Wild Drop, GTA Home Prices Remain in Uneasy Hold - January 2023 Market Update

2022 home prices are up year-over-year, but this obscures a tumultuous year in which prices hit new highs at the start, fell sharply in the middle, and have stayed flat since.

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The Great Reset, Condo Vultures, Cold Feet and More — January 2023 Roundtable

 New Year, New Roundtable! Urmi talks to John and Steve about what we can expect to see as Canada faces an uncertain housing market in 2023.

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Mortgage-Rate Forecast and Predictions for 2023

Expect more volatility over the next 12 months, where good news equals bad news, and both pivots - and crashes - aren't likely. 

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What is Toronto’s Vacant Home Tax and What Does it Mean for Owners, Buyers & Sellers?

All owners of residential property in the City of Toronto must file an online declaration of the occupancy status of their property before February 2, 2023.

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A Closer Look at Toronto’s Rental Market - Data Dive

Aside from a small dip during Covid, Toronto rents are ever higher for both condos and houses - as buying becomes more out of reach for many.

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Mortgage Woes, Pre-Con Bets and More - 'The Situation' GTA Real Estate Consumer Q&A

In our monthly feature, home owners and would be buyers and sellers ask questions about the complex real estate situations they are facing across the GTA.

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Financial Stress is Building for Canadians

Why this holiday season is unprecedented for reasons beyond this Christmas weekend's 'weather bomb.'

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Canada Bans Foreign Buyers - Will It Matter Now?

After long denying the role that foreign buyers play in Canada's housing market, the federal government and authorities are not targeting the real problem.

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2022: The End of the Free Money Era

What a long, strange trip 2022 has been.

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Canada Faces Real Estate ‘Grind’ + A Bank Governor Apologies — December Roundtable

As we head to the end of 2022, Urmi talks to John and Steve about top real estate stories in Canada & world right now - Canadians facing financial stress as interest rates rise...

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Prices Have Stabilized - for Now - Amidst 20-Year Sales Lows - December Market 2022 Report

Most recent market numbers from November show that prices in the Toronto area market are plateauing - for now.

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Has the Bank of Canada’s Policy Rate Finally Peaked?

The current policy rate is now 4.25% - what's next in the new year?

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The Case for Another 0.50% Bank of Canada Rate Hike

This week, the Bank will be meeting to decide where our interest rates will go next.

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What's Your Situation? Toronto Area Home Owners Share Stress & Questions

In our new series, home owners and would be buyers and sellers share the questions - and tricky situations - they are facing across the GTA.

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Canadian Mortgage Primer: All About Trigger Rates

What you need to know - and why these rates are different from what we saw in 2008 south of the border.

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Canadian Inflation Stopped Cooling Last Month

But it make take some time before inflation starts dropping.

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November 2022 Market Update: 20 Year Lows in Sales - and Listings - Are Keeping Prices Flat

Latest numbers continue to show a stalemate - for now. 

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Champagne Corks Pop in Response to Latest US Inflation Data

Why the celebration is likely premature - and what Canadian mortgage borrowers should do now.

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Canada Tops The Scary Housing List - November Roundtable

In our monthly discussion, Urmi talks to John and Steve about top real estate stories in Canada & world right now - a global housing slump, Canada specific risks and where will...

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The Fed Hiked and Financial Markets Shuddered

Last week was an eventful one for anyone keeping an eye on Canadian mortgage rates.

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The Bank of Canada Hikes by Less Than Expected

Why this isn't the pivot that some have been anticipating.

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Why the Bank of Canada is About to Hike by Another 0.75%

Short-term options for mortgage borrowers do not look enticing - when might things begin to change?

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The Good, the Bad and the Ugly for Toronto Real Estate

The path forward is far from certain - I take a close look at the data to see what might happen next.

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What the US Inflation Surprise Means for Canadian Mortgage Rates

US and Canadian bond yields continued their seemingly inexorable rise last week.

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October 2022 Market Update: New Listings Hit a 20-Year Low in Toronto

September market numbers are out - and I review how they stack up against on the ground realities now.

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Five Mortgage-Rate Thoughts from Last Week

I hope that you all enjoyed a happy Thanksgiving weekend.

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High Interest Rates Alone Are Not Why Toronto Home Prices Are Down

What economic research says about how real estate prices tend to move when the market changes suddenly.

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Why Central Bankers Must Now Let the Fires Burn

And what it means for Canadian mortgage holders.

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When Pre-Construction Home Buyers Face Builder Demands for More Money

Construction problems such as foreseen costs, and shortages of labour and materials, are issues for builders — not purchasers — to resolve.

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The US Fed Raises and Warns It Isn’t Done Yet

And why Canada's rate hiking cycle may not last as long.

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Why Toronto Real Estate Investors Aren’t Rushing to Sell Yet

Rising rents are keeping investors optimistic - for now.

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Why Are So Few Homes Available For Sale in Toronto?

With demand for real estate falling off dramatically, why aren't we seeing the build-up of homes on the market we'd expect?

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Expect Some Tough Love from the US Federal Reserve This Week

Why I believe the US Federal Reserve will surprise markets with more-hawkish-than-expected policy-rate language this week.

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September 2022 Market Update: Toronto Home Prices Level Off Due to Low Inventory

August market numbers are out - and I review how they stack up against on the ground realities now.

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Five Mortgage-Related Thoughts on the Bank of Canada’s Latest Rate Hike

What's happening now and what is likely to happen next.

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More Options for First-Time Buyers Looking for a Family Home

The number of homes listed under the critical $1 million mark increases as the Toronto area real estate market continues to slow down.

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Sept Real Estate Round Table: Toronto & Vancouver Markets Now

This month, Urmi, Steve and John discuss the ongoing market slowdown, next Bank of Canada rate hike and look back to the last high-rate markets of 1981 and 1990 in Canada.

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The Bank of Canada’s Rate-Hike Impacts Are Intensifying

All eyes will be on the Bank of Canada (BoC) when it meets this week.

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These GTA Cities Are Seeing the Biggest Drop in House Prices

Areas that rose the highest during the Covid-boom are falling the most.

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It Can Cost More to Go After Your Buyer Deposit in Court When Deal Fails

Home buyers and sellers can avoid expensive legal judgments with more straightforward options to resolve a contract dispute.

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City of Toronto House Prices Fall to Pre-Covid Levels

Toronto is the first municipality in the GTA to return to pre-pandemic prices.

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Why the Bank of Canada and the Bond Market Are Both Half Right (and Half Wrong)

And why I have decided to alter my near-term rate forecast.

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New Provincial Rules Can’t Stop Pricey Surprise Fees for New Homebuyers

Additional and high closing fees should not be billed to buyers of new builds in the final hours before their deals close.

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August 2022 Market Update: Toronto Area House Prices Down YOY for First Time Since Peak

Average house price down to $1,285,222 in July, down 1% over last year, while average condo prices slid to $738,930, still 7% up over last year.

