TAVERNA REAL ESTATE GROUP : Blog : Latest Blog Posts

How to get your home Halloween ready

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:39:35 GMT

No matter your age, Halloween can be one of the most playful, spirited (and spooky!) times of the year. It only occurs once every 365 days, so why not make the most of it and step into some festive fall fun?! We’ve rounded up five of our favourite, most memorable ways to celebrate the season – from adorning your home with hauntingly boo-tiful holiday decor, to indulging in devilishly decadent Halloween-inspired recipes.

The countdown to October 31st is already on. Here are our ghoul-proof ideas to ensure a spooktacular Halloween that is all treat… and no trick!

Decorate with drama: Spook up your home indoors and out with chic Halloween decor that reflects your personal style. Stick to a colour palette for your decorations, incorporating only a few shades, to maintain a cohesive seasonal look. Don’t be afraid to shy away from orange and black – pastels, metallics, and rich autumn hues also make for tasteful and modern Halloween decor colours.

Make your home an Instagram-worthy backdrop: Who said costumes are only for children? Take things a step further and snap ultra-Instagrammable photos all night by tailoring your Halloween home decor to match your ensemble. Give yourself spirit points by coordinating costumes with friends, family, or even your pet! Explore your imaginative side and get fully into character with funky wigs, exaggerated makeup, and thoughtfully-paired accessories to really bring your costume to life.

Get crafty: We can’t think of a better way to get into the Halloween spirit than rolling up your creative sleeves with the kiddos for home decor DIY magic. Check out Pinterest for pumpkin masterpiece inspiration, add some flair to your front door by designing a frighteningly stylish Halloween wreath, or craft up a seasonal holiday countdown calendar. There’s a fun and festive project for every family member to enjoy and bond over.

Spook your entertainment space: You saw this one coming! Halloween and scary movie marathons go hand-in-hand. How about a costume party? Get your space ready with a generous stash of tasty seasonal treats, plush flannel blankets to snuggle up in, and your favorite pals to survive a hauntingly good night! Elevate the cozy factor with aromatic autumn candles – mahogany teakwood, vanilla pumpkin swirl, and luscious amber are fa-boo-lous fall scents that bring richness and warmth to any space.

Make it sweet: Is it ever really a celebration without holiday-themed snacks? Be the “ghostess” with the mostest this year and whip up some heavenly Halloween-inspired desserts that are scary-good. From haunted gingerbread houses and drool-worthy pumpkin cheesecakes, to candy corn caramel apples and bat-shaped peanut butter cookies, there’s no better excuse than Halloween to surrender to your sugar cravings and dive into some wickedly delicious seasonal baking.

The homeowner’s checklist for fall

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:37:15 GMT

Is your property ready for the cold weather ahead?

Before the cold weather sets in, make sure your home is winter-ready. Be sure to check these important tasks off your list.

Clear leaves and debris from your eavestroughs to avoid clogging
Winterize landscaping and remove leaves your lawn, as this can lead to rotting in the spring
Drain and shut off all outdoor water supplies, including garden hoses, sprinkler systems and outdoor taps
Seal your doors and windows with caulking or weather stripping to limit the amount of cold air that comes and hot air that can escape
Clean and cover your air conditioning unit to protect it from snow and ice. This will help to increase the lifespan of your unit
Clean and inspect your furnace, gas fireplace and dryer vents to avoid fires when the heat is turned on in the winter. And, don’t forget to replace old filters
Cover your outdoor equipment and patio furniture to protect it from the elements
If you have a working fireplace, clean and inspect your chimney before the first use of the season
Seal cracks in your driveway to prevent water from seeping in, freezing and expanding
Test your snowblower and other winter equipment in advance
Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and test them to ensure they are working properly
Check your fire extinguishers and replace them if they’ve expired

Decorate your home with ease this fall

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:35:39 GMT

Fall is a beautiful time of year. As the leaves change colour, pumpkin patches open, and people enjoy spiced lattes and sweater weather, it’s only fitting to add a little fall flair to your home as well. And, seasonal décor doesn’t have to be difficult or break the bank.

Just in time for the Thanksgiving long weekend, here are some simple tips to warm up your home and a touch of autumn to your style:

Warm up your front entrance

Adorn the front of your home with fall-inspired welcome mats, wooden crates, and squash in various shapes and sizes. The beauty of fall is that there is no symmetry needed. Scatter different sized boxes, fall signs and a mix of small and large decorative pumpkins (real or fake). Hang a fall wreath made of twigs, and add a brown, orange or burgundy ribbon for a pop of colour.

Decorate your dining space

Beautify your home indoors with orange and earthy tones. Add a table runner, some coloured napkins on the table, and coordinating candles in the scents of the season. You can elevate your seasonal look with small squashes and gourds as centerpieces. And, don’t be afraid to bring the outside in… Design your own table arrangement with twigs, leaves and pine cones you collect.

Add a cookie and coffee station

Nothing says fall like warm beverages and treats while enjoying the crisp air! Impress your guests with a coffee and tea station. Set up cups, specialty teas displayed in a glass bottle, hot coffee and flavoured syrups in a section of your dining room or kitchen. Use risers or wooden trays to give the display some complexity. Add a cookie jar or cake stand with some fall goodies such as butter tarts, chocolate chip cookies, or brownies. You can also have a seasonal fruit basket with apples and pears.

