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Mortgage rate uncertainty
When it comes to predicting mortgage rates, the only thing Canada’s mortgage experts are certain of right now is that nothing is certain.
The Bank of Canada expects to end quantitative tightening in the first half of this year and return to more normal asset purchasing levels, likely becoming the first major central bank to unwind its pandemic asset purchases.
A regular review of the latest mortgage and real estate news, a recap of key headlines, and a preview of upcoming economic releases.
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. says the total number of housing starts in 2024 rose two per cent compared with 2023, helped by increased starts in Alberta, Quebec and the Atlantic provinces.

The Mortgage Magazine

Interest Rates

Views: 3,417

Whiplash in Canada’s bond market signals rate roller-coaster ahead, experts say

When it comes to predicting mortgage rates, the only thing Canada’s mortgage experts are certain of right now is that nothing is certain.

• One Comment Views: 70,066

Bank of Canada rate hikes in 2026? National Bank thinks so.

Just when Canadians thought Bank of Canada rate hikes were behind us, one major bank is now...

Views: 17,581

60% of Canadian mortgage renewals to face higher rates by 2026: BoC

Despite interest rates having fallen materially in 2024, recent data show that many Canadian...

Views: 1,328

U.S. Fed minutes signal cautious approach to rate cuts, January pause likely

The Federal Open Market Committee’s (FOMC) latest minutes from its December 17-18 meeting reveal...

Mortgage Industry News

Views: 1,306

Mortgage Digest: CREA updates 2025 forecast with higher sales and price growth

A regular review of the latest mortgage and real estate news, a recap of key headlines, and a preview of upcoming economic releases.

Views: 881

Fairstone Bank and Home Trust finalize merger

Fairstone Bank of Canada and Home Trust Company have officially completed their merger, marking a...

Views: 1,550

Bank CEOs see mortgage risk easing as attention turns to political uncertainty

The heads of Canada's biggest banks are finally seeing risks around mortgage renewals easing, only...

Views: 2,215

2024 mortgage market: A year in review

The past year marked a turning point for Canada’s housing and mortgage market, with rate hikes...

Bank of Canada

Views: 1,867

Bank of Canada to end quantitative tightening earlier than expected

The Bank of Canada expects to end quantitative tightening in the first half of this year and return to more normal asset purchasing levels, likely becoming the first major central bank to unwind its pandemic asset purchases.

Views: 5,949

Bank of Canada deliberations reveal ‘close call’ on 50-bps rate cut

The Bank of Canada’s Governing Council faced a “close call” when deciding to proceed with...

Views: 18,004

Bank of Canada cuts rates another 50 bps, bringing more relief to some borrowers

The Bank of Canada has cut its policy rate by another 50 basis points today, bringing it down to...

Views: 5,784

Scotiabank: The Bank of Canada will likely deliver a 50-bps rate cut this week—here’s why it shouldn’t

In a recent analysis, Scotiabank's Derek Holt suggests that the Bank of Canada is likely to...

Real Estate

Views: 548

National home sales finish strong in 2024, as association forecasts rebound this year

The number of homes that changed hands across the country in December was up 19.2% compared with a year earlier, as the Canadian Real Estate Association says a strong fourth quarter bodes well for a rebound in sales in 2025.

Views: 1,677

Average rents across Canada fall to lowest level in over a year

The average asking rent across Canada fell to $2,109 in December, marking its lowest point in 17...

Views: 1,518

Housing market poised for 2025 comeback as lower rates unleash pent-up demand

As the calendar flipped one year ago, Canadian real estate watchers were optimistic a sluggish 2023...

• One Comment Views: 94,168

Housing and interest rate forecasts for 2025

As we reflect on 2024, it was a year of resilience and adjustment for Canada’s housing and...

Economic news

Views: 195

CMHC says total housing starts in 2024 up 2% from 2023

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. says the total number of housing starts in 2024 rose two per cent compared with 2023, helped by increased starts in Alberta, Quebec and the Atlantic provinces.

Economic news

Views: 438

U.S. core inflation eases, but Fed rate cut this month remains unlikely

U.S. inflation rose for the second straight month, though core inflation showed modest signs of easing. Still, economists say it likely won’t be enough to warrant a Fed rate cut later this month.

