Ottawa’s housing market continues to demonstrate resilience amid broader economic uncertainty. October brought a modest, seasonal lift in sales activity alongside a decline in the elevated inventory levels seen in recent months—signalling a stable yet cautious phase as we transition into the slower winter period.

A total of 1,177 homes were sold last month, marking an 8.1% increase from September’s 1,089 transactions, though a 1.2% decline year over year compared to October 2024. The average sale price rose to $709,002, up 2.7% month over month and 5.7% higher year over year, suggesting that underlying demand remains healthy despite economic headwinds.

Ottawa recorded 2,405 new listings in October, a 15.1% decrease from September but 13.4% higher than the same month last year. This seasonal dip between September and October has been a consistent trend over the past decade. Meanwhile, active listings fell from 4,388 to 4,232, a 3.6% decline, reflecting the usual autumn adjustment. While inventory remains above levels seen in prior years, this familiar fall decrease indicates that supply is starting to stabilize within a balanced market range.

Reinforcing that balance, the months of inventory eased from 4.0 to 3.6, pointing to a modest tightening between supply and demand as the fall market settled.

The Bank of Canada’s second consecutive rate cut on October 29, 2025, lowered the policy rate by 25 basis points to 2.25%, offering additional relief to borrowers and fueling optimism for an active spring market ahead. However, the Bank cautioned that this move likely marks the final cut in the current cycle.

The Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) continues to monitor the recently tabled federal budget and workforce announcements, as fiscal adjustments in these areas often have a direct impact on Ottawa’s market given the city’s significant federal employment base.

Overall, Ottawa’s market remains balanced and fundamentally sound, with measured demand, stable pricing, and a steady performance heading toward year-end.

“Ottawa’s market continues to demonstrate balance and resilience,” said OREB President Paul Czan. “We’re seeing modest growth in sales activity, stable pricing, and a seasonal easing of elevated inventory levels. The recent rate adjustments provide optimism for the coming months, but economic uncertainty looms, and buyers and sellers remain cautious, watching how broader economic factors play out. The current environment points to a steady market rather than a rapid shift in either direction.”

Residential Market Activity

Year to date, 12,197 homes have been sold — a 3.3% increase over the first ten months of 2024. The total dollar volume through October reached $8.55 billion, up 6.5% year over year, while the average year-to-date price sits at $700,869, representing a 3.0% annual increase.

In October alone, the total value of homes sold amounted to $834.5 million, a 4.5% gain compared to last year.

On the supply side, 2,405 new listings entered the market, down 15.1% from September, but still 13.4% higher than October 2024. Active listings totalled 4,232, reflecting a 3.6% month-over-month decrease but 21.3% higher year over year. The months of inventory eased to 3.6, underscoring a slightly tighter yet still balanced market.

MLS® Home Price Index (HPI)

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark for Ottawa was $622,700 in October, down 0.7% month over month but up 0.7% year over year—continuing a trend of moderate, sustainable price movement rather than volatility.

By property category:

• Single-Family Homes: $692,400 — up 0.3% from October 2024

• Townhomes: $456,300 — up 6.6% year over year

• Apartments: $402,900 — up 0.1% year over year

Market Outlook

As the year draws to a close, Ottawa’s housing market stands out for its measured strength and balance. With steady prices, moderating supply, and continued buyer confidence, the capital’s real estate landscape remains well-positioned to navigate the winter slowdown and enter the spring market on solid footing.

Source: OREB.ca

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate by 25 basis points to 2.5%, with the Bank Rate at 2.75% and the deposit rate at 2.45%.

Global economic growth, which had remained resilient to sharply higher U.S. tariffs and ongoing uncertainty, is now showing signs of slowing. In the United States, business investment remains strong, but consumers are cautious, and employment gains have slowed. U.S. inflation has increased recently as some tariff costs are passed on to consumer prices. Growth in the euro area has moderated due to the impact of U.S. tariffs on trade. In China, growth held up in the first half of the year but is softening as investment weakens. Global oil prices remain near levels assumed in the July Monetary Policy Report (MPR), while financial conditions have eased further with higher equity prices and lower bond yields. The Canadian dollar has remained stable against the U.S. dollar.