Make it cozy

Celebrate fall with comfort by adding aromatic autumn candles… Think cinnamon, vanilla, pumpkin spice scents. Light them in the evenings for ambiance. Add fall-themed throw cushions, and add an earthy-toned warm blanket on your couch (check out Pinterest for inspiration on how to arrange pillows and blankets).

These simple tricks can elevate your home decor and make it feel as warm as your pumpkin or apple pie this season!

September Market Stats

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:33:00 GMT

Apartments lead sales downward

Home sales registered on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver* declined 8.4 per cent relative to September last year, weighed down by the apartment segment.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 1,717 in September 2026, an 8.4 per cent decrease from the 1,875 sales recorded in September 2025. This was 25 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,289).

“While sales were down about eight per cent overall in September, this figure hides the fact the weakness is contained to the sizeable apartment segment, which typically accounted for half of sales in any given month in recent years,” said Andrew Lis, GVR chief economist and vice-president data analytics. “By contrast, sales of attached and detached homes finished slightly up from last September, consistent with our view that end-users are primarily driving the market, as investor-driven demand awaits more favourable market conditions.”

There were 5,852 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in September 2026. This represents a 10.3 per cent decrease compared to the 6,527 properties listed in September 2025. This was 5.7 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (5,537).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 16,394, a four per cent decrease compared to September 2025 (17,079). This is 24.3 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (13,186).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for September 2026 is 10.9 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 9.7 per cent for detached homes, 12.2 per cent for attached, and 11.4 per cent for apartments.

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“The combination of slow sales and inventory trending lower has kept home prices from declining too swiftly, with the composite price index drifting down 0.5 percent month –over-month,” Lis said. “While small month-over-month changes may not appear significant individually, the cumulative effect of many small changes has become more pronounced over time, with all market segments now showing price declines of about three per cent since the start of the year.”

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,075,900. This represents a 5.5 per cent decrease over September 2025 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to August 2026.

Sales of detached homes in September 2026 reached 575, a 4.2 per cent increase from the 552 detached sales recorded in September 2025. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,784,700. This represents a 7.3 per cent decrease from September 2025 and a 0.8 per cent decrease compared to August 2026.

Sales of apartment homes reached 777 in September 2026, a 18.6 per cent decrease compared to the 954 sales in September 2025. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $682,500. This represents a 6.2 per cent decrease from September 2025 and a 0.5 per cent decrease compared to August 2026.

Attached home sales in September 2026 totalled 358, a 0.6 per cent increase compared to the 356 sales in September 2025. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,016,700. This represents a 4.7 per cent decrease from September 2025 and a 1.2 per cent decrease compared to August 2026.

Download GVR's September 2026 MLS® Residential Market Report.

Bank of Canada holds overnight rate at 2.25% as trade uncertainty escalates

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:27:41 GMT

No changes to the overnight rate for the seventh consecutive decision

In its sixth scheduled announcement of 2026, the Bank of Canada held the target for the overnight lending rate at 2.25%. This marks the seventh consecutive hold to interest rates since the Bank’s last cut in October 2025.

Canada’s economy strengthened in the second quarter, rebounding from weaker growth earlier in the year as consumer spending increased and housing market activity improved. However, escalating trade tensions are creating new risks for the economic outlook. In recent weeks, deteriorating trade negotiations with the United States have resulted in new tariffs and corresponding Canadian counter-tariffs, adding uncertainty to both growth and inflation. At the same time, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to put upward pressure on energy prices.

“Since our last decision, inflation and growth in Canada have evolved broadly as forecast. Against that background we decided to leave the policy rate unchanged. However, the upside risks to inflation have increased, while new tariffs make growth prospects more uncertain,” said Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, in a press conference following the announcement. “Governing Council will assess the sustainability of the economic rebound and the outlook for inflation, and is prepared to adjust monetary policy as needed. The Bank remains committed to maintaining Canadians’ confidence in price stability through this period of global upheaval.”

In July, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 3.0% year over year, up from 2.8% in June.1 Gasoline prices remained the largest contributor to the increase, continuing a trend that began following the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. So far, however, these inflationary pressures have remained largely concentrated in energy rather than spreading broadly across goods and services, suggesting underlying inflation remains relatively contained. Still, the Bank cautioned that the risks of broader price pressures have increased.

“The longer oil prices and refinery margins stay high, the greater the risk that higher energy prices spill over and turn into persistent inflation. In addition, the new US tariffs and the Canadian counter-tariffs could add costs for some businesses and feed into consumer prices over time,” said Macklem. “Monetary policy cannot offset the effects of tariffs or influence global energy prices. What we can do is ensure global developments don’t jeopardize price stability in Canada.”

Stable overnight rate offers a measure of stability for mortgage holders

With the overnight rate remaining at 2.25%, Canadians obtaining or renewing a mortgage continue to benefit from a relatively stable interest rate environment. This may be particularly welcome for borrowers who secured mortgages during the pandemic-era period of historically low interest rates and are now approaching renewal.

According to the Royal LePage 2026 Mortgage Renewal Survey, conducted by Burson, 38% of Canadians with a mortgage on their primary residence expect their monthly mortgage payment to increase upon renewal, with 26% anticipating a slight increase and 12% expecting a significant jump.

Homeowners who last renewed their mortgage when interest rates were at historic lows are the most likely to expect an increase in their monthly payment at their next renewal. The Bank of Canada’s overnight lending rate stood at just 0.25% in 2021 before rising to 4.25% by the end of 2022.