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How to Adjust Your Home Selling Strategy When Prices Are Falling

In this latest video in a special series, lead contributor, John Pasalis of Realosophy Realty, explains what you need to do to secure a better outcome in an uncertain time.

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Aug 2022 Real Estate Round Table: Toronto & Vancouver Markets Now

Each month, Move Smartly editor, Urmi Desai, sits down with housing analysts & realtors Steve Saretsky in Vancouver and lead contributor John Pasalis in Toronto.

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How to Adjust Your Home Buying Strategy When Prices Are Falling

In the fourth of a special series, lead contributor, John Pasalis of Realosophy Realty, explains how buyers need to be thinking when making offers in a falling Toronto area market.

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How the Latest Employment Data Will Impact Our Mortgage Rates

Here is my take on how US and Canadian employment momentum (or the lack thereof) will impact Canadian mortgage rates.

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Should I Buy While Toronto Homes Prices Are Falling?

It's a question a lot of people are asking me - here's what buyers are really asking and how I respond.

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Inflation, a Labour Bubble, and Another Fed Rate Hike

In today’s post I focus on three economic signposts and explain how they inform my outlook for Canadian fixed and variable mortgage rates.

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Toronto Real Estate Market Faces Economic Conditions Not Seen Since 90s

Why things are different from the last time we saw a market downturn in 2017.

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Five Thoughts on the Bank of Canada’s Jumbo Rate Hike

Here are five key observations relating to last week’s jumbo-sized Bank of Canada rate hike.

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July 2022 Market Update: Toronto Area House & Condo Prices Fall Again

Latest market numbers show that Toronto's house and condo prices falling up to 20% from peaks earlier this year though staying slightly up year-over-year.

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The Bank of Canada Is About to Hike Again

Why a 0.50% increase by the Bank of Canada is a better option than the 0.75% hike the consensus expects this Wednesday.

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New Mortgage-Rule Changes: HELOCs & Reverse Mortgages

Authorities try to reduce the risk of mortgage borrower distress given potential home price drops - but fail to address one rising risk.

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Toronto's Suburban Condo Market Also Slows Down (Faster Than The City)

Since February 2022, condo sales and prices are declining far more rapidly in the suburbs than in the City of Toronto. 

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Gas Prices Are Going Nuts (In Case You Hadn’t Noticed)

A detailed look at last month's inflation data and the implications for Canadian mortgage rates.

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Toronto Real Estate Sales Hit 20-Year Low (Almost)

We haven't seen numbers like this since the height of the onset of Covid-19 pandemic.

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Straight Talk From Our Central Bankers

Let’s try something different this week.

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June 2022 Market Update: Toronto Real Estate Sales Hit Historic Low

Early signs of a slowdown on-the-ground now strongly showing in the latest market numbers.

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Inflation, Jobs, and Mortgage Rates

A contrarian case for inflation and interest rates falling back more quickly than most forecasts predict.

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How to Sell Your Home in a Slowing Market

How you need to adjust your strategy in a suddenly changing market.

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What is Happening with Inflation and Mortgage Rates?

Here's a quick recap to ensure you are on top of the latest news you need to know.

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Toronto Suburban Houses Lose Relative Value

Some areas that saw the fastest price gains during the pandemic are now coming down.

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Good and Bad News About Taxes on the Resale of Pre-Con Properties

A clarification on the amount of HST to be applied to assignment sales after a confusing budget announcement.

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Why Are Some Toronto Area Home Prices Dropping So Quickly?

How consumer - and agent - anxiety is playing a role.

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Inflation on the Brain

The Bank of Canada (BoC) has faced plenty of criticism of late. What does this mean for fixed and variable mortgage rates going forward?

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It's Spring Market Time in Toronto - Why Are Sales Falling?

Over the last decade in the Toronto area, this increase has averaged 8% per year - but not this year. 

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US Inflation Falls in April (Sort of)

Surging prices continue to dominate the headlines, but last week’s US inflation data offered the first glimmer of hope that inflation may finally have peaked.

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May 2022 Market Update: Significant Data Changes as Market Cools

The slowdown we were first seeing on the ground over the past two months is now showing in the numbers.

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Five Thoughts on Last Week’s Mortgage-Related News

And what it means for Canadian mortgages.

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How Higher Interest Rates Will Impact Toronto Home Prices

The big news in the housing market has been surging interest rates.  

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Federal Budget May Rattle the Resale of Pre-Con Condos

How a new measure to target property speculation might disrupt the market.

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The US Fed’s Imminent Rate Hike May Cause a Surprising Market Reaction

Canadian mortgage rates have been on a tear lately.

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Fixed vs Variable: Which One Is Now the Better Bet?

Mortgage rates have surged higher of late.

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Toronto Market Update: Average Home Prices Fall Slightly From Last Month

While March 2022 housing market numbers were well above those of 2021 and 2020, there are some signs of cooling as average prices fall slightly from February.

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Five Thoughts on the Bank of Canada’s 0.50% Rate Hike

Today's post offers five key points from the Bank of Canada's latest communications surrounding its 0.50% policy-rate hike.

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How the 2022 Federal Budget Will Impact Our Real-Estate Markets

In today’s post I outline the new housing-related measures that were announced in the 2022 federal budget and offer my take on their likely impact.

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This Risky Trend in Pre-Construction Purchases is Raising Red Flags

Some buyers are hoping to 'flip' pre-con units before they have to close on - and actually pay for - them.

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How Do Canadian Home Prices Compare Globally?

The numbers show that Canada's home prices standout amongst comparable countries.

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Are Higher Fixed Mortgage Rates Here to Stay?

Today's post compares the risk of borrowing at five-year fixed rates after their recent dramatic rise to the risk that five-year variable rates will surge even higher.

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Toronto’s Suburban Housing Bubble — 1 Year Later

Observers have been worried - but have policy makers done anything to cool  prices in the past year? 

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Why Mortgage-Rate Rises Are About to Pack More Punch

Today’s post explains why the most recent round of fixed-rate mortgage hikes will impact the market in new and significant ways.

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A Property Survey Could Have Prevented These Homeowners From Ending Up In Court

What happens when a neighbour builds a garage that's partly on another neighbour’s property?

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Is Toronto's Real Estate Market Slowing Down?

What I'm seeing in early on-the-ground signs that won't show up in the data until later.

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Toronto Market Update: House Prices Up 31%, Condos 26% Over Last Year

The numbers for February continued to show a hot market.

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The War in Ukraine is a Potent Wildcard for Mortgage Rates

Russia's war on Ukraine has the potential to significantly impact the global economy, and relatedly, our mortgage rates.

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Five Thoughts on the Bank of Canada’s Rate Hike

The Bank of Canada hiked last week and the key questions now are: How fast will its policy-rate rise and how high will it ultimately go?