Domestically, Canada’s GDP declined by about 1½% in the second quarter, reflecting the weight of tariffs and trade uncertainty. Exports fell sharply by 27% in Q2 after first-quarter gains driven by pre-tariff orders. Business investment also declined, while consumption and housing activity grew at a healthy pace. Looking ahead, slow population growth and a softening labour market are expected to dampen household spending.

Employment has declined over the past two months since the July MPR, with losses concentrated in trade-sensitive sectors and hiring slowing elsewhere. The unemployment rate increased to 7.1% in August, while wage growth continues to ease.

CPI inflation was 1.9% in August, consistent with July, while inflation excluding taxes was 2.4%. Core inflation measures have remained around 3%, though recent monthly momentum has eased. Broader indicators, including alternative core measures, suggest underlying inflation is running near 2½%. The federal government’s removal of most retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports is expected to reduce upward price pressure on these goods.

Given the weaker economy and reduced upside risk to inflation, the Governing Council deemed a reduction in the policy rate appropriate to balance risks. The Bank will monitor how trade shifts affect exports, business investment, employment, household spending, and inflation expectations.

The Bank reaffirmed its commitment to price stability and economic growth, stating it will continue to support Canadians “through this period of global upheaval” while keeping inflation well controlled.

OTTAWA, August 7, 2025 – Ottawa’s housing market continues to demonstrate steady demand, moderate price growth, and a healthy level of supply—even as other markets experience increased volatility.

Some Ontario markets are encountering more pronounced slowdowns, with declining sales, price corrections, and rising inventory levels outpacing demand. Historically, Ottawa has been somewhat insulated from such extremes due to its stable employment base and consistent population growth, but broader provincial or national trends can still influence the local market over time.

The recent rise in active listings, both year-over-year and compared to the five-year average, may signal early supply pressure. At the same time, the sales-to-new-listings ratio increased from 51.7% to 55.1% compared to last year, indicating that demand is keeping pace with supply. For now, this rise in inventory gives buyers more choice, but it is a trend worth monitoring.

“While we’ve seen demand softening in the condo market, especially in the downtown core, Ottawa’s real estate market continues to stand out for its resilience and stability,” says Paul Czan, President of the Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB). “With steady demand, balanced inventory, and moderate price growth, our fundamentals remain strong. We’re keeping a close eye on changing dynamics and will continue providing transparent insights to help our Members and the public navigate the market with confidence.”

Residential Market Activity
In July 2025, 1,318 homes were sold across the OREB region. While this is down from 1,602 units in June, it represents a 4.9% increase over July 2024. Year-to-date, there have been 8,704 home sales, 3.1% higher than at the same point in 2024.

The average sale price for all homes sold in July was $695,209, up 2.2% from last year, while the year-to-date average stands at $702,840, a 3% increase over the first seven months of 2024. Total dollar volume of sales in July reached approximately $920 million, a 7.2% increase year-over-year.

On the listings side, 2,549 new residential properties were added in July, up 11.7% from last year. Active listings totaled 4,205 units, up 14% compared to July 2024 and 23.6% above the five-year average. Months of inventory rose slightly to 3.2, compared to 2.9 a year ago and 2.7 last month—indicative of a balanced market.

MLS® Home Price Index
The MLS® HPI composite benchmark price in Ottawa was $633,100 in July, a 1.9% increase year-over-year. By property type:

• Single-family homes: $704,800, up 2%

• Townhouses: $468,000, up 8.3%

• Apartments: $411,900, down 1.6%

Source: members.oreb.ca

The Bank of Canada has announced it will maintain its target for the overnight rate at 2.75%, with the Bank Rate at 3% and the deposit rate at 2.70%.

Global trade developments—particularly involving the United States—continue to create uncertainty. Although recent U.S. trade policies have begun to take clearer shape, the landscape remains unpredictable. The Bank’s July Monetary Policy Report (MPR) does not include traditional base-case projections for GDP and inflation due to this instability. Instead, it outlines a “current tariff scenario” based on tariffs confirmed as of July 27, along with two alternatives: one assuming further tariff escalation and another assuming de-escalation.