“The pandemic-triggered era of ultra-low rates came to an abrupt halt in early 2022, having lasted less than two years. While many Canadians who secured record-low mortgages during this period have already navigated their renewals, the final major group of rock-bottom rate holders are up for renewal, and understandably, they are concerned,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage.

“What we are finding in practice is that families are managing the transition. Borrowing rates have retreated significantly from their post-pandemic peaks, while salaries and wages have continued to appreciate. While some households are adjusting discretionary spending to accommodate higher monthly mortgage payments, the widespread default crisis many feared simply hasn’t materialized – a testament in large part to Canada’s prudent lending standards.”

According to the survey, 70% of mortgage holders currently have a fixed-rate mortgage, while 29% have a variable-rate mortgage. At renewal, 43% plan to choose a fixed rate, 16% intend to select a variable rate, and 39% say they will review their options before making a decision. While nearly half of respondents (49%) expect to remain with their current lender, 44% plan to compare lenders before deciding.

The Bank of Canada will make its next interest rate announcement on October 28th, 2026.

Read the full September 2nd report here. Want to know more about how the overnight lending rate works? Read our explainer on how the Bank of Canada uses this financial tool.

Mortgage before marriage? Canadians are prioritizing home ownership over wedding day celebrations

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:21:45 GMT

82% of respondents say they would scale back or forgo a wedding to put money toward a down payment on a home

With the rising cost of living continuing to reshape financial priorities, more Canadians are rethinking the traditional “dream wedding” in favour of a different long-term goal: home ownership. From smaller guest lists and backyard ceremonies, to courthouse weddings and delayed honeymoons, couples are making bigger sacrifices to help get a foot on the property ladder.

According to a recent Royal LePage survey, conducted by Burson,1 79% of respondents who are planning a wedding, or who have someone in their life who is, say they would consider requesting money for a down payment on a home instead of a traditional wedding gift (37% say definitely, and 42% say maybe). Of those respondents who are already married, 57% say they would have liked to request money for a down payment on a home instead of a wedding gift; 10% say they did in fact request money for their wedding.

“Few milestones carry more weight than buying a home or getting married. As the cost of living puts pressure on household budgets across the country, more Canadians are finding themselves having to make difficult trade-offs between the two – and in many cases, it’s the wedding that gets scaled back,” said Anne-Elise Cugliari Allegritti, vice president of research and communications, Royal LePage.

“There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question ‘rings or real estate?’. Every couple is different, and so are the circumstances under which they navigate these important life events. However, rising living costs – extending well beyond housing alone – are causing many Canadians to reassess how they prioritize major celebrations and long-term financial goals,” she noted. “In the past, tradition may have dictated first marriage, then mortgage. Today, many couples are having to balance their desire for a once-in-a-lifetime wedding celebration with the reality of building equity and securing their financial future. For some, that means prioritizing getting into the housing market before walking down the aisle. Many people are recognizing that while a wedding is a beautiful one- or two-day event, a home is a lifetime investment.”

Saying “I do” to home ownership first

When asked if they would forgo or significantly scale back a wedding to put money towards a down payment on a home, 46% of respondents across Canada say definitely; 36% say maybe. When thinking back to their own wedding, over half (55%) of married respondents say they would have forgone or significantly scaled back a wedding to put money towards a down payment on a home.

According to The Knot’s 2025 Global Wedding Report, the average wedding costs approximately $33,000 USD, before a honeymoon or wedding rings (more than $45,000 CAD).2

“With weddings, couples have more options when it comes to lowering costs – trimming the guest list, choosing a more modest venue, or cutting back on extravagant extras. Housing offers less flexibility, without compromising on size or location. As a result, some couples are choosing to trade the champagne toasts for a sizable down payment because they know that while you can always throw a party later, you may not always be able to find your forever home at today’s prices.”

Other interesting highlights from the survey:

Respondents in British Columbia are the most likely to request financial contributions toward a down payment in place of other wedding gifts.
Those in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Quebec are less likely than the average Canadian to request money towards a home as a wedding gift.
When asked to identify the biggest or most important purchase in a person’s life, 83% of respondents said a home.

Read the full press release and review the data chart for more details:

PRESS RELEASE

DATA CHART

Buying your first marital home? Check out these helpful articles:

Paint colours that attract homebuyers (and the ones that don’t)

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:20:16 GMT

When preparing a property for sale, paint colour is often underestimated as a strategic decision. According to home staging professionals and interior design experts, the right colour choices can meaningfully increase buyer interest and perceived value, while poorly chosen shades can deter buyers before they ever step through the door.

Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing paint colours to help your home sell.

The limits of the all-white approach

For years, the prevailing wisdom in real estate staging was to paint everything white, creating a neutral backdrop that would appeal to the widest possible audience. While white creates a clean look, too much of it can feel sterile, and adding warm elements is often necessary to prevent a space from reading as cold. Today’s buyers are drawn to spaces that feel warm and thoughtfully styled, not clinically bare.

Dark, nature-inspired tones consistently outperform lighter palettes when it comes to perceived value.

Olive green is among the strongest performers when it comes to interior colours. Design experts describe olive green as timeless and grounding, creating a sense of calm sophistication that manages to feel both modern and natural. It performs particularly well in kitchens, where it resonates strongly with buyers looking for a space that feels elevated.

Charcoal grey is a reliable choice for main living areas. Where deeper tones are appropriate, charcoal grey creates a sense of sophistication that buyers respond to positively, and it pairs well with a wide range of furnishing styles.