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Judge Finds Unwise Use of Smart Doorbell in Condominium

An Alberta court decision calls the condo neighbours’ dispute “petty and pointless,” but acknowledges it’s a point of principle.

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How the Supply Side Argument for Housing Affordability Falls Short

Why I believe a more immediate demand-side lever is being overlooked.

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The Bank of Canada Is About to Start Hiking. Now What?

I expect the BoC to hike its policy rate this Wednesday, and in today's post I offer my take on whether variable-rate borrowers should respond by locking in.

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What's Really Pushing Up Toronto's 'Irrational' Home Prices?

What is behind buyer willingness to pay 40 to 50% more per year for homes?

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Top Five Recent Posts About Mortgage Rates and Inflation

Your recent mortgage must-knows all in one place!

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Could Home Prices Fall 20% This Year?

Once again, a leading Canadian authority is sounding the alarm - are they right?

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A New Home Speculation Tax Would Harm, Not Help the Real Estate Market

Bob Aaron: "Home prices would plummet, as they did with the new levy in ’74. I vividly recall that the housing market crashed overnight."

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Why You Need to Take a Course to Buy a Home in Toronto

High prices, intense buyer competition and worries about potential market crashes makes buying a house or condo today a far more complex prospect.

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When Will US Inflation Peak?

US inflation surged higher last week and took our fixed mortgage rates along for the ride. In today's post, I explain why US inflation fear may soon peak out.

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Toronto Market Update: January House Prices Up 25% in 6 Months

Cold weather and snow storms in January did nothing to cool down Toronto’s red hot housing market. 

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Why CDN Bond Yields Surged Despite Big Job Losses

Our economy shed 200,000 jobs in January. Strangely, GoC bond yields surged higher on the same day that news was released, and today’s post explains why.

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Canada's G7-Leading Pop Growth and Housing Impact

How Canada's immigration rate affects home prices

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Could Toronto Home Prices Actually Fall Anytime Soon?

As rising interest rates and other market cooling factors arise, will home prices necessarily fall?

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What's Most Likely to Cool Toronto's Market Right Now?

A closer look at the more likely - though yet to be seen - factors.

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The Bank of Canada Will Be Live at Its Next Meeting

The BoC just confirmed that it will soon begin to raise its policy rate. The key questions for variable-rate mortgage borrowers are: How fast and by how much?

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Why This Man is Selling Off His Toronto Homes to Build in the Metaverse

New listings in a high potential area of east-end Toronto fuel an even bigger vision.

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Social Housing was Jon Harstone’s Passion

He was a successful advocate of affordable homes in Toronto. And he was part of my family.

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Best Performing Neighbourhoods in Toronto Area in 2021 for Condos

Condo buyers were pulled eastward in the search for affordability.

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Best Performing Neighbourhoods in Toronto Area in 2021 for Houses

Suburban area homes are hot in the search for affordability.

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The Latest Inflation Data Are Not as Bad as You Might Think

The bond market is now assigning about 80% odds of a BoC rate hike this Wednesday. I continue to take the other side of that bet, and the latest inflation data helps support my...

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Toronto Market Update: Looking Back at the Year That Was 2021

Record year of 119,532 home sales, surpassing the previous record of 112,288 in 2016.

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Is the Bank of Canada About to Start Raising?

There is widespread speculation that the Bank of Canada (BoC) will start to raise its policy rate at its upcoming meeting on January 26.

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Canadian Mortgage Rate Forecast for 2022

Why five-year variable rates will likely save money versus their fixed-rate equivalents in 2022 (and beyond).

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Ontario Court Supports Pre-Con Home Buyers After Deals Cancelled

A Superior Court justice blocks the resale of pre-construction homes and orders the case to arbitration.

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Can Co-Buying a Condo with This Canadian Start-Up Really Pay Off?

A deeper dig into a new pitch from 'Key'.

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Will Canadian Real Estate Finally Slow Down in 2022?

Experts discuss what's ahead and whether 2022 could bring a more balanced market. 

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Ontario Courts Say Home Buyers Must Confirm Home Size

Prospective purchasers cannot rely on a published listing when it comes to the interior size of a home.

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Is Canada in a Housing Bubble This Time?

Why a change who's behind the demand for homes makes all the difference.

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A Busy Year-End Wrap Up

Normally the news quiets down as we head into the holidays, but last week was packed with important updates for anyone keeping an eye on mortgage rates.

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Toronto Market Update: Demand Surge Outpaces New Listings in November

Colder weather has had no effect on Toronto’s red hot housing market which continued to show signs of heating up last month.

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Five BoC Rate Hikes Next Year? Don’t Think So.

The Bank of Canada held rates steady last week and also pushed back against the bond market’s bet on a more rapid rate-hike timetable.

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How to Avoid Risks When a Buyer Can't Close on a Home Purchase

When a new tax caused a sudden market downturn in the GTA in 2017, fallen through deals proven costly to home buyers and sellers.
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Why Are Young People Giving Up on Toronto?

Over 50% of Generation "Z" have given up on ever being able to afford a home in Toronto.

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Five Key Updates for Mortgage Rates Last Week

Last week had five important updates that have implications for our mortgage rates, spanning from Omicron to the latest employment and GDP data

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Are 'Regular Home Buyers' A Thing Of The Past in Toronto and Vancouver?

Why are we are seeing such a huge increase in those wanting to invest instead of live in our homes?

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Toronto’s Irrationally Exuberant Real Estate Investors

Real buyer demand has explained home prices rises recently, but is a familiar old factor now the story?

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Bond Yields Plunge in Response to New Outbreak Threat

Bond yields plunged on Friday after news of the Omicron coronavirus variant broke. 
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How Home Equipment Rentals Can Lead To Unexpected Property Liens

Always read the fine print when you rent home equipment like furnaces, A/C, HVACs and water softeners. 

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What Will Higher Interest Rates Do to Home Prices?

The Bank of Canada indicates that rate hikes are likely to come soon. What does that mean for the market?

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Inflation Rises Again, But Not the Component That Matters Most

Our Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose to its highest level in 19 years last month, but the CPI component that matters most of all still lags.

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Bats in the Bedroom Are Not the Home Seller’s Fault, Says a B.C. Court

A fair ruling or is it just downright batty? 

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Is It Time for Variable-Rate Borrowers to Lock In?

The steady drumbeat of inflation warnings have variable-rate borrowers wondering whether they should lock into a fixed rate.

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Toronto Market Update: Median Now $1.3M for Houses, $660K for Condos

The Toronto Area real estate market once again posted strong numbers in October.

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What Could Rising Interest Rates Mean For House Prices?

With interest rates rising, could Canadian housing prices finally start to cool?

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Thoughts On Fed Tapering, Job Reports and Rate-Hike Hype

Today’s post highlights what the US Fed said last week, offers my take on the latest US and CDN employment data, and explains why I think the rate-hike hype is getting to be a bit...