Despite the turbulence in trade flows, the global economy has shown a degree of resilience. In the United States, growth moderated in early 2025, though the labour market remains healthy. Notably, U.S. CPI inflation rose in June, with signs emerging that some tariffs are beginning to feed into consumer prices. The eurozone experienced modest economic expansion, while China’s exports to the U.S. have declined—a trend largely balanced by stronger exports to other regions.

Financial markets have also responded: global oil prices remain close to April levels, equity markets have moved higher, and corporate credit spreads have narrowed. Government bond yields have edged upward. Meanwhile, the Canadian dollar has appreciated, supported by a broadly weaker U.S. dollar.

In this current tariff scenario, global growth is expected to slow slightly to about 2.5% by the end of 2025, before recovering to around 3% in 2026–2027.

OTTAWA, July 7, 2025 – A total of 1,602 homes were sold through the MLS® System of the Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) in June 2025. This represents an 11.34% decrease from the previous month, a 10.6% increase compared to June 2024, and sits 3.8% above the five-year average.*

“June was the busiest month we've seen in quite some time, with sales up 10.6% and new listings rising nearly 14% year over year, signifying we did, in fact, have a delayed spring market,” says OREB President Paul Czan. “We’re seeing more inventory hit the market, giving buyers more choice. With the changing market conditions, sellers need to be future-focused—pricing thoughtfully and preparing their homes to be one of the top picks in their area.”

“Apartments are one segment that continues to feel the strain, with sales down about 20% and inventory building. That’s partly due to an increase in new construction, but also a slowdown in immigration numbers,” adds Czan. “Still, Ottawa remains a stable market. We’re returning to familiar seasonal trends, where summer activity picks up for families looking to settle before the school year. With students returning to the city, a stronger fall is likely ahead.”

By the Numbers – Prices
The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) tracks price trends more accurately than average or median price measures.

• The overall MLS® HPI composite benchmark price in June 2025 was $634,300, up 1.6% from June 2024.

  • Single-family homes had a benchmark price of $707,600, up 1.6% year-over-year.

  • Townhouse/row units** saw a benchmark price of $467,900, a 9.0% increase from 2024.

  • Apartments had a benchmark price of $411,500, a 0.6% decline year-over-year.

• The average price of homes sold in June 2025 was $723,152, a 5.2% increase over June 2024.

• Total dollar volume of all home sales in June reached $1.15 billion, a 16.3% increase from the same period last year.

OREB cautions that while average sale prices can indicate trends over time, they should not be used to determine the value of specific properties, as prices vary by neighbourhood. Average price is calculated based on total dollar volume of all properties sold.

By the Numbers – Inventory & New Listings

• New listings rose 13.8% from June 2024, with 2,933 residential properties added to the market—6.6% above the five-year average.

• Active residential listings at the end of June totaled 4,350 units, up 11.6% from the same month last year and 42.6% above the five-year average.

• Months of inventory remained steady at 2.7, unchanged from June 2024. This figure represents the number of months it would take to sell current inventories at the current sales pace.

OTTAWA, June 6, 2025 – The Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) reports that 1,807 homes were sold through the MLS® System in May 2025. This represents a 33.1% increase over the previous month, a 14.9% rise compared to May 2024, and is 2.5% above the five-year average.*

“Year-to-date home sales activity remains in line with 2024; however, the 33.1% surge over April 2025 suggests we’re experiencing a delayed spring market,” says OREB President Paul Czan. “April’s federal election occupied consumers’ attention, and now we’re seeing a shift in the marketplace. Active listings are on the rise, months of inventory remain steady, and buyers appear to be regaining confidence, re-entering the market and completing transactions. For sellers, however, rising inventory means competitive pricing and strong presentation are more important than ever.”