Medium brown is particularly effective in bathrooms, where mid-tone warm tones create a spa-like atmosphere well aligned with current design trends.

Deep tones overall are gaining ground with today’s buyers. Homes with neutral, cohesive colour schemes tend to sell faster and at higher prices, as buyers generally prefer a clean canvas they can personalize over time. Within that framework, deeper shades of green, blue, and grey outperform both stark white and overly muted pastels.

Biophilic design is a leading trend as well, with the majority of staging and design experts citing the integration of nature into interior design as a top priority for buyer appeal. This reinforces the shift toward earthy, grounded palettes over cool, synthetic-feeling neutrals.

Interior colours to avoid

Saturated, primary colours present the greatest risk to perceived value. Bold colours can be overwhelming, limit buyer imagination, and make spaces feel smaller or outdated. They tend to distract buyers from a home’s architectural features and signal the need for repainting, which many buyers would prefer to avoid.

Exterior and front door considerations

The front door warrants its own analysis, as the colour principles that apply indoors often work differently on the exterior. Buyers consistently value homes that feel welcoming and well maintained, and a staging colour palette that conveys care and attention to detail aligns with broader paint trends, emphasizing balance and a connection to nature.

Colours to avoid on the front door:

Overly saturated or flat tones consistently underperform with buyers. The market is moving away from options that feel either too bold or too flat, as neither creates the strong first impression buyers respond to. Flat or cement-toned greys in particular tend to signal a lack of warmth at the entry, which sets the wrong tone before a buyer even steps inside.

Front door colours that perform well:

Black remains one of the strongest performers for curb appeal. A black front door against a lighter exterior creates high-impact contrast that draws the eye to the home’s best features and is broadly associated with a well-maintained, sophisticated property.

Deep greens and navy are the standout directions for 2026. Across exterior design forecasts, muted greens such as olive, eucalyptus, and deep forest tones are among the most recommended front door colours, with designers describing this shift as part of a broader move toward nature-rooted palettes that feel timeless rather than trend-driven.

Across major paint brand forecasts for 2026, a clear theme emerges: comfort, quiet luxury, and a return to nature, with soft whites, grounded neutrals, forest-inspired greens, and rich browns leading the way for both interior and exterior applications.

Key takeaway

The central insight from staging professionals and design experts is that interior and exterior colour strategies call for different approaches. Deep, atmospheric tones perform well in living spaces, creating warmth and sophistication that buyers respond to positively. On the exterior, high-contrast, nature-rooted choices such as black, deep green, or navy consistently drive stronger buyer interest, while flat or overly muted tones underperform.

For sellers, the practical implication is straightforward. A fresh coat of paint remains one of the most cost-effective pre-listing investments available, and choosing the right colour is simply a matter of understanding what today’s buyers are looking for.

How to stage your home to appeal to family buyers

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:18:32 GMT

Families are one of the most motivated buyer groups in the real estate market. They tend to know what they are looking for, they are often working against a school-year deadline, and when they find the right home, they move quickly. Staging your home with this buyer in mind is less about creating a showroom and more about helping them envision a life there, one that works for a busy household with children, schedules, and a lot of gear.

Here is how to do it well.

Understand what family buyers are looking for

Before you start rearranging furniture or repainting rooms, it helps to understand the priorities of the buyer you are trying to attract. Families tend to look for:

A functional, flexible space that can accommodate different ages and stages
Storage, and lots of it
A safe, practical layout with minimal hazards for young children
Proximity to schools, parks, and community amenities
A yard or outdoor space where children can play
A kitchen that can handle real family life, not just dinner parties

Your staging decisions should speak directly to these needs. Every room should answer the question: does this work for a family?

Start at the front door

The entryway is one of the hardest-working spaces in a family home. It is where backpacks, sports equipment, strollers and groceries all converge. For family buyers, the entry or mudroom is one of the first indicators of how well a home will function day to day. If it feels cramped, cluttered or short on storage, buyers immediately start imagining the daily chaos before they have even taken their shoes off.

Clear the entryway completely, then style it to show its potential. A coat rack, a bench with hidden storage, and a row of hooks at child height suggest a home that has thought through the logistics of daily family life. Even if your entry is small, a well-organized one reads as far more functional than a spacious but cluttered one.

Make the kitchen feel like the heart of the home

For families, the kitchen is command central – homework gets done at the island, lunches get packed at the counter, and dinners happen on a schedule. Buyers will scrutinize it accordingly.

Clear counters of everything except a few well-chosen items: a bowl of fresh fruit, a coffee maker, a plant. Remove small appliances that crowd the workspace and make the kitchen feel smaller than it is. Make sure the pantry and cabinets are organized, as buyers will open them, and a chaotic pantry can raise doubts about storage capacity even when there is plenty of it.

If your kitchen has an island or breakfast bar, style it with seating to reinforce how naturally it lends itself to family gathering. A few bar stools and a simple place setting go a long way.

Stage a dedicated children’s space thoughtfully

If your home has a bedroom currently used as a child’s room, keep it staged as a bedroom, not a playroom. A well-made bed, tidy shelves, and contained toys signal that children can live comfortably in the space without it descending into chaos. Pack away the majority of toys and keep one or two displayed neatly.