Economic news

Views: 1,229

Canada’s home renovation costs are still climbing, but the pace is slowing

Home reno costs in Canada continued to climb in Q3, driven by higher roofing and window expenses, with many homeowners relying on their home equity to fund these projects.

Economic news

Views: 2,204

Strong job growth in December raises doubts about January rate cut

As Canada’s job market surged in December, economists are now questioning whether the Bank of Canada will move forward with another rate cut this month.

Government and RegulationMortgage Industry News

Views: 10,111

EXCLUSIVE: BMO brings back OSFI’s stress test for uninsured mortgage switches

The excitement over last month’s removal of the stress test for uninsured mortgage switches may have been short-lived—at least for some bank customers.

Government and Regulation

Views: 325

OSFI holds domestic stability buffer at 3.5%, cites stable but lingering risks

Canada’s banking regulator announced no change to the amount of capital banks must keep on hand to cover potential future losses.

Government and Regulation

Views: 206

Liberal Housing Minister Sean Fraser says he won’t seek re-election

Housing Minister Sean Fraser says he will not be running in the next federal election, citing family reasons.

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Keep up with Canadian Mortgage Trends by following us on our social media channels such as Facebook, X and LinkedIn. 

Quarterly Earnings

Views: 1,019

BMO’s loan loss provisions surge in Q4, but execs say credit strain appears to have peaked

BMO’s credit performance worsened more than expected, contributing to a 15% year-over-year decline in adjusted full-year earnings.

Quarterly Earnings

Views: 1,311

Despite tough quarter, TD sees year-over-year market share gains in mortgage lending

Despite ongoing anti-money laundering (AML) remediation efforts, TD Bank saw growth in its mortgage lending business in Q4, with year-over-year market share gains.

Quarterly Earnings

Views: 36,895

Some mortgage borrowers renewing in 2025 to face an average $513 monthly payment increase: RBC

RBC also reported a sharp drop in remaining amortization periods thanks to Bank of Canada rate cuts in the fourth quarter.

Quarterly Earnings

• One Comment Views: 2,358

Scotiabank sees rise in mortgage arrears but remains optimistic about renewals

In its fourth-quarter earnings call, the bank said higher-for-longer interest rates and elevated unemployment levels have put stress on some aspects of its portfolio.

Mortgage Tech News

Views: 1,228

Cautious optimism: How brokers should be approaching AI 

As a mortgage broker, it seems that no matter where you go—you can’t escape the AI buzz.

Mortgage Tech News

Views: 890

New platform supports mortgage brokers with mentorship and mental health strategies

New platform aims to bridge the gap for new mortgage brokers with mentorship, business guidance, and mental health strategies

Mortgage Tech News

• 2 Comments Views: 7,065

Fastkey facilitates quick and secure CRA document access for lenders and brokers

Emerging fintech Fastkey revolutionizes the mortgage and loan application process, providing lenders and brokers with efficient and secure access to vital CRA documents.

Mortgage Tech News

• 9 Comments Views: 571

Bloom unveils new home equity prepaid Mastercard as novel way for seniors to fund retirement

A first-of-its-kind product by Toronto-based Bloom Financial is offering an innovative solution for seniors struggling to fund their retirement in the face of rising costs.

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Views: 184

How mortgage brokers can capitalize on the popularity of text messaging

A full 90% of young people between the ages of 18 and 29 favour text messaging as their primary...

Views: 204

Unleashing the power of LinkedIn: essential strategies and hidden gems for mortgage professionals

In today's digital age, LinkedIn has become a powerful tool for professionals across industries to...

• One Comment Views: 230

Creating engaging mortgage content: how to build trust and authority for your clients

Brokers need to be well-informed about market trends, interest rates, policy changes, and economic...

Views: 448

What you need to know about FSRA’s new licensing requirements for private mortgages

New licensing categories are now in effect for all Ontario brokers and agents starting in April....

Views: 226

How mortgage brokers can unlock the power of personal video messages

It's important to find ways to connect with potential clients and build trust. By recording a video...

Views: 132

‘Business for self’ clients are on the rise. How do you secure a mortgage for one?

Roughly 2.9 million Canadians were self-employed in 2018, according to Statistics Canada, and many...