“Compared to markets like Toronto or Vancouver, which are showing signs of stagnation, Ottawa is holding steady,” adds Czan. “Buyers and sellers are still able to transact fairly, with sale prices remaining close to list, even amid broader economic uncertainty. The Bank of Canada’s recent decision to hold the key interest rate steady may further encourage activity, as buyers feel more confident that rates will not drop further.”

By the Numbers – Prices
The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) offers a more accurate reflection of price trends than average or median price measures.

• The overall MLS® HPI composite benchmark price in May 2025 was $629,800, up 0.8% from May 2024.

  • Single-family homes had a benchmark price of $700,000, up 0.6% year-over-year.

  • Townhouse/row units** saw a benchmark price of $446,900, an increase of 3.4% from 2024.

  • Apartments had a benchmark price of $404,700, a 3.6% decline from last year.

• The average price of homes sold in May 2025 was $728,623, a 4.8% increase over May 2024.

• Total dollar volume of all home sales in May 2025 reached $1.316 billion, a 20.4% increase from the same period last year.

OREB cautions that while the average sale price can indicate trends over time, it should not be used to determine the value of specific properties, as prices vary by neighbourhood. The average price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold.

By the Numbers – Inventory & New Listings

• New listings rose 8.7% from May 2024, with 3,430 residential properties added to the market—15.8% above the five-year average.

• Active residential listings reached 4,347 units at the end of May 2025, a 13.5% increase from May 2024 and 54.2% above the five-year average.

• Months of inventory remained steady at 2.4, unchanged from the previous year. This figure represents the number of months it would take to sell current inventories at the current sales pace.

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 2.75%, with the Bank Rate at 3% and the deposit rate at 2.70%.

The Canadian economy entered 2025 in a solid position, with inflation close to the 2% target and robust GDP growth. However, heightened trade tensions and tariffs imposed by the United States will likely slow the pace of economic activity and increase inflationary pressures in Canada. The economic outlook continues to be subject to more-than-usual uncertainty because of the rapidly evolving policy landscape.

After a period of solid growth, the US economy looks to have slowed in recent months. US inflation remains slightly above target. Economic growth in the euro zone was modest in late 2024. China’s economy has posted strong gains, supported by government policies. Equity prices have fallen and bond yields have eased on market expectations of weaker North American growth. Oil prices have been volatile and are trading below the assumptions in the Bank’s January Monetary Policy Report (MPR). The Canadian dollar is broadly unchanged against the US dollar but weaker against other currencies.

Canada’s economy grew by 2.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024 following upwardly revised growth of 2.2% in the third quarter. This growth path is stronger than was expected at the time of the January MPR. Past cuts to interest rates have boosted economic activity, particularly consumption and housing. However, economic growth in the first quarter of 2025 will likely slow as the intensifying trade conflict weighs on sentiment and activity. Recent surveys suggest a sharp drop in consumer confidence and a slowdown in business spending as companies postpone or cancel investments. The negative impact of slowing domestic demand has been partially offset by a surge in exports in advance of tariffs being imposed.

Employment growth strengthened in November through January and the unemployment rate declined to 6.6%. In February, job growth stalled. While past interest rate cuts have boosted demand for labour in recent months, there are warning signs that heightened trade tensions could disrupt the recovery in the jobs market. Meanwhile, wage growth has shown signs of moderation.

Inflation remains close to the 2% target. The temporary suspension of the GST/HST lowered some consumer prices, but January’s CPI was slightly firmer than expected at 1.9%. Inflation is expected to increase to about 2½% in March with the end of the tax break. The Bank’s preferred measures of core inflation remain above 2%, mainly because of the persistence of shelter price inflation. Short-term inflation expectations have risen in light of fears about the impact of tariffs on prices.

While economic growth has come in stronger than expected, the pervasive uncertainty created by continuously changing US tariff threats is restraining consumers’ spending intentions and businesses’ plans to hire and invest. Against this background, and with inflation close to the 2% target, Governing Council decided to reduce the policy rate by a further 25 basis points.

Monetary policy cannot offset the impacts of a trade war. What it can and must do is ensure that higher prices do not lead to ongoing inflation. Governing Council will be carefully assessing the timing and strength of both the downward pressures on inflation from a weaker economy and the upward pressures on inflation from higher costs. The Council will also be closely monitoring inflation expectations. The Bank is committed to maintaining price stability for Canadians.

