If you're nearing retirement or have already stepped into this exciting new chapter of life, you may be considering downsizing. Moving to a smaller home, a condo, or a retirement community can help simplify your lifestyle, reduce financial stress, and allow you to focus on the things you love—whether that’s travel, hobbies, or spending more time with family.

So, how do you know if it’s time to downsize? Here are some key signs to look out for:

1. Your Home Is Becoming a Safety Concern

If you're experiencing frequent falls or find it challenging to navigate stairs, your current home may no longer be the best fit. A single-storey home, condo with an elevator, or a retirement community designed with accessibility in mind could provide a safer and more comfortable living environment.

2. Home Maintenance Feels Overwhelming

Keeping up with yard work, snow removal, and ongoing repairs can be exhausting—especially if you're spending more time and money on maintenance than enjoying your home. Downsizing to a smaller, more manageable space can relieve this burden and give you more freedom.

3. Housing Costs Are Becoming a Financial Strain

If your monthly housing costs exceed 30% of your income, it might be time to explore more affordable options. Downsizing can free up finances, lower your monthly expenses, and provide more flexibility to enjoy your retirement.

4. You Want to Access Your Home Equity

If you've built up significant equity in your home, downsizing can unlock those funds for travel, leisure, or even helping family members with major life expenses. Selling your current home could allow you to live more comfortably without worrying about financial constraints.

5. Your Home No Longer Fits Your Needs

Maybe you have extra rooms that sit empty or a large backyard you no longer use. If your home no longer suits your lifestyle, it may be time to consider a space that better aligns with your current needs.

6. You Feel Disconnected from Your Neighbourhood

Has your neighbourhood changed over the years? Perhaps long-time neighbours have moved, or the community no longer feels like the right fit. If you're longing for a stronger sense of belonging, a move to a retirement-friendly area or a community with shared amenities could be a great option.

7. You Want to Be Closer to Loved Ones

If your family has relocated and you’re feeling the distance, downsizing could be an opportunity to move closer to them. Being near loved ones can bring peace of mind and make family gatherings more convenient and frequent.

Embracing New Possibilities

Letting go of a home filled with memories is never easy, but downsizing isn’t about giving up—it’s about creating space for new experiences and opportunities. Whether it’s a move to a more accessible home, a vibrant retirement community, or a peaceful downsized retreat, this transition can open the door to a more fulfilling and stress-free lifestyle.

If you’re considering downsizing but aren’t sure where to start, we’re here to help. Our experience can guide you through every step of the process, from evaluating your home’s value to finding the perfect new space that fits your needs.

Check out our Downsizing Guide for more information. 

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

Ottawa City Council has approved plans to expand two existing fire stations in response to growing populations, intensification, and increasing call volumes in both Manotick and Greely. The fire station upgrades are part of the Ottawa Fire Services' 2025 Station Location Study, which aims to place fire stations in optimal locations to ensure prompt and effective emergency response across the city.

The renovations will include the addition of full-time personnel and enhancements to service coverage over the next 10 years.

• Station 94 at 5669 Manotick Main Street will expand its reach to a broader area, including Barrhaven and Riverside South, serving the growing population of residents, homes, and businesses in the area.

• Station 93 at 6891 Parkway Road in Greely will extend its coverage to nearby communities such as Findlay Creek, Leitrim, Metcalfe, and Osgoode.

The fire stations in these rural areas will also shift from a volunteer response standard to an urban response standard, reducing emergency response times from 11 minutes and 8 seconds to 7 minutes and 13 seconds. This change will significantly enhance the city’s ability to respond quickly to emergencies.

Funding for these expansions will be included in future budget plans, starting with the 2027 budget for Manotick and the 2030 budget for Greely.

Flood Protection Rebates for Ottawa Homeowners

In addition to the fire station updates, City Council has approved important updates to the Residential Protective Plumbing Program to help homeowners safeguard their properties from flooding and prepare for extreme weather events. These changes aim to simplify the application process and reduce associated costs.

Residents can now access larger rebates for installing sump pumps, backwater valves, and other protective plumbing measures to prevent basement flooding. Here’s what’s available:

• $3,000 for a sump pump in a new sump pit

• $1,500 for a sump pump in an existing pit

• $2,500 for an exterior storm backwater valve

• $1,000 for an indoor backwater valve

• 100% coverage of the building permit fee for protective plumbing work

These rebates are designed to help homeowners protect their properties from flooding and prepare for extreme weather events. The City has also made changes to the Compassionate Grant Program, which provides financial support for residents affected by flooding caused by sewer surcharging.

Ottawa’s commitment to enhancing fire services and flood protection is evident in these two important initiatives. The expansion of fire stations in Manotick and Greely will improve emergency response times, while the increase in flood protection rebates gives homeowners the tools to protect their properties from water damage.