• One Comment Views: 3,790

Pre-construction purchases: Beware of closing day surprises

Recently, we helped a couple navigate the process of buying a pre-construction condo townhome....

Views: 2,470

New year, better mortgage rates: Credit tips to get you there

As we step into a new year, it’s a great time to reassess your financial habits and ensure your...

Views: 1,434

A First Home Savings Account should be on every first-time buyer’s holiday wish list

Introduced in April 2023, the First Home Savings Account (FHSA) is a game-changer for Canadians...

Views: 2,608

Thinking of gifting a down payment this holiday season? Here’s what you should know

With the holiday season in full swing, many Canadians are focused on gift giving. For some, that...

Views: 1,124

Helping retired Canadians navigate financial challenges: A solution for brokers

Retirement is often considered a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of decades of hard work....

• One Comment Views: 6,094

Pros and cons of a 10-year fixed mortgage: Is stability worth the cost?

The 10-year mortgage has long been a niche product in the Canadian mortgage market....

Mortgage InterviewsSponsored post

Views: 239

From tragedy to triumph: Donna MacDonald’s journey to financial leadership

Mortgage broker Donna MacDonald’s journey from tragedy to triumph is a story of resilience and reinvention.

Mortgage InterviewsSponsored post

Views: 201

Manulife One’s modern innovation meets Nick L’Ecuyer’s old school charm

There are fewer places left where Canadians can get holistic mortgage and financial advice from a familiar member of the local community. Thanks to mortgage broker Nick L’Ecuyer, Simcoe County is one of them.

Mortgage InterviewsSponsored post

Views: 176

From hopeless to homeowners: how Lisa Holly is changing lives with tailored mortgage solutions

For Lisa Holly, sales achievements don’t define her success. Helping people in ways that make a difference is what really matters to the London, Ontario-based mortgage broker—especially with clients other brokers couldn’t assist.

Mortgage Interviews

Views: 179

Navigating to the top: women leaders in the mortgage and real estate industries share their stories

In a field traditionally dominated by men, a shift is underway within the offices of Canada’s mortgage and real estate industries. Women are now stepping into the limelight, assuming leadership roles and reshaping industry norms.

Mortgage StrategiesSponsored post

Views: 1,124

Helping retired Canadians navigate financial challenges: A solution for brokers

Retirement is often considered a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of decades of hard work. However, for a growing number of Canadians 55 and older, this picture is clouded by financial uncertainty.

Mortgage Industry NewsSponsored post

Views: 1,311

Manulife’s Natasha Duric: A 30-year mortgage career built on leadership and innovation

Natasha Duric describes her entry into the mortgage industry as “a fluke.”

Mortgage StrategiesSponsored post

Views: 1,005

Unlocking the secrets to growing your business with the 55+ demographic

In today’s competitive market, mortgage brokers are continuously seeking ways to diversify and grow their client base.

Sponsored post

Views: 1,787

Mortgage brokers: Are you asking the right questions when choosing a mortgage brokerage?

As a mortgage broker, you negotiate tirelessly to secure the best rates and terms for your clients. But have you applied the same diligence to selecting your brokerage?

Views: 914

New year, new budget: A step-by-step guide on how to refresh your finances

A simple copy and paste of your 2024 budget isn't enough to help you achieve your goals and...

Views: 130

Unwanted gift card in your stocking? Don’t let it go to waste

Gift cards can be a quick and easy present for those who don't know what to buy and offer the...

Views: 638

The GST tax holiday is coming but will the savings actually make a difference?

While many Canadians highly anticipate the federal government's upcoming GST holiday, experts say...

Views: 711

Retiring? Here’s how to switch from saving for your golden years to spending

The last paycheque from a decades-long career arrives next Friday and the nest egg you built during...

Views: 3,392

What you need to know before helping your child with a home down payment

With the benchmark prices for a home in Toronto or Vancouver at over a million dollars, the...

Views: 732

Boundaries, communication are key for parents running the Bank of Mom and Dad

In a world of sky-high home prices and rising cost of living, many parents are inclined to...

Views: 1,066

Balancing business and life: New Year’s resolutions for mortgage brokers

A new year is upon us, and for many in the brokering world that means new goals, new targets and...