Source: www.bankofcanada.ca

A total of 809 homes were sold in February 2025 through the MLS® System of the Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB), marking a 10.2% decrease compared to February 2024. Home sales were 19.1% below the five-year average and 15.4% lower than the 10-year average for February.

"Ottawa’s sales activity moderated while prices held steady," says OREB President Paul Czan. "Despite increased inventory, market uncertainty continues to influence buyer and seller decisions. Some sellers who had previously delayed listing are now entering the market, contributing to more options for buyers. While demand remains strong in certain price segments, the pace of sales varies, making strategic pricing and preparation key for sellers."

Czan adds, "The Bank of Canada’s influence on borrowing power, ongoing economic factors like tariffs, and the potential impact of upcoming elections are also shaping buyer and seller sentiment. As we approach the spring market, we anticipate increased buyer activity, particularly if interest rates trend downward and confidence continues to build."

By the Numbers – Prices:

The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) provides a more accurate representation of price trends compared to average or median price calculations.

• The overall MLS® HPI composite benchmark price in February 2025 was $658,300, reflecting a 4.4% increase from February 2024.

  • The benchmark price for a single-family home was $719,800, rising 1.3% year-over-year.

  • In contrast, the benchmark price for a townhouse/row unit dropped 11.6% to $438,000.

  • The benchmark price for an apartment reached $459,300, up 4.5% from the previous year.

• The average home price in February 2025 was $669,945, reflecting a 1.4% increase from February 2024.

• The total dollar volume of home sales in February 2025 was $541.9 million, down 8.9% from the same period last year.

OREB advises that while the average sale price can help identify trends over time, it should not be used to determine the value of specific properties. The average price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all sales, and price trends will differ across neighbourhoods.

By the Numbers – Inventory & New Listings:

• New listings increased 4.8% from February 2024, with 1,668 new residential properties added to the market. This was 10.8% above the five-year average and 6.7% above the 10-year average for February.

• Active residential listings at the end of February 2025 totaled 3,735 units, a 61.4% surge compared to February 2024. Active listings were 95.7% above the five-year average and 51.4% higher than the 10-year average for February.

• Months of inventory stood at 4.6 at the end of February 2025, up from 2.6 in February 2024. This metric represents how long it would take to sell all current listings at the current pace of sales.

Source:www.oreb.ca

A total of 617 homes were sold through the MLS® System of the Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) in January 2025, marking a 4.2% decline compared to January 2024.

Home sales fell 13% below the five-year average and 9.6% under the 10-year average for January.

“Ottawa’s market is seeing increased activity as more listings hit the market and buyers start to re-engage,” says OREB President Paul Czan. “Many buyers and sellers had been waiting for more conducive market conditions, but with the recent rate cut and potentially lower interest rates on the horizon, optimism is growing. While there’s more supply, the availability of suitable properties in various market segments remains tight. This is reflected in some homes selling quickly while others linger on the market. Sellers should be prepared to price competitively and present their homes in the best light to capture buyer interest in this evolving market."

“The recent Bank of Canada rate cut, introduction of U.S. tariffs, along with upcoming provincial and federal elections, introduce factors of variability,” adds Czan. “That said, confidence is growing, and more buyers are expected to return to the market in the coming months, leading to an increase in transactions.”

By the Numbers – Prices

The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) provides a more precise measurement of price trends than average or median price calculations.

• The overall MLS® HPI composite benchmark price stood at $649,900 in January 2025, reflecting a 5.2% increase from January 2024.

• The benchmark price for single-family homes reached $713,000, up 2.3% year-over-year.

• In contrast, the benchmark price for townhouse/row units declined 3.9% from the previous year to $448,000.

• The benchmark price for apartments was $436,900, a 4.5% increase from January 2024.

• The average sale price of homes in January 2025 was $670,258, a 5.8% rise from the previous year.