If you have a playroom or bonus room, stage it to show its versatility. A reading nook, a small table and chairs, and a few baskets of organized toys suggest a room that grows with a family rather than one that only works for a specific age. Family buyers with younger children will see a playroom; those with older children will see a homework room or hobby space.

Show the storage

Storage is one of the top priorities for family buyers, and one of the most commonly overlooked staging opportunities. A home that appears to have ample, well-organized storage is far more appealing than one where buyers are mentally calculating whether their family’s belongings will fit.

Go through every closet, cabinet, and storage space in the home and edit ruthlessly. Remove at least a third of what is currently stored. Organize what remains clearly and neatly. A closet that is two-thirds full looks spacious; one that is packed to the ceiling looks inadequate even if it has the same cubic footage.

If your home has a garage, basement, or utility room, the same principle applies. Buyers will open every door, and a garage that is organized and functional is a genuine selling point for a family.

Stage the backyard as a family space

For many family buyers, the backyard is as important as any room in the house. A safe, functional outdoor space where children can play freely within sight of the kitchen or living room is a significant draw.

Mow and edge the lawn, remove any clutter or debris, and make sure the fence is in good repair. If you have a deck or patio, stage it with outdoor furniture arranged for family use: a dining table large enough for a group, a few comfortable chairs, and perhaps a small play area visible from the seating area. A clean, well-maintained backyard signals that the home has been cared for and that family life can spill outside easily.

If you have a pool, make sure it is clean, the surrounding area is tidy, and any safety equipment is visible and accessible. Families with young children will notice.

Address safety concerns proactively

Family buyers – particularly those with young children – will notice potential safety issues, and concerns raised during a showing can linger long after the visit. A loose railing, steep outdoor steps without a handrail, or a gate that does not latch properly may not affect the value of the home, but they can affect how safe and practical it feels to a family buyer.

Walk through the home with a critical eye before showings begin and address anything that could raise a red flag. It does not need to be a full renovation. Simple fixes like securing a railing, adding non-slip mats, or installing a proper latch on a fence gate take very little time and signal that the home has been well maintained.

Work with your real estate agent

A local real estate professional will know exactly what family buyers in your area are looking for and where your home’s strengths and weaknesses lie relative to the competition. Before investing time and money in staging, talk to your agent about which improvements will have the most impact and which ones buyers in your market are unlikely to notice or value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do family buyers look for in a home? Functional space, ample storage, a safe layout, a yard or outdoor area, and proximity to schools and amenities are typically top priorities. A kitchen that works for real family life and flexible rooms that can adapt as children grow are also strong draws.

Should I stage my child’s bedroom before selling? Yes. Stage it as a proper bedroom rather than a playroom. A made bed, tidy shelves, and a few neatly displayed toys will help buyers see the room’s potential regardless of their children’s ages.

Does a backyard matter to family buyers? Very much so. A safe, well-maintained outdoor space where children can play is a significant selling feature for families. Staging the backyard with outdoor furniture and a tidy lawn is worth the effort.

How much storage do family buyers expect? As much as possible. Edit your storage spaces down to two-thirds capacity before showings so every closet and cabinet looks spacious and well-organized. Storage is one of the most scrutinized features for family buyers.

A 5-step guide to choosing new cabinet hardware

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:16:25 GMT

If you’re looking to modernize dated cabinetry in the kitchen or add your own sense of style to a new-build bathroom, cabinet hardware is a simple and cost-effective update to make your space feel more considered. With so many finishes and styles available, it is helpful to have a plan before you start shopping.

Here are five things to consider when choosing cabinet hardware:

1. Knobs versus pulls

The traditional rule is straightforward: knobs for doors and pulls for drawers. Knobs require less grip and work well on upper cabinets where you are reaching up to open a swinging door. Pulls offer more leverage, making them ideal for heavier lower drawers. For a timeless look, many Canadian homeowners mix both, using knobs on all doors and pulls on all drawers while keeping the finish consistent.

Alternatively, many modern and transitional designs use pulls exclusively for a sleek, uniform aesthetic. Don’t be afraid to break the rules if it suits the layout of your room.

2. Getting the size right

Proportion is key to a polished look. A good starting point for pull length is approximately one-third the width of the drawer front. While two smaller pulls on a wide drawer offer a traditional look, a single, extra-long pull is often more functional for modern drawer glides. For cabinet doors, knobs typically fall between one and one-and-a-half inches in diameter – anything smaller can feel difficult to grasp.

Adopt the “Centre-to-Centre” Rule: If you are replacing existing hardware, measure the distance between the screw holes from centre to centre. In Canada, you will often see these sizes listed in inches, but pay close attention to the millimetres measurement. Most modern cabinetry follows a metric system where 96mm (approx. 3-3/4″), 128mm (approx. 5″), and 160mm (approx. 6-1/4″) are the standards. Matching the metric number is the secret to ensuring your new hardware aligns perfectly with existing holes.

3. Choosing a finish

Some of the most common finishes are brushed nickel, matte black, brass, and bronze. The most important rule is to coordinate with the permanent fixtures you cannot easily change, such as faucets, light fixtures, and hinges.

If you have stainless steel appliances and are feeling stuck, matte black is a versatile choice that complements almost any palette. For those seeking warmth, unlacquered brass has seen a significant resurgence, as it develops a natural patina over time that adds character to both traditional and transitional spaces.