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Can Zoning Bring Home Prices Down?

Ontario realtors are now joining experts and activists in calling for zoning rule changes to address Toronto's housing supply problem.

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A Closer Look At Toronto’s Housing Supply Problem

A deep data dive takes us past some familiar complaints to find the real reasons our supply of homes can't meet demand.  

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Will the Bank of Canada’s Hawkish Turn Quell Inflation Fears?

A self-reinforcing cycle of higher expected inflation leading to higher actual inflation is the primary risk that central bankers now face.

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‘The Exorcist’ History of Their House Surprised, Entertained, New Owners

One spooky surprise taught these homeowners an important lesson about disclosure.

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Is Canadian Real Estate High Risk Right Now?

How seriously should we take the latest alarm from Canada's top housing authority?

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Are Variable-Rate Mortgages Too Risky?

Variable mortgage rates can seem like a scary option in these uncertain times, but are they really that risky? My answer might surprise you.

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Vacant Home Tax Survey + Multi-Property Owners The New Norm

In Toronto: Multiple-property owners are now the largest slice of homebuyers as Toronto real estate is 'insanely competitive" right now.

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Toronto & Vancouver Real Estate is 'Insanely Competitive' Right Now

Here is what these experts think you can expect for the fall market in Canada.

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The Real Issues With For Sale By Owner (FSBO) Properties

Why a recent CBC investigation into unethical behaviour by some buyer agents fails to tell the full story.

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Why Tapering Will Delay Rate-Hike Timetables

While bonds and the fixed-mortgage rates they are based on may rise, policy rate hikes - and variable rate rises - are less likely.

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Ontario Needs A Lot More Homes + Swiss Bank Sounds Canada Alarm

In Toronto: Unrealistic seller expectations cause home price jumps and Ontario needs to add more homes than it ever has before just to keep up with population growth.

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Help With Bad Tenants Is On The Way For Condo Owners

Starting in January, changes to the Condominium Act may provide owners with more help dealing with a difficult or disruptive tenant.
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Canadian Employment Surges and Bond Yields Spike Again

Here's what this may mean for our mortgage rates.

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A 'Critical Juncture' For Toronto + A Red Hot September

In Toronto: As September sees another jump in Toronto house prices, the industry calls on government to do something about supply.

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Toronto Market Update: House Prices Jump Up in Sept After Holding Steady

Average house prices jump up after months of holding steady as new listings remain historically low and average condo prices rise slightly.

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Do You Have A Licence For Your Home’s Front Yard Parking?

Buying a house with a "private drive" may not be as straightforward as you'd think in Toronto.

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What Does the Liberal's Win Really Mean for Canadian Real Estate?

The Liberals have proposed many changes to Canadian housing policy - which of these are likely to happen and what will their impacts be?

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Why Managing Inflation Today Is Such a Sticky Wicket

Will continuing inflation worries in the wake of Covid-19 lead to tightening monetary policy - and the resulting impacts on mortgage rates?

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The Fight Against Zoning Laws + CMHC Says Vulnerability Risk Is 'High'

In Toronto: The fight against NIMBYism in the city zeroes in on restrictive zoning laws and a city council decision on rooming houses. 

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Will Re-Elected Liberals Help Canada's Housing Crisis?

Our recent federal elections revealed how much Canadians are worried about housing unaffordability - but post-election, will anything change?
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The US Fed Talks Taper and Bond Yields Soar

What America's top financial body's next move may mean for Canadian mortgage rates.

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Toronto Needs More Houses + How The Liberal Minority Will Impact Housing

In Toronto: Houses are being built in Canada, just not here. Find out why, along with how September distractions - read: federal election - have distracted the market. 

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What Happens When a Home Is Damaged Before New Buyers Move In?

A Superior Court decision in August provides valuable guidance on how buyers and sellers should act when a property suffers substantial damage before closing.

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Thoughts on Inflation (and Its Impact on Mortgage Rates)

Inflation will likely be a longer-term issue for Canada - but it may not affect our interest rates immediately.

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Federal Leaders Make Final Housing Push + What It Means For Toronto

In Toronto:  What happened to house prices in this city under the leadership of Justin Trudeau and how the federal parties aim to remedy the GTA's housing problems. 

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Federal Elections 2021: Assessing the Housing Policy-Palooza

We are finally outraged about high home and rent prices enough to have Canadian politicians pledging to do something about it - will any of the proposals actually work?

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How Toronto Home Affordability Ran Away Under Justin Trudeau

A look back on how housing affordability became one of the hottest issues in today's Canada.

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Toronto Market Update: Only 4,001 Houses for Sale in Aug As Listings Drop

A 56% decline from inventory levels year-over-year as the fall market is expected to remain as competitive as it has been this summer.

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Federal Election Primer: Mortgage-Specific Proposals

Of the many measures being put forward, which proposals will actually help Canadians with housing affordability?

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'Housing Now' Stuck + Solving Climate Crisis While Building Homes

In Toronto: Where does Housing Now stand some three years later and what one central Toronto riding thinks when it comes to the election and housing. 

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The Bank of Canada’s Tough Spot

It's hard for the Bank not to acknowledge that our economy is stalling and that rates will likely need to stay put.
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Supply Hits Decade Low In GTA + Federal Housing Policies 'Not Enough'

In Toronto: The housing supply in the GTA hits its lowest level in a decade as measures in federal party platforms leave much to be desired. 

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How Gambler’s Hope Perpetuates Toronto Bidding Wars

Home buyers routinely go for stressful and inefficient plays in the strange game that is Toronto real estate - here's what to do instead.

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A Homebuyer Should Know If They — Or Their Lawyer — Will Get The Title Insurance Referral Fee

When a title insurer pays a referral fee to a lawyer for arranging a policy on a client’s property purchase, who should get the benefit of the fee — the lawyer or the client?

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The US Fed Maintains Its Slow-and-Steady Approach

 Why US authorities are going slow on winding up Covid economic responses - and how our mortgage rates will be affected.
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Condo Frenzy Rages On + T.O Housing At 'Crisis Point'

In Toronto: Don't call it a comeback, but the Condo market is on fire. We explained how it happened and why in our Move Smartly feature. 

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Will Campaign Promises to Curb Foreign Buyers Actually Bring Down Canadian Home Prices?

Ahead of our fall election, all of Canada's political parties are full of ambitious housing policy pitches.

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The Big Toronto Condo Rental Comeback

Following the pandemic-induced slowdown, the number of leased condo units has returned to a historically high level.

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The Current Case for Variable-Rate Mortgages

There is much to suggest that rates will remain low - provided borrowers can tolerate the risk.
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A Centuries-Old Law Requiring Ontario Landowners to Work on Local Roads is Coming Off the Books

Until now, Ontarians who own land could have legally been made to maintain public roads - not a job most are equipped for. 