• The total dollar volume of all home sales in January 2025 amounted to $413.5 million, reflecting a 1.3% increase compared to January 2024.

OREB advises that while the average sale price can highlight broader market trends over time, it should not be interpreted as an indicator of value changes for specific properties. The average price is derived from the total dollar volume of all sales, with prices varying across different neighbourhoods.

By the Numbers – Inventory and New Listings

• New residential listings rose by 3.0% compared to January 2024, with 1,359 new properties hitting the market in January 2025. New listings were 14.1% above the five-year average and 9.3% higher than the 10-year average for January.

• Active residential listings reached 3,312 units at the end of January 2025, marking a 57.3% increase from January 2024. Active listings were 90.6% higher than the five-year average and 48.9% above the 10-year average for January.

• Months of inventory stood at 5.4 at the end of January 2025, compared to 3.3 in January 2024. This figure represents the number of months required to sell the current inventory at the existing rate of sales activity.

Thinking about buying or selling in Ottawa’s evolving market? Whether you're a buyer looking for the right opportunity or a seller wanting to position your home competitively, we're here to help you navigate the market with confidence.

Contact us today for expert advice and personalized guidance! Let's make your real estate goals a reality.

Windows are like picture frames, showcasing the view beyond. But what if your window view isn’t quite as breathtaking as you’d hoped? Whether you're facing an unsightly backyard or an urban landscape that doesn’t match the charm of your home, there’s no need to worry. With the right strategies, you can transform the view and keep potential buyers focused on the beauty of your space, not the scenery outside.

Here are some clever ways to improve the impact of your windows and ensure the view becomes a subtle part of the room rather than its focal point.

1. Window Treatments: Your First Line of Defence

Window treatments are your go-to for softening an unappealing view. Sheer curtains allow natural light to filter in while gently obscuring the view outside. If you want to make a statement, opt for bold, colourful curtains that draw attention inward, creating a focal point that directs the eye away from the view.

2. Add a Window Box for a Lush Frame

A window box filled with vibrant flowers or lush greenery creates a beautiful natural frame that adds life to your window. Not only does it enhance the look of the space, but it also provides a pleasant distraction from the view. The colourful plants will serve as a living, vibrant picture frame.

3. Illuminate the Space

Proper lighting can make all the difference in drawing attention away from the view. Wall sconces, pendant lights, or even strategically placed mirrors can brighten the room, redirecting focus and making the space feel warm and inviting. The right lighting will elevate the entire room and make the window less of a focal point.

4. Frosted Glass or Window Films for Privacy and Style

If privacy is a concern, frosted glass or adhesive window films are a practical solution. Available in various patterns, they can mimic the elegance of etched or stained glass. Not only do they provide privacy, but they also add a stylish touch to your windows, helping to disguise an unattractive view.

5. Create a Gallery Wall Around the Window

Hang artwork or photographs around your window to draw attention to the walls instead of the view outside. By creating a gallery wall, you can turn the window into a part of the art collection, making it seem like just another element of the room rather than a portal to the outside world.

6. Stage High Shelves Near the Window

Consider staging high shelves with decorative items, books, or small plants near your window. This allows you to reclaim the line of sight, reducing the focus on the view. With the shelves in place, the window becomes a backdrop, and the items on the shelves add a layer of interest to the space.

When selling your home, the goal is to make every space feel welcoming and beautiful. Even if your window views aren’t ideal, there are plenty of ways to enhance the overall aesthetic without deceiving potential buyers. Whether through window treatments, creative staging, or lighting, these small changes can transform a less-than-ideal view into an attractive feature that supports the sale of your home.

Remember, the key is enhancing the space to showcase its potential!

When selling your home, timing is everything. Many sellers automatically think of weekends as the prime time for property viewings, but buyers often prefer weekday evenings for their showings. This can be due to work commitments, travel plans, or just a better fit with their schedule. If you don't offer flexibility and only schedule showings during weekends, you could miss out on a potential buyer.

Being accommodating with your showing times is key. Here’s how you can make your home more accessible without disrupting your life too much.