4. Material and longevity

What the hardware is made out of matters as much as the aesthetic. Most budget-friendly hardware is die-cast zinc, which is lightweight and affordable, but more prone to wear over time. Solid brass, while a larger upfront investment, is considerably more durable and holds its finish longer in high-traffic areas like the kitchen. When shopping, check if a product is solid brass or brass-plated. The difference won’t be visible when new, but it will become apparent after years of use.

5. Match the style to the space

Hardware should feel like a natural extension of the room. Traditional cabinetry pairs well with more ornate knobs or classic cup pulls, while flat-panel cabinets suit simple bar pulls with clean lines.

If you are not sure where to start, bring a cabinet door sample or a photo of your room to the hardware store. It is the best way to see how different finishes interact with your cabinet colour. If possible, take a single sample home first; what looks right under bright showroom lights can read differently under the specific lighting of your own home.

Your choice of hardware is a small detail that makes a significant impact on how you experience your home every day. By choosing pieces that reflect your style and meet your functional needs, you are adding a personal, finished touch to the heart of your home.

How to get the most out of your garage

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:14:56 GMT

The best way to get the most out of your garage is to fully clear it out, deep clean it, organize storage vertically along the walls, and commit to parking your car inside every night. Done right, a well-organized garage protects your vehicle from Canada’s harsh winters, reduces clutter, and saves you time every single morning from November through March.

Step 1: Do a Full Garage Cleanout (Budget a Full Weekend)

A garage cleanout takes a full weekend — not one afternoon. Pull everything out of the garage completely, then sort every item into four piles:

Keep – items you use regularly and have a specific place for
Donate – usable items you no longer need
Sell – sellable items for Facebook Marketplace or a garage sale
Trash – broken, expired, or unsalvageable items

Be honest: if something hasn’t been touched in a year or two and you can’t name a specific upcoming use for it, it’s time to let it go.

Step 2: Deep Clean the Empty Garage

With everything out, clean the garage thoroughly before anything goes back in:

Sweep and scrub the floor. Use a concrete degreaser on oil or grease stains.
Wipe down walls and doors.
Inspect weatherstripping around doors and windows — gaps let in cold air and moisture over winter.
Check the garage door mechanism and test that it opens and closes properly.
Replace dead bulbs. Consider upgrading to LED fixtures for better visibility year-round.

Starting fresh with a truly clean space makes organizing far easier.

Step 3: Measure Your Space Before Buying Storage

Before buying any shelving, cabinets, or storage systems, measure your garage carefully:

Map out the floor space your vehicle needs — length, width, and enough clearance on each side to open the doors comfortably.
Treat the remaining wall space and ceiling as your storage area.
Sketch a rough layout before purchasing anything.

Skipping this step is how you end up with shelving units that block a door or eat into your parking space.

Step 4: Build Upward — Use Vertical Storage

The goal is to keep the garage floor clear for your vehicle. The most effective way to do this is to go vertical:

Floor-to-ceiling shelving or wall-mounted cabinets along the perimeter maximize space without reducing parking room.
Clear, lidded bins labelled by category make it easy to find items without digging through stacks.
Pegboards with heavy-duty hooks are ideal for long-handled tools, garden hoses, extension cords, and sports equipment — everything visible, off the floor, and with a designated spot.
Overhead ceiling racks (typically rated for 250–600 lbs) are worth installing for seasonal items that only come down a few times per year, such as holiday decorations or camping gear.

Store frequently used items at accessible heights and move rarely touched items up high.

What Should Not Be Stored in a Garage

Not everything that ends up in a garage belongs there. Here’s what to keep out:

Old paint, solvents, and flammable chemicals – these are hazardous in enclosed spaces and degrade with temperature swings. Check with your local municipality for safe disposal options.
Propane tanks – must be stored outside in a ventilated area, never indoors.
Birdseed, pet food, and unsealed pantry items – these attract mice and other wildlife looking for warmth in winter.
Documents, photographs, and electronics – anything that can be damaged by moisture or cold belongs inside the house. Garages are prone to condensation and temperature fluctuations.

Park Inside Every Night — Especially in Canadian Winters

Committing to parking your car in the garage every night is the habit that holds everything else together. When the centre of the garage is consistently occupied by a vehicle, clutter has nowhere to accumulate.

Beyond organization, parking indoors has real benefits for your car:

Batteries hold their charge better in stable temperatures.
Engines start more cleanly when they haven’t spent the night in freezing cold.
Paint, rubber seals, and trim last longer when not repeatedly cycled through freeze-thaw conditions.
You spend less time scraping ice and clearing snow on dark winter mornings.

A single weekend of work now pays off every morning from November through March.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using Your Garage

How long does it take to organize a garage? A thorough garage cleanout and reorganization takes a full weekend — two solid days at minimum. Trying to rush it into a single afternoon usually results in items being put back without proper sorting.

What is the best way to store tools in a garage? The best way to store tools in a garage is with a pegboard and heavy-duty wall hooks. Pegboards keep tools visible, off the floor, and easy to grab. For power tools and small hand tools, use a labelled cabinet or sturdy shelving unit at waist height.

Can you store paint in a garage in Canada? No. Paint should not be stored in a Canadian garage. Freezing temperatures cause latex and acrylic paint to break down and become unusable. Old paint also poses a fire hazard in enclosed spaces. Store leftover paint indoors, or dispose of it through your municipality’s household hazardous waste program.

Is it bad to leave your car outside in winter in Canada? Yes. Leaving a car outside in Canadian winters accelerates wear on the battery, rubber seals, paint, and engine components due to repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Parking indoors extends the life of these components and eliminates the need for daily ice and snow clearing.