For more information on the Residential Protective Plumbing Program click here!

Source: https://ottawa.ca/en

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.

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything—and bathrooms are no exception. A tired, outdated bathroom can quickly turn potential buyers off, leaving them with a negative overall impression of your home. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune on a full renovation to make a bathroom shine. With a few simple updates, you can create a fresh, modern space that will impress buyers and boost your home's appeal.

Here are some budget-friendly ways to refresh your bathroom:

1. Update Hardware for Instant Modernization

One of the quickest ways to transform the look of a bathroom is by swapping out outdated cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, and faucets. Sleek metallic finishes, such as brushed nickel or matte black, are incredibly popular and easy to install. These small changes can make a big difference in modernizing your space.

2. Give Grout and Caulking a Refresh

Over time, grout can discolour, and caulking around your tub or sink may start to peel. These issues are often overlooked, but a quick clean and touch-up can restore the bathroom’s appearance. A fresh layer of caulking and properly cleaned grout will give the impression of a well-maintained, freshly updated bathroom.

3. Revamp Lighting for a Welcoming Glow

Lighting plays a critical role in setting the tone of any room, and your bathroom is no different. Swap out old, dated light fixtures for more modern ones. If you’re not ready to rewire, simply upgrading your bulbs to bright, energy-efficient options can create a warm and inviting atmosphere—perfect for buyers.

4. Refresh Your Shower Curtain and Bath Mats

Replacing worn-out shower curtains and bathmats is an affordable and easy way to give your bathroom a quick makeover. Opt for light-coloured or clear shower curtains to make the space feel larger and brighter. Fresh, neutral bathmats will tie the space together while adding a touch of comfort.

5. Accessorize for Style and Simplicity

Sometimes, all a bathroom needs is a few well-placed accessories. Consider investing in a new soap dish, toothbrush holder, or a stylish tray for your toiletries. Fresh, white towels can elevate the space without overwhelming it, and a couple of decorative touches like potted plants will bring in life and colour.

6. Frame Your Mirror for Extra Charm

If your mirror looks plain or has signs of wear, consider adding a simple frame. A wooden frame—stained or painted to match your bathroom's colour scheme—can instantly add character and complete the look of the space. This small update can make a world of difference in creating a polished, welcoming atmosphere.

Selling your home doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune on expensive renovations. Simple, affordable updates to your bathroom can have a huge impact, improving both its appearance and overall appeal. A little creativity and attention to detail can go a long way in making your bathroom a space that potential buyers will remember.

The Bank of Canada has announced a reduction in its target for the overnight rate to 3%, with the Bank Rate set at 3.25% and the deposit rate at 2.95%. Additionally, the Bank has outlined its plan to finalize the normalization of its balance sheet by ending quantitative tightening. Asset purchases will resume in early March, with a gradual approach to ensure the balance sheet stabilizes before experiencing modest growth in line with economic expansion.

The January Monetary Policy Report (MPR) highlights an increased level of uncertainty in its projections due to the rapidly shifting policy landscape, particularly regarding potential trade tariffs from the new U.S. administration. Because the extent and duration of a possible trade conflict remain uncertain, the report presents a baseline forecast that assumes no new tariffs.

According to the MPR, the global economy is projected to maintain growth at approximately 3% over the next two years. U.S. economic growth has been revised upward, primarily due to stronger consumer spending. In contrast, growth in the eurozone is expected to remain sluggish due to competitiveness challenges. In China, recent policy measures are supporting short-term demand and economic expansion, though structural challenges persist.

Since October, financial conditions have diverged internationally. U.S. bond yields have risen, driven by solid economic growth and persistent inflation. Meanwhile, Canadian bond yields have declined slightly. The Canadian dollar has weakened significantly against the U.S. dollar, largely due to trade uncertainty and overall strength in the U.S. currency. Oil prices have been volatile, rising by about $5 above the levels anticipated in the October MPR.

In Canada, previous interest rate cuts have already started stimulating the economy, and the momentum in consumption and housing activity is expected to continue. However, business investment remains weak, while exports are benefiting from expanded oil and gas export capacity.

The labour market remains soft, with the unemployment rate at 6.7% as of December. While job growth has improved in recent months, it had previously lagged behind labour force expansion for over a year. Wage pressures, which had been persistently high, are now showing early signs of easing.

The Bank anticipates that GDP growth will strengthen in 2025. However, given reduced immigration targets, both actual GDP growth and potential growth are expected to be more moderate than previous forecasts in October. Following an anticipated GDP growth rate of 1.3% in 2024, the Bank now projects GDP growth of 1.8% in both 2025 and 2026—a rate that slightly exceeds potential growth. Consequently, excess supply in the economy is projected to diminish gradually over time.