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Housing Big On GTA Voters' Minds + Where The Federal Parties Stand

In Toronto: GTA voters have their eyes on the federal parties and their housing platforms as downtown rents rise again. 

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What Our Leaders Won't Say About Housing

As Canada heads into an election this fall, here's a closer look at two policy areas that need to be better linked to tackle housing affordability.

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US Inflation Still Hot, But Leveling Off

While North American inflationary pressures in the wake of Covid-19 are a risk - there are signs that such pressures - and the impact they may have on our mortgage rates - may be...

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Toronto Market Cooling, Competition Still High + Is WFH Ending?

In Toronto: Cooling market still remains competitive as new house listings plummet and downtown rental demand rebounds.

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Toronto Market Update: Cooling But Still Competitive As New House Listings Down 37%

July's market numbers show that new listing supply for houses is falling faster than for condos.

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Employment Growth Surges, But So Do US Infection Rates

Why Canada and US vaccination rates may impact our economic recoveries - and our mortgage rates - more than job reports normally do.
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Condo Comeback Here To Stay + Priced Out Millennials Leave Cities

In Toronto: While home sales might have dropped, prices roses again in July and the condo market regains its footing.

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Are Investors to Blame for High House Prices?

How differing beliefs about the housing market between buyers and investors leads to very different market outcomes.

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New September Holiday Will Affect Purchase and Sale Closing Dates

If you are buying a selling a home, avoid scheduling your closing date on September 30.

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Thoughts on Last Week’s US Federal Reserve Meeting

Why it is unlikely that the the Bank of Canada will raise the rates that affect our mortgages ahead of its US counterpart.

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Ontario Place Plans Feature Uncertain Timeline + Toronto Gets $132M For Housing

In Toronto: New plans for Ontario place, some homeowners under 35 are property rich, and the city gets $132M from the feds for housing. 

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A Closer Look at the GTA's Cooling Market

Signs that the market is still moving quickly, but not as out-of-control as it was months ago.

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Mortgage-Rate Primer: Five Key Recent Posts

Here's the latest on news and developments  that may impact Canadian mortgage rates. 

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What Expensive Housing Really Costs Toronto + Why Are US 'Blue' Cities So Unaffordable?

In Toronto: As real estate market slows, sellers are readjusting expectations and a new study shows how much expensive GTA housing costs our overall economy.

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My Take on the Bank of Canada’s Latest Forecasts

How the Bank's thinking may impact our mortgage rates. 
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Toronto Market Report: Average GTA House Price Stays At $1.3M Since Feb

The Toronto area market is still competitive and favouring sellers - but things are cooling down.

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Toronto Slowdown Hits 3rd Month + Why is Chicago Housing Cheaper?

In Toronto: A summer sales slowdown continues into its third month, why is TO so expensive relative to Chicago and Toronto punts rooming house decision. 

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Does Toronto Have a Supply or Demand Problem?

There are always some that will perennially argue that a lack of supply is the only problem behind high home prices in Toronto - but it's not that simple.

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What Trigger Could Make Toronto Area Home Prices Fall?

When thinking about what might trigger a decline in home prices, there are generally two broad categories — a fundamental trigger and a behavioural trigger.

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What it will take for Toronto and Vancouver prices to fall?

Realosophy Realty's John Pasalis and Oakwyn Realty's Steve Saretsky join Jessy Bains from Yahoo Finance to discuss what is preventing home prices from decreasing in Toronto...
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Should You Buy a Home in Toronto's Overheated Market Today?

Is it financially safe and worth making so many other sacrifices - like a long commute or living on a busy street - to get into the Toronto area housing market right now?

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Canadian Employment Surges, But Bond Yields Don’t

The numbers suggest an economic recovery is underway, will higher mortgage rates follow?

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Where Can You Buy a House in the Toronto Area for 700K?

In the GTA's overheated market, even first-time buyers with good incomes are finding it nearly impossible to afford a home without long commutes to the city.

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Why the US Employment Data Are Key for Canadian Mortgage Rates

A key factor to watch will be the cost of worker wages which have risen as the economy re-opens.

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Five-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Are Back at a Crossroads

Bond yields are moving up, but trends, from US in particular, will also impact where Canadian fixed mortgage rates go.
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Toronto Area Market Cools & Confuses + Hamilton Joins 'Unaffordable' List

In Toronto: A confusing time for buyers as the market suddenly cools...for most homes.

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How Will Canadian Mortgage Rates Be Impacted by New US Rate Timetable?

The US Federal Reserve has moved up its projected increases up from 2023 to 2024 as debate over inflationary pressures continues.

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The 'Financialization’ of Housing Hits Canada + Demand Lessens In T.O

In Toronto: The big Realosophy monthly report is out, which indicates a downward trend in sales from last March's peak. 

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Toronto Market Report: May Sales Up YOY But Down from March Peak

House sales of 7,825 in May are up 157% over last year - but this is due to the anomalies of the COVID-19 lockdown last year - and sales volumes have been trending down since...

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Is it Possible That Canadian Real Estate Prices Have Hit Their Peak?

Realosophy Realty's John Pasalis and Oakwyn Realty's Steve Saretsky join Jessy Bains from Yahoo Finance to discuss at whether the real estate market can get any hotter or if...
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Five Observations About the Bank of Canada’s Latest Policy Statement

The Bank of Canada (BoC) held a steady course at its meeting last week, but where will mortgage rates go from here?

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No Housing Pullback In Sight + Home Ownership 'Distant Dream' For Many

In Toronto: Don't expect a pullback in the housing market anytime soon as sellers are poised for a post-COVID-19 blitz.

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Another year without a pullback in the housing market - What does it mean?

Will a pullback in the market lead to lower average home prices in the coming months or will prices stay high throughout 2021? What would it take to bring down the average cost of...

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Why Would a Real Estate Brokerage Warn About a Housing Bubble?

Why only reporting upbeat and positive information is the domain of old school real estate brokerages.

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The US and Canadian Employment Data Disappoint (Again)

Latest economic data suggests Canadian mortgage rates will hold steady.

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Toronto Home Sales Slow in Lockdown, But Prices Ever Higher + Condo FOMO

In Toronto: Prices ever higher, sales slow down during lockdown, and confessions from those couldn't  - and wouldn't - buy in a home Toronto now.

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Fixed or Variable Mortgage? Let the Current Inflation Debate Be Your Guide

With even experts mixed on where inflation will go, mortgage holders should dig into the debate to decide for themselves.

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$1 Dollar Listings Hit Toronto + Higher Property Taxes to Cool Home Prices?

In Toronto: Clever billboard spotlights Toronto's out-of-reach home prices and a dubious new listing tactic.

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Is Investor Demand for Condos Already Up Again?

As agents suggest that demand from investors for Toronto condos has likely exceeded pre-pandemic levels, we dig into the numbers to see.

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The Mortgage Stress-Test Rate Increases to 5.25% On June 1st

Out catching rays? Here's a quick catch-up on key news that relates to your mortgage.