What should you not keep in a garage? You should not keep propane tanks, flammable chemicals, birdseed, pet food, important documents, photographs, or electronics in a garage. These items are either fire hazards, attract pests, or are easily damaged by moisture and temperature changes.

How do you keep a garage organized long-term? The most effective strategy is to park your car inside every night. When the floor is consistently occupied by a vehicle, there is no physical space for clutter to accumulate. Pair this with wall-mounted storage, labelled bins, and an annual spring cleanout to maintain the system.

The emergency preparedness kit every homeowner should have

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:13:23 GMT

Emergency preparedness often feels like a major undertaking, making it easy to postpone. Yet one of the most effective steps homeowners can take requires relatively little time and relies largely on items they already have.

A grab-and-go bag is a compact emergency kit stored in an easily accessible location, containing the essential items you would need if you had to leave your home quickly. Whether the reason is a wildfire evacuation, flood warning, gas leak or another emergency that makes your home temporarily uninhabitable, having these essentials ready can make a stressful situation far more manageable.

Rather than purchasing a pre-packaged kit, consider assembling one yourself using items already available in your home.

Prioritize items that are difficult to replace

The primary purpose of a grab-and-go bag is to protect the documents and information that would be most challenging to recover.

Include photocopies of identification for every member of the household, such as passports, driver’s licences, birth certificates and permanent resident cards. Add your insurance policy number, your insurance broker’s contact information, mortgage or lease documents, a list of current drug prescriptions and dosages, and your veterinarian’s contact information if you have pets.

It is also wise to store digital copies of these documents in a secure cloud service and email a copy to yourself. Printed copies remain valuable in situations where your phone is unavailable or cannot be charged.

Pack essential supplies for several days

While emergency preparedness guidelines often recommend enough supplies for three days, planning for up to a week provides additional flexibility should you be displaced for an extended period.

Your kit should include prescription medications, a written copy of prescriptions, glasses or contact lens supplies, a phone charger, a fully charged power bank, cash in small denominations, a change of clothing, comfortable footwear, basic toiletries and a first aid kit.

Households with children should include a familiar comfort item, such as a favourite toy or book. Pet owners should pack a leash, carrier, food, water bowl and copies of vaccination records, as many emergency shelters require proof of immunization.

Create a visual inventory of your home

One of the most valuable steps homeowners can take for insurance purposes is to document their belongings before an emergency occurs.

Using your phone, record a video walkthrough of your home while describing the contents of each room. Open closets, cupboards and drawers, and capture valuable items along with the serial numbers of major appliances, electronics and tools. Be sure to include storage areas such as the garage, basement and shed.

This simple record can significantly streamline the insurance claims process by providing clear documentation of your belongings. Save the video to a secure cloud service rather than relying solely on your phone.

If you own jewellery, artwork, collectibles or other high-value possessions, speak with your insurance broker to confirm whether they require additional coverage beyond the limits of a standard home insurance policy.

Store your kit where it is easy to access

Keep your emergency kit in a location that can be reached quickly when leaving your home, such as a front hall closet or mudroom. Avoid placing it in storage areas that require moving boxes or accessing difficult spaces such as attics or crawl spaces.

Some households may also benefit from keeping a smaller version of the kit in their vehicle, particularly if they live in rural areas or commute long distances.

Review your kit regularly

A grab-and-go bag should be reviewed at least twice a year to ensure its contents remain current.

A simple way to remember is to inspect the kit when changing the clocks, testing smoke alarms or at the beginning of spring and fall. Replace expired medications, recharge the power bank, update documents as needed and ensure clothing still fits growing children.

Review your insurance coverage before you need it

A grab-and-go bag is only one component of emergency preparedness. It is equally important to understand what your home insurance policy does and does not cover.

For example, many homeowners assume all forms of water damage are automatically included in their policy. In reality, overland flood protection and sewer backup coverage are often optional endorsements, and availability may depend on the property’s location.

A conversation with your insurance broker can help clarify your current coverage and identify any gaps before an emergency occurs.

For evacuation information and emergency alerts, consult your provincial emergency management agency. Homeowners in wildfire-prone areas can also access free preparedness resources and home assessment tools through FireSmart Canada.

Preparing a grab-and-go bag requires only a modest investment of time, but it can make a significant difference during an emergency, allowing you to focus on your family’s safety rather than gathering essential belongings under pressure.

How to make your home more resilient to extreme weather

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:11:31 GMT

When homeowners think about home improvements, updates to kitchens, bathrooms and new flooring often top the list. Yet many of the upgrades that do the most to protect a home’s long-term value are far less visible.

Across Canada, extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and costly. Intense rainfall, flooding, prolonged heat waves, wildfire smoke and severe winter storms are placing increasing pressure on homes and the systems designed to protect them. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), insured losses from severe weather have reached record levels in recent years, with water damage now representing one of the leading causes of home insurance claims.

The encouraging news is that improving a home’s resilience does not necessarily require major renovations. Many of the most effective upgrades are relatively affordable, can be completed over a weekend and provide year-round benefits through improved energy efficiency, lower utility costs and reduced maintenance.

Here are several practical ways to make your home better prepared for whatever the seasons bring.

Protect your home against water damage

Water is responsible for some of the most expensive and disruptive home repairs. While river flooding often receives the most attention, many claims result from heavy rainfall overwhelming drainage systems, sewer backups or water pooling around a home’s foundation.

