Mid-Year Market Update for 2024: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know   Once again, the number one story in real estate this summer is mortgage rates. But unlike last year, when a surprise series of rate hikes from the Bank of Canada sent skittish buyers back to the sidelines, all signs now point to the opposite scenario. Instead of market-chilling rate hikes, economists now expect market-quickening rate cuts—possibly starting as soon as this month.1  That means the... [read more]

35 Tips to Furnish Your New Home for Less   Buying a new home is one of the most exciting experiences in life. And if you’re like most homebuyers, you’ll be planning your furniture placement and decor before the ink dries on your offer letter. But before you run to the nearest home goods store, take a deep breath. First, you’ll need to delay any major purchases before you close on your new home. A large outlay or additional line of credit could affect your... [read more]

Downsize Your Home, Rightsize Your Life: How to Choose the Ideal Smaller Home   When you've lived somewhere for many years, it can be tough to say goodbye. But if you (or a loved one) currently have a home that is bigger than necessary or is too high maintenance, it may be time to trade unused square footage for a smaller, more manageable space.  Take it from the downsizers who’ve been there: Although living small might require some adjustments, it can also... [read more]

Income Properties Are Trending, But Is Landlord Life for You?   If the thought of investing your money into brick and mortar—or perhaps some stylishly-painted siding—excites you, join the club.  Investing in real estate has long been one of Canadians' favourite ways to grow their wealth. According to a poll by CIBC, 15% of Canadian homeowners already earn some rental income, while another 11% aspire to it. What's more, over a third of current... [read more]

GREATER TORONTO AREA HOME SALES AND LISTINGS DROP IN FEBRUARY 2023 Uptick in Home buying Expected Later This Year February sales in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) were down substantially from the pre-rate hike levels of early 2022. However, the number of new listings also dropped substantially year-over-year. The result was that the average selling price and MLS® HPI continued to level off after trending lower through the spring and summer of last year. “It has been... [read more]