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Toronto Tops Unaffordable Rankings + BoC Warns Price Spike 'Not Normal'

In Toronto: The city once again ranks as one of the least affordable cities in North America + How can we tackle unaffordability? 

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US Inflation Spikes to Its Highest Level in More Than a Decade

The inflation bogeyman has arrived - but does that mean higher mortgage rates?

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Buyers Exiting Toronto's House Market + Canada's Cost Of Living Crisis

In Toronto: Some buyers exit the market after an exhausting winter as the market for houses shows signs of cooling. 

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Toronto Market Report: 73% of Homes Sell Over Asking - But Signs of Cooling in April

The most important trend of note now is the start of a gradual cooling down in the market for houses across the Greater Toronto Area.

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Disappointing Canada Employment Data Portends Less Inflation (and Lower Mortgage Rates)

Lower Canada jobs numbers could be attributed to our continued lockdowns - but why is the US jobs recovery also lagging amidst high vaccination rates?

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Detatched Home Market Cools + CMHC forsees 14% price increase

In Toronto: The detached home market is cooling but the condo sales slump appears to be over with sales reaching pre-pandemic levels. 

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Court Lets Home Sellers Keep $20K Buyer Deposit After Size Dispute

Can a buyer terminate a transaction and get their deposit back if the published listing significantly overstates the size of a house?

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Why the Bank of Canada Won’t Hike Before the US Fed

In spite of the BoC's most recent statement signalling earlier rate hikes, variable rate mortgage borrowers may not want to lock in just yet.

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What $716K Gets You Across Canada + Home Buyer Complaints on Rise

In Toronto: In Toronto and Vancouver many own more than one home + homebuyer complaints on the rise.

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Interest Rate Update: The Bank of Canada Blinks

Is the Bank of Canada shifting away from rates staying ultra low - and should mortgage borrowers lock in now?

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Condo Market Springs Back + Federal Government Banks On Supply

In Toronto: The condo market sales spring back to life while vacancies remain high and is the exodus from the core over?

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When Quick Home Flipping Gets the CRA's Attention

Canadians who buy, renovate and sell homes quickly use the principal residence gain tax exemption to enhance their profits - but there may be limits.

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How Does the Canada Federal Budget Impact Home Buyers & Sellers?

While the federal budget won't make homes more affordable in Canada, average buyers and sellers won't be impacted by policy-induced market shocks either.

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An Important Week Ahead for Canadian Mortgage Rates (and Real Estate)

These are tumultuous times for both Canadian mortgage rates and real estate.

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What Should the Government Do About Canada's Overheating Real Estate Market?

Ahead of this Monday's Federal Budget, John Pasalis shares his views on what our politicians should do to make Canadian homes more affordable.

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All Eyes On Federal Liberal Budget + Toronto Family Home Dream Dead?

In Toronto: All eyes are on potential housing market measures in Canadian federal government's budget on Monday, in a year in which the Toronto family home dream appears to have...

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Toronto Market Report: Highest Number of Sales Pushes Average Home Price to $1.1M in March

With 79% of houses and 63% of condos selling over the asking price in a pandemic no less, average home buyers are stressed - and confused.

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The Stress-Test Rate Used for Uninsured Mortgages Is About to Rise

Canada banking regulator tries to cool rising house prices as of June 1st - but are they taking the right approach? 

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Federal Liberal Government Admits Our Real Estate Market Works For Foreigners Not Canadians

A frank admission acknowledges what many have been saying - but does the government really care?

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Toronto Average Home Price Rockets to $1.1M + Officials Try to Cool Market

In Toronto: Amidst a pandemic, Toronto home sales and prices continue to rocket - and this time, suburbs and outburbs are part of the ride.

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What Can Be Done About Rising House Prices?

It's easy to blame interest rates for Canada's current housing unaffordability, but housing policy makers could do more amidst a pandemic-economic crisis.

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Toronto Condo Market Hot Again + Housing Debt Alarms Bank of Canada

In Toronto: Condo market competitive again and home sellers thinking about cashing in on a hot market wonder where they could afford to buy.

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Does Toronto Have a Home Supply Problem?

This month we explore low inventory levels and demand shock in Toronto's housing market. 

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Mortgage Recap: What You Need to Know Now

In a rare week of no new Canada mortgage news, it's a good opportunity to make sure your mortgage planning is in tune with current realities.

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Housing Regulator: T.O. 'High Risk' + 'Flipping' Draws BOC Attention

In Toronto: Regulators finally sound the housing alarm, but is it too late as bidding wars continue to heat up? 

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Shared Spaces: What Can You Do to Common Condo Elements?

Privacy screens and video cameras out while religious decorations allowed in recent Ontario legal rulings on shared condo building/townhouse spaces.

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Government Cool Down Likely to Target Investors vs First Time Buyers

What action should policy makers take to mitigate Canada's runaway home prices - and what are they most likely to do?

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Are the Bank of Canada and CMHC Fuelling a Housing Bubble?

This month we explore the booming housing market in Toronto and across Canada and how new macro-prudential policies can be introduced to help cool the market. 

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Central Bank vs. the Bond Market: Round Two

Where will things go in the ongoing fight between the central banks and the bond market - and what should mortgage borrowers do?

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A Wild Year for Toronto Condos + The Unrelenting 'Canadian Housing Boom'

In Toronto: A wild year for the condo market and Toronto's housing bubble gets international attention.

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How FOMO is Sending Canada's Home Prices Soaring

Why mortgage rate increases are unlikely to dampen buyer enthusiasm, how the Bank of Canada is contributing to it and more.

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Prince Edward County Real Estate: Disconnected From Reality

Over the last several months, prices for PEC homes have become disconnected from reality. 

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The Incredible Turnaround of Toronto's Condo Market

This month we do a data dive on the City of Toronto’s volatile condo market over the past year. 

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The Fight Between the Bond Market and the Bank of Canada

Where will things go for variable and fixed rate mortgage borrowers?

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Toronto's Affordability Crisis + Experts Sound Canada Bubble Alarm

In Toronto: The affordability crisis in the city cannot be ignored, as demand continues to flourish with little supply.

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Toronto Market Report: 79% of Houses Sell Over Asking in February

'Excessive exuberance' on display in the Toronto area real estate market right now.

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Fixed or Variable Mortgage Rate - Which One Should You Choose?

With fixed rates rising, should you be changing your game plan?

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CMHC Acknowledges Its Bad Market Forecast

A closer look at some surprising real estate stories this week.

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Toronto Area RE Bubble Concerns + Average Home Price Surpasses $1M

In Toronto: It's bubbling, that much is clear. What's next for Toronto's red-hot housing market? Very expensive dilapidated garages.  

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Look Out for Work Orders and Permits Before You Buy

Who is responsible when a home is so defective that it is deemed unsafe to occupy?