Inflation remains close to 2%, though fluctuations are occurring due to the temporary suspension of the GST/HST on certain consumer goods. While shelter price inflation remains high, it is gradually declining as anticipated. Various economic indicators, including inflation expectation surveys and price change trends within the CPI, suggest that underlying inflation is stabilizing around 2%. The Bank projects that CPI inflation will remain near its 2% target over the next two years.

Excluding potential U.S. trade tariffs, the economic outlook maintains a relatively balanced level of risks. However, the MPR warns that a prolonged trade dispute could result in lower GDP growth and higher consumer prices in Canada.

Given inflation stabilizing around 2% and an economy operating with excess supply, the Governing Council has decided to cut the policy rate by another 25 basis points to 3%. Since last June, the cumulative rate cuts have been significant. Lower interest rates are already stimulating household spending, and based on today's projections, the economy is expected to gradually strengthen while inflation remains stable. However, if significant trade tariffs were to be implemented, Canada's economic resilience would be put to the test.

The Bank will closely monitor economic developments and assess their impact on inflation and monetary policy. It remains dedicated to maintaining price stability for Canadians.

With the Bank of Canada lowering its policy rate to 3%, now is the time to assess your real estate plans. Whether you're buying, selling, or refinancing, lower rates could open new opportunities. Let’s discuss how this impacts your goals—contact us today!

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!

Mortgage scams are more prevalent than you might think, targeting unsuspecting individuals with promises of financial relief or better loan terms. For many Canadians, their home is their most valuable asset, making it critical to remain vigilant. Mortgage scams can come in many forms, including:

• False promises for better mortgage terms.

• Wire fraud during the closing process, where scammers impersonate legal professionals to redirect payments.

• Reverse mortgage fraud, which drains home equity.

• Loan flipping, where borrowers are pressured into repeatedly refinancing loans so lenders can collect excessive fees.

To safeguard your finances and peace of mind, consider these tips to avoid falling victim to mortgage fraud:

• Research Lenders Thoroughly: Shop around for qualified lenders and verify their credentials on trusted sites like the Better Business Bureau.

• Understand Affordability: Your mortgage payment should ideally range between 28-32% of your gross monthly income. Be cautious of lenders willing to exceed this threshold—it’s a red flag.

• Never Prepay Without a Contract: Only provide payment to a lender once you have a fully executed agreement in writing.

• Guard Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive details, such as banking or personal information, in response to unsolicited offers.

• Read All Documentation Carefully: Take your time to review and understand all documents before signing anything. Consult a professional for clarity if needed.

• Monitor Your Credit Report: Regularly check your credit report to identify unauthorized transactions early.

• Consult Professionals: Be cautious of lenders who discourage you from seeking advice from a financial advisor, lawyer, or real estate professional.

• Watch for High-Pressure Tactics: Legitimate lenders will never bully or rush you into a decision.

A Final Word of Caution

If an offer sounds too good to be true, it almost always is. Scammers often prey on desperation or eagerness, so keep your guard up and trust your instincts. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect your financial future from those who aim to take advantage of it.

A total of 613 homes were sold in December 2024 via the MLS® System of the Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB), representing a 7.9% increase from December 2023.

Despite this rise, home sales were 6.8% below the five-year average and 2.7% lower than the 10-year average for December. Year-to-date sales reached 13,526 units by December 2024, an 11.8% increase from the same period in 2023.

“A year of wait-and-see came to a close with the expected slowdown over the holiday season,” said OREB President Paul Czan. “The latter half of the year brought signs of more favourable market conditions with consecutive interest rate drops, higher insured mortgage limits, and extended amortizations. It’s early to assess the impact of these measures. And it’s an uphill battle against affordability and supply issues that persist.”

“Listing activity indicates that sellers anticipate improved conditions could spur more activity from buyers who have been keeping a close eye on the market but hesitant to make moves. Buyers are still limited in their selection of affordable inventory that can meet current demands, which stalls movement. While the improving market conditions are encouraging, the supply needs to be there. Coming political shifts are adding a layer of uncertainty but there is a trending optimism for more increased market activity in the months ahead.”

By the Numbers – Prices

The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI), which tracks price trends more accurately than average or median prices, highlighted the following:

• The overall MLS® HPI composite benchmark price was $645,800 in December 2024, up 3.8% from December 2023.

  • Single-family homes: $729,300, an increase of 3.7% year-over-year.

  • Townhouse/row units: $533,200, up 11.3% from a year ago.

  • Apartments: $404,400, down 2.5% compared to December 2023.

• The average sale price in December 2024 was $663,781, a 4.4% increase from December 2023.