• 3 Comments Views: 18,909

Fed minutes spark market turmoil: Making sense of it and why Canadian mortgage rates are likely to rise

I thought it would be really hard to top Monday’s chaotic events in Parliament, but it looks...

• 5 Comments Views: 20,986

Pros and cons of the new federal secondary suite programs

Comparing two federal programs to help Canadians build rental suites: a $40,000 loan or a mortgage...

Views: 4,408

Weeks of cuts give way to mortgage rate hikes as U.S. job numbers soar

While everyone has been enjoying some amazing fall weather, the temperature isn't the only thing...

• 5 Comments Views: 2,004

Forget the comparisons: success in brokering comes in many forms

I am tired of being told I am doing it wrong....

Views: 4,004

Challenges and opportunities for mortgage brokers in the current rate cycle

The current rate environment presents new hurdles for mortgage brokers while also opening up...

Regional News

Regional

Views: 316

Toronto’s proposed 2025 budget includes 6.9 per cent property tax increase

The City of Toronto is proposing to increase property taxes by 6.9% this year to help fund its $18.8 billion operating budget for 2025.

Regional

Views: 449

Strong finish for Ottawa’s real estate market in 2024

Ottawa’s real estate market wrapped up 2024 with a solid uptick in activity, as December home sales rose 7.9% year-over-year.

Regional

Views: 388

Greater Toronto home sales dip in December to cap ‘transitionary’ 2024: board

Greater Toronto home sales fell slightly last month to cap a year that saw buyers take advantage of “substantial negotiating power” on price.

Regional

Views: 491

Montreal home sales surge 54% in December as market momentum builds

Home sales in the Montreal region kept climbing in December, with 54.1% more properties changing hands compared to the same time last year, according to the Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers.

Regional

Views: 172

Workers helping the homeless in Montreal feel powerless as crisis deepens

Social workers on the front lines of homelessness in Montreal say they feel increasingly powerless as more people find themselves forced to live in tents during the winter.

Real EstateRegional

Views: 687

Montreal home sales jump 47% in November while prices rose across all property types

Along with the surge in activity, Montreal also saw average single-family home prices rise by 11% compared to last year.

Regional

Views: 407

Impact of Trump tariffs on Metro Vancouver real estate likely short-lived: report

A residential market sales forecast by Greater Vancouver Realtors says the impact of possible tariffs from the United States would likely be short-lived. 

Regional

Views: 623

Uptick in Vancouver home sales last month caps ‘pivot year’ for market: board

Greater Vancouver home sales rose 31.2% on a year-over-year basis in December, capping a “pivot year” for the market that saw the number of homes changing hands in the region tick higher.

Regional

Views: 227

B.C. property values flat across most of province, but affordability remains elusive

British Columbia’s latest property assessments show values remain generally flat compared to the previous year, but researchers warn the numbers don’t herald housing affordability in the famously expensive province.

Regional

Views: 208

The Manitoba government is buying properties as part of homelessness plan

The Manitoba government is buying apartment buildings and plans to start clearing encampments next month as part of its long-term strategy to reduce homelessness.

Regional

Views: 306

Saskatchewan town sees flurry of construction with $30K housing cheque program

An official with a town in southeastern Saskatchewan says its plan to offer $30,000 cheques to anyone building homes in the community is paying off. 

Regional

Views: 296

Calgary home sales down in December but still above long-term trends: board

Calgary home sales declined in December from the previous year’s levels but remained nearly 20% higher than long-term trends.

Regional

Views: 111

Halifax mayor says city is past the worst of its housing crisis, advocates disagree

The worst of Halifax’s homeless crisis is over, says the city’s new mayor, who wants to see encampments closed as quickly as possible — even as homelessness advocates vigorously disagree that the situation is improving.

Regional

Views: 204

3 in 10 residential property buyers in N.S. were investors in 2018-2020: StatCan

Statistics Canada says investors represented three in 10 residential property buyers in Nova Scotia between 2018 and 2020 — the highest volume of such buyers among provinces where data is available.

Regional

Views: 123

N.S. Tories seek ‘fresh’ mandate in Tuesday’s election to negotiate with Ottawa

Progressive Conservative Leader Tim Houston says if he’s given a second mandate in Tuesday’s election, it will strengthen his position to fight Ottawa on key issues impacting the province, including carbon pricing.

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