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Fixed Mortgage Rates Rise on Inflation Fears

Sometimes inflation fears cause more inflation, but there are signs this spike in Canada is temporary. 

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Authorities Acknowledge Housing 'Overheating' + Return Of The Flippers

In Toronto: Bubble signs abound in the city as the CMHC acknowledges a soaring housing market and the return of flippers.

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How Do You (Finally) Win a Bid for a Home in a Crazy Market?

With some homes getting up to 30 offers in the Toronto area right now, how can you get ahead as a buyer? 

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Canadian Fixed Mortgage Rates Are About to Rise

Five-year fixed mortgage rates are on the way up in response to the growing consensus belief that US inflationary pressures will rise quickly. 

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Toronto Real Estate Back To Madness + Examining The Suburban Bubble

In Toronto: An in-depth look at the Toronto suburban housing bubble and where we go from here.  

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Prince Edward County: What Will Happen When The Bubble Ends?

With shortage of listings and continued demand from Toronto migrants, the real estate market was firmly in bubble territory with a price increase of 41%.

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How is Real Estate on Fire While Jobs Are on Ice?

Debt Free in 30's Doug Hoyes talks to John Pasalis about the pandemic lockdown, government policy, buyer fatigue and more

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Key Mortgage Tips to Know Now

Happy Family Day to Move Smartly Readers! Here's a review of top mortgage tips for 2021. 

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Stats Behind Toronto Suburbs Bubble +  Home Prices To Surge 10%

In Toronto: The suburban house market is bubbling and what it means, plus where are condo prices rising the fastest? 

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Toronto’s Suburban Housing Bubble

This month we look at Toronto's emerging housing bubble in the suburbs, how it's different from 2017 and how it will end this time around. 

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Home Inspections - Who is Liable?

Can a home inspector avoid legal responsibility if there is an exclusion of liability clause in the inspection contract?

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Lockdowns Trigger a Job Loss Spike and Bond Yields Rise Anyway

While lockdowns have lowered infection rates and saved lives, it has negatively impacted our economic momentum and will ultimately add to the time needed for our society to...

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Fewer Houses for Sale Fuelling Toronto Price Increases

Realosophy's John Pasalis talks to Yahoo Finance on the record highs in real estate and why work from home, low inventory, bidding wars, and the Bank of Canada raises housing...

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The Data On Toronto Urban Exodus + Can, Auz Real Estate Pandemic-Proof

In Toronto:  The numbers behind the urban exodus and the search for condo affordability, fierce bidding for Toronto homes and a condo bounce back.

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Best Performing Neighbourhoods in Toronto and the GTA - Condos

In this post we look at the condominium neighbourhoods within the Toronto and GTA area that have performed well in terms of home price appreciation during 2020. 

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Best Performing Neighbourhoods in Toronto and the GTA - Houses

Given the year we’ve had and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s interesting to note which neighbourhoods within the Toronto and GTA area have performed well in terms of...

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Mortgage Rates Depend on Who Wins Between the Virus and the Vaccine

We are in the middle of a race between the virus and the cure, and both the timing and the outcome are still very much in question. The direction of mortgage rates depend on who...

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Toronto Bully Bidders Back + Rental-Condo Listings Jump 132%

In Toronto: Even the bullies are locking heads in a red-hot housing market, while rental-condo listings jump an exorbitant amount. 

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The Expensive Rules of Property Easements

Homeowners are allowed use the surface of a property easement, as long as it doesn’t interfere with the utilities underneath. If it does, costs add up. 

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2021: The Year Ahead — What's Next for Toronto Real Estate?

In this month's Move Smartly report, we look at key trends to keep an eye on in the Toronto real estate market during 2021.

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The Bank of Canada Finds Vaccine Fueled Hope

Five insights into the Bank of Canada's optimistic forecast due to falling infection rates and large-scale vaccinations, and what that means for your mortgage. 

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Seller Fatigue Hits TO Condos + Rental Vacancy Rate Hits 50-year High

In Toronto: Suburbs becoming unaffordable; seller fatigue in condo market as rental vacancy rate hits a 50-year high in the city. 

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2020: Year in Review — COVID-19 Impacts on Toronto Real Estate

In this month's Move Smartly report, we look back at 2020 and how COVID-19 impacted the Toronto real estate market. 

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A Worst Case Scenario for Your Mortgage

We're in for a tough winter but there's hope. Forecasters expect our economy to rebound robustly and inflation to surge, as consumers spend the cash they saved during the...

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Trolling For Condo Deals + A Home Sales Record For 2020

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. 

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Why are Home Prices Expected to Keep on Rising?

Realosophy's John Pasalis talks to Yahoo Finance about why Toronto's real estate market broke records during what's usually a quiet holiday season.

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Prince Edward County: Seller’s Market Continues But Will It Last?

The strong seller’s market in Prince Edward County continued in December - for how long depends on second wave Covid-19 lockdowns impact on incomes.

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Readers Views: Who Keeps the Cash Left Behind in a Home?

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

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Investors Return to Downtown Toronto Condos As All Sales Surge in Dec

Realosophy's John Pasalis talks to BNN's Greg Bonnell about record month in which sales surged 64.5 per cent year-over-year amidst double-digit gains in all property types. 

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Will Job Losses Hasten the Bank of Canada’s Next Rate Cut?

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

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Toronto Condo Investors Set Floor + New Zealand's Housing Wealth Gap

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

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When Will Toronto’s Downtown Condo Market Return to Normal?

This month's Move Smartly report discusses when Toronto's downtown condo market will return to normal and the many vulnerabilities it faces. 

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2021 Interest Rate Update

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. 

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Toronto's Busy Holiday Market + Remote Work's Seismic Impact

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.

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Are Home Buyers the Keepers of $500K Discovered During Renovations?

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

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Top Mortgage Tips Now: Holiday Edition

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. 

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Bubble Like Appreciation in Toronto's Suburbs

This month's Move Smartly report investigates the rapid acceleration in demand and house prices in Toronto's suburban markets. 

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Durham Region Home Prices Spike + Small Condo Investors Struggle

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

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Why Another Bank of Canada Rate Cut May Be on Its Way

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

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Top Five Things to Know About Your Mortgage Right Now

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

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Toronto Eyes Vacant Home Tax + Liberals Circle Back On Foreign Buyers

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. 

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What Will Happen to Canadian Mortgage Rates When the Pandemic Ends?

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

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Will Condo Slowdown Impact Detached Market + Developers Target Suburbs

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

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The Best and Worst Performing Condos Today

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

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Why Spiking Inflation Won’t Impact Canadian Mortgage Rates

Inflation spiked last month.

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TO Condo Prices Continue Drop + Covid's Digital Nomads

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

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Have Canadian Mortgage Rates Bottomed?

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

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Toronto Condo Prices Down 9% from Peak

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

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Young Tenants Ditch Tiny Condos + Investors Watch And Wait

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

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Will October Mark the End of Canada’s Employment Recovery?