• Year-to-date, the average price was $679,067, rising 1.3% compared to 2023.

• The total dollar volume of home sales in December 2024 was $406.9 million, up 12.7% year-over-year. For the entire year, the total dollar volume reached $9.2 billion, an increase of 13.3% from 2023.

OREB cautions that while average sale prices offer insight into market trends over time, they do not reflect changes in the value of individual properties. Average price calculations are derived from the total dollar volume of all properties sold, with prices varying significantly by neighbourhood.

By the Numbers – Inventory & New Listings

• New listings: 603 new residential properties were added in December 2024, marking a 13.6% increase from December 2023. This was 3.5% above the five-year average but 2.7% below the 10-year average for December.

• Active listings: Residential listings totalled 3,216 units at the end of December 2024, a surge of 58.7% compared to December 2023. Active listings were 90% above the five-year average and 51.4% above the 10-year average for the month.

• Months of inventory: There were 5.2 months of inventory at the end of December 2024, compared to 3.6 months in December 2023. This metric reflects the time it would take to sell all current inventory at the current sales pace.

In recent years, the Canadian housing market has experienced significant disruptions. A global pandemic, surging interest rates, and economic challenges caused the market to deviate from typical patterns. However, 2025 is anticipated to see a return to conditions more aligned with long-term historical trends.

The Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast projects that the aggregate price of a home in Canada will rise by 6.0% year-over-year, reaching $856,692 in the fourth quarter of 2025. The median price of a single-family detached home is expected to grow by 7.0% to $900,833, while condominiums are forecasted to see a 3.5% increase, reaching $605,993.

“After several years of unusual volatility in the real estate market, key indicators point to a return to stability in 2025. The backlog of willing and able buyers continues to grow, and upcoming changes to mortgage lending rules will further enhance Canadians’ borrowing power,” said Phil Soper, president and chief executive officer, Royal LePage. “Most notably, the Bank of Canada’s shift from ‘inflation fighter’ to ‘economy booster’ has taken time to influence buyer behaviour. We saw a marked increase in market activity at the start of the fourth quarter, following the Bank of Canada’s 50-basis-point rate cut. Buyers now believe home prices have hit bottom and are eager to act before competition intensifies.”

New Lending Rules to Enhance Borrowing Power

New lending regulations taking effect this month will provide improved accessibility for first-time buyers and existing homeowners. Starting December 15th, eligibility for 30-year amortizations on insured mortgages will expand to include all first-time buyers and purchasers of new construction homes, an increase from the current 25-year limit. Additionally, the mortgage insurance cap will rise from $1 million to $1.5 million, enabling buyers with less than a 20% down payment to consider higher-value properties. These changes will be especially impactful in Canada’s most expensive real estate markets, where average home prices often exceed $1 million.

“Improved lending conditions, combined with declining interest rates, will unlock new housing opportunities for many Canadians in the new year. First-time buyers will be the primary beneficiaries of these initiatives, as their ability to borrow more for less with a smaller down payment will help bring them closer to their first home purchase,” said Soper. “We believe the return of buyers to the market will encourage builders and trigger a wave of new supply, which is very much needed.

“Addressing Canada’s critical housing shortage must remain a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. With our population growing rapidly through both natural increases and immigration, it is essential to stay focused on supporting the development of new homes if we hope to address housing affordability, be it for purchase or rent.”

Shifting Political Landscapes and Potential Housing Impacts

The year 2025 is expected to bring political changes in both Canada and the United States, with potential implications for the housing market. In Canada, a federal election may introduce new housing policies that could temporarily influence market activity in the latter half of the year.

“With an election approaching in Ottawa and a new administration preparing to take office in Washington, the housing market faces potential disruptions. Here at home, a federal election will see new housing policies that may temporarily impact market activity in the second half of 2025,” said Soper. “Meanwhile, south of the border, the incoming Trump administration’s trade policies and broader economic agenda have the potential to create ripple effects for Canada’s economy and housing market. While these impacts may take time to unfold, they could eventually affect consumer confidence and market dynamics on both sides of the border.”

Highlights from the 2025 Forecast

• Greater Montreal Area is expected to lead with aggregate home price growth of 6.5%, outpacing Greater Toronto (5.0%) and Vancouver (4.0%).

• Quebec City is forecasted to see the largest increase among major regions, with an 11.0% rise in aggregate home prices, followed by Edmonton and Regina at 9.0%.

• Calgary, along with Ottawa, Halifax, and Winnipeg, is projected to experience a moderate 4.0% home price increase, following significant appreciation over the last two years.

• The median price of a condominium in the Greater Toronto Area is anticipated to decline by 1.0%, reflecting the addition of thousands of new units to an already surplus supply.