1. Consider Using a Lock Box

If you’re unable to be present during weekday showings—perhaps because you’re away for the week—consider using a lock box. This secure box holds the key to your home, and only your real estate agent has access. If another agent wants to show your home, they can request access through your agent. This way, you’re not tied down to specific times but still offering a safe and secure option for interested buyers.

2. Offer Weekend Flexibility

If weekday appointments don’t work for you, make sure to offer flexibility on weekends. Consider scheduling showings at times that might be outside of the typical Saturday or Sunday hours, such as Sunday evenings at 7:00 PM. While it’s a bit of a trade-off, this can help you accommodate buyers who may be unavailable earlier in the weekend.

3. Create a Single Weekday Showing Slot

For some sellers, managing weekday showings can be challenging—especially for families with busy schedules or evening work shifts. But instead of completely closing off weekdays, consider setting aside just one window. For example, you could offer viewings every Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:30 PM. This strategy helps keep your life intact while still offering the flexibility that buyers may need.

4. The Key Takeaway

The goal is to make your home as accessible as possible to potential buyers. A small shift in your schedule could be the difference between a showing and a sale. Being flexible with viewing times, whether it’s on a weekday evening, weekend, or through a lock box, can help you secure more offers and sell your home faster—and for top dollar.

Want more tips to help sell your home quickly and at the best price? Contact us today!

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 3¼%, with the Bank Rate at 3¾% and the deposit rate at 3¼%. The Bank is continuing its policy of balance sheet normalization.

The global economy is evolving largely as expected in the Bank’s October Monetary Policy Report (MPR). In the United States, the economy continues to show broad-based strength, with robust consumption and a solid labour market. US inflation has been holding steady, with some price pressures persisting. In the euro area, recent indicators point to weaker growth. In China, recent policy actions combined with strong exports are supporting growth, but household spending remains subdued. Global financial conditions have eased and the Canadian dollar has depreciated in the face of broad-based strength in the US dollar.

In Canada, the economy grew by 1% in the third quarter, somewhat below the Bank’s October projection, and the fourth quarter also looks weaker than projected. Third-quarter GDP growth was pulled down by business investment, inventories and exports. In contrast, consumer spending and housing activity both picked up, suggesting lower interest rates are beginning to boost household spending. Historical revisions to the National Accounts have increased the level of GDP over the past three years, largely reflecting higher investment and consumption. The unemployment rate rose to 6.8% in November as employment continued to grow more slowly than the labour force. Wage growth showed some signs of easing, but remains elevated relative to productivity.

A number of policy measures have been announced that will affect the outlook for near-term growth and inflation in Canada. Reductions in targeted immigration levels suggest GDP growth next year will be below the Bank’s October forecast. The effects on inflation will likely be more muted, given that lower immigration dampens both demand and supply. Other federal and provincial policies—including a temporary suspension of the GST on some consumer products, one-time payments to individuals, and changes to mortgage rules—will affect the dynamics of demand and inflation. The Bank will look through effects that are temporary and focus on underlying trends to guide its policy decisions.

In addition, the possibility the incoming US administration will impose new tariffs on Canadian exports to the United States has increased uncertainty and clouded the economic outlook.

CPI inflation has been about 2% since the summer, and is expected to average close to the 2% target over the next couple of years. Since October, the upward pressure on inflation from shelter and the downward pressure from goods prices have both moderated as expected. Looking ahead, the GST holiday will temporarily lower inflation but that will be unwound once the GST break ends. Measures of core inflation will help us assess the trend in CPI inflation.

With inflation around 2%, the economy in excess supply, and recent indicators tilted towards softer growth than projected, Governing Council decided to reduce the policy rate by a further 50 basis points to support growth and keep inflation close to the middle of the 1-3% target range. Governing Council has reduced the policy rate substantially since June. Going forward, we will be evaluating the need for further reductions in the policy rate one decision at a time. Our decisions will be guided by incoming information and our assessment of the implications for the inflation outlook. The Bank is committed to maintaining price stability for Canadians by keeping inflation close to the 2% target.

The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is January 29, 2025.

Source: bankofcanada.ca