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

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Condo Panic In GTA + Detached Homes Average $1.2M

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

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Fixed- or Variable-Rate Mortgage? Right Now It’s No Contest

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.

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House Sales Still Up, Condo Rents Plunge + Big Banks Not Worried

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

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Price Edward County Real Estate Unsustainable Due to Covid Demand

Extraordinary demand coupled with low listings are making County real estate unsustainable.

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Buying and Selling During a Pandemic – What to Do First?

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.

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Canadian Inflation Ticks Higher But Impact Remains Subdued

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

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Exodus To Ontario's Small Markets + Canada's Money Laundering Problem

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

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Why the Bank of Canada Ending Mortgage Bond Buying May Matter

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

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Home Prices Up, Tiny Condos Down + Poloz Not Really Worried

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

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Why Are Condo Units for Rent Surging in Toronto?

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

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Canadian Employment Surges - But For How Long?

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

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Toronto Condos For Sale Surge 215% + Cities Most at Risk of Bubbles

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

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Will July’s Surge in Canadian Economic Momentum Continue?

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

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Five Must-Read Posts about Canadian Mortgages and Rates

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

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City Rental Shortage To Skyrocket + Toronto's Slow Approval Times

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

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Why Are Toronto Homes So Unaffordable?

Once again, is the real problem supply or demand?

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So When Will Canadian Mortgage Rates Rise Again?

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?

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Rents Fall As Condo Inventory Rises + More Canadians Want To Buy Home

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

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Bubble Market in Prince Edward County Real Estate

Record sales, stressed buyers and deals falling apart - contributor Treat Hull urges caution from "The County" in the frenzy to get out of Toronto amidst Covid.

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Will Toronto Area Home Prices Fall in 2020?

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.

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Bank of Canada Confirms Ultra-Low Mortgage Rates Are Here to Stay

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

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Numbers Behind City Exodus + Rental Demand Takes Hit

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

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Employment Data Confirm Our Recovery Is Still in the Early Innings

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

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20% Price Surge Smashes Record + Rents Are Lower, But Not For Everyone

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

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Are We Headed for Too Much Inflation or Not Enough?

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

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Single-Family Homes Lead Recovery + Renters Gain Power in Soft Market

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

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1 In 3 Say COVID-19 Altered Housing Preferences + A Record-Breaking July

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

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A Theory on Why CMHC President Evan Siddall Went Rogue Last Week

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

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Hottest TO Markets In Outer Suburbs + Rents Rising But Not Downtown

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

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Fixed or Variable? Mortgage Rate Forecast: COVID-19 Edition

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

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A Record Breaking July In Toronto + Cottage Dream Reality Check

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

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Seven Things You Need to Know About Toronto Real Estate Right Now

Our interviews with top experts on the market amidst Covid-19 identified these key factors making an impact now - and what to watch for next.

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Surprising Toronto Home Price Rise + Condo Sales in Big Drop

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

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Vertical Life: What Happens When a Condo Neighbour is Smoker?

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

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Prices On The Upswing + Former Airbnb Units Flood Market

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

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The Bank of Canada’s Surprising Admission That Ultra-Low Mortgage Rates Are Here to Stay

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

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Furnished Condo Listings Spike + Housing Market Belies Downturn

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

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Toronto Real Estate Summit

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.

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Why Our Record Employment Gains Aren’t Impacting Mortgage Rates

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

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Home Prices Soar + Tory Pressured To Action On Eviction Laws

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

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Must-Have Mortgage Tools for Every Home Buyer

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

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Toronto Buyers Flock to Cottages + Guelph Best Place To Buy In Canada?

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

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How Will Choppy Waters Ahead Impact Canadian Mortgage Rates?

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

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Now Cheaper to Rent vs. Buy Condo in Toronto + Lack of Foreign Student Impact Canada Real Estate?

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.

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Why Record-Low Mortgage Rates Now Seem Inevitable

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

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Toronto Area Housing Market Robust Amidst Pandemic, Rent Drops

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

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How is Toronto Real Estate Hot With Unemployment at 14%?

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.

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Beware the Siren Call of HSBC’s 1.99% Five-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage

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

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GTA Tops NA Growth + Virtual Showings Become The Norm

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

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How CMHC’s Surprise Rule Tightening May Help Mortgage Borrowers

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

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Toronto Home Sales Trend Upward + Mortgage Rules Tightened Up

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

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Tenants, Home Sellers Clash in COVID + Canada Home Prices to Drop?

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

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Are Home Prices Going to Fall 18% As CMHC Predicts?

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

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Why New COVID-19 Legal Clauses in Real Estate Deals Are a Problem

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

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Why Mortgage Minimum Down Payment Shouldn't Be Raised to 10%

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

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Corona Crisis Week 10: Are Toronto Condo Prices Really Down 10%?

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

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TO Home Sales Down 69% + Reimagining Spaces After COVID-19

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

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Corona Crisis: Mortgage Advice Recap

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

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Corona Crisis Week 9: Toronto Area Real Estate Market Heating Up

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

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The COVID-19, Housing Connection + Bank Of Canada Debt Warning

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

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Will Record Job Losses Lead to Negative Bond Yields?

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

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Home Sales Hit Record Low + Sidewalk Labs Abandons Toronto Project

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

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Should You Break Your Fixed-Rate Mortgage for a Lower Rate?

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

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Toronto Area Home Sales Hit a Record Low in April

The Greater Toronto Area saw a record low 2,942 home sales in April 2020.

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Toronto Condos Earning Less Rent + Home Sellers Tested in Pandemic

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

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Average Condo Rents Fall in Toronto

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

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Corona Crisis Week 7: Signs of Stability in Toronto’s Real Estate Market

An increase in months of inventory suggests buyers as slowly re-entering the market - but not all regions across the Toronto area are picking up at the same speed.

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Canadian Mortgage Rates Are Finally Starting to Fall

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

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Toronto Condo Sales Plummet + Home Prices Stable - For Now

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

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Corona Crisis Week 6: Is Toronto’s Real Estate Market Stabilizing?

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.

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Is the Bank of Canada’s Firehose Working?

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 working.

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No Going Back For Home Buyers + Market Braces For Reckoning

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. 

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Corona Crisis Week 5: Toronto Area Home Sales Down Sharply

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.

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Our New Canadian Mortgage Landscape?

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.

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Coronavirus Impacts GTA Housing + Steps After The Lockdown

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

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Corona Crisis Week 4: Best and Worst Performing Real Estate Markets in the GTA

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

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The Slam Dunk Mortgage Option Right Now (and a Warning about HELOCs)

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

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Toronto Home Sales Quickly Decline + Airbnb Seeks Government Help

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

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Corona Crisis Week 3: Toronto's Real Estate Market Hits the Brakes

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

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The Bank of Canada Cuts Again and Policy Makers Get Creative

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.

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