Improve drainage around your home

The ground surrounding your home should slope away from the foundation to direct rainwater away from the structure. During a heavy rainfall, take a walk around your property to see whether water collects near foundation walls or flows away as intended.

Downspouts should discharge water at least two metres from the home’s foundation. Installing inexpensive downspout extensions can significantly reduce the risk of basement leaks and foundation damage.

Keep gutters and eavestroughs clear

Leaves and debris can prevent gutters from draining properly, causing water to overflow and run down exterior walls or collect near the foundation. Cleaning gutters in the spring and fall is one of the simplest maintenance tasks homeowners can perform to help prevent costly repairs.

Install a backwater valve

A backwater valve helps prevent sewage from flowing back into your home during periods of heavy rainfall when municipal sewer systems become overwhelmed. Many municipalities offer rebate programs to help offset installation costs, and some insurers may provide premium discounts for homes equipped with one.

Ensure your sump pump is ready

If your home has a sump pump, test it regularly and consider installing a battery backup. Power outages often accompany major storms, making a backup power source essential when it is needed most.

Water leak sensors are another worthwhile investment. These inexpensive devices can alert homeowners to leaking appliances or burst pipes before significant damage occurs.

Prepare your home for hotter summers

Canadian homes have traditionally been designed to retain heat during long winters. As heat waves become more frequent, many homes, particularly older ones, struggle to stay cool.

Consider a heat pump

Modern cold-climate heat pumps provide highly efficient heating during winter while also functioning as air conditioners during the summer. In many cases, they consume less energy than traditional heating and cooling systems, helping reduce utility costs while improving comfort year-round.

Various federal, provincial and utility incentive programs may help offset installation costs, although available rebates differ by region and change over time.

Reduce heat before it enters the home

Exterior shading is significantly more effective than interior blinds or curtains because it blocks sunlight before it reaches the windows.

Options include:

Awnings
Exterior shutters
Shade sails
Pergolas
Strategically planted deciduous trees, which provide shade in summer while allowing sunlight through during winter after their leaves have fallen

Improve insulation and air sealing

Well-insulated homes stay warmer during winter and cooler during summer. Sealing air leaks around windows, doors, attic hatches and electrical penetrations not only improves comfort but can also reduce heating and cooling costs throughout the year.

Improve indoor air quality during wildfire season

Wildfire smoke can travel hundreds or even thousands of kilometres, affecting communities far from active fires. Fine particulate matter can enter homes through small gaps and significantly reduce indoor air quality.

Upgrade your furnace filter

Homes with forced-air heating or cooling systems can improve indoor air quality by installing a higher-efficiency furnace filter, such as one with a higher MERV rating that is compatible with the HVAC system. Running the system’s fan continuously during smoky conditions can help circulate and filter indoor air.

Always confirm the maximum filter rating recommended by the equipment manufacturer to avoid restricting airflow.

Create a clean-air room

A portable HEPA air purifier can substantially reduce airborne smoke particles inside a single room. Bedrooms are often the best location, as people typically spend the longest uninterrupted period there.

Seal air leaks

Replacing worn weatherstripping and sealing gaps around windows and doors can reduce smoke infiltration while also improving energy efficiency throughout the year.

Reduce wildfire risk around your property

Research has shown that many homes lost during wildfires are ignited not by a wall of flames but by wind-blown embers that land on combustible materials close to the structure.

Creating a non-combustible zone around your home can significantly reduce this risk.

Focus on the area closest to the house

Within approximately 1.5 metres of the home:

Remove dry leaves and pine needles
Keep firewood well away from exterior walls
Avoid combustible mulch directly beside the home
Trim shrubs that touch siding or windows
Regularly clear roofs and gutters of debris

Protect vulnerable openings

Install fine metal mesh screens over attic, soffit and foundation vents to help prevent embers from entering the home.

Choose resilient materials during renovations

When replacing roofing, siding, fencing or decking, consider fire-resistant or non-combustible materials where practical. Selecting these products during scheduled renovations often adds relatively little to the overall project cost while improving long-term resilience.

FireSmart Canada provides free assessment tools and practical guidance for homeowners interested in reducing wildfire risk.

Prepare for severe winter weather

While summer weather receives increasing attention, winter storms remain a significant source of property damage across Canada.

Simple seasonal maintenance can help reduce risk:

Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before freezing temperatures arrive.
Know where your home’s main water shut-off valve is located.
Insulate exposed water pipes in unheated areas.
Trim dead or overhanging tree branches that could fail under snow or ice.
Keep enough emergency supplies on hand to remain comfortable during a prolonged power outage.

Review your insurance coverage regularly

Physical improvements are only one part of protecting your home. Equally important is ensuring your insurance coverage reflects today’s risks.

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that overland flood coverage and sewer backup coverage are often optional endorsements rather than standard features of a home insurance policy. Availability can also vary depending on location and local flood risk.

Your insurance broker can explain:

What perils are currently covered
Whether additional endorsements are available
Applicable deductibles and coverage limits
Whether certain mitigation measures qualify for premium discounts

Some insurers offer incentives for features such as monitored water leak sensors, battery-backed sump pumps, backwater valves or homes that have completed FireSmart mitigation work.

Small improvements can make a significant difference

Improving a home’s resilience does not require tackling every project at once. Regular maintenance and incremental upgrades often provide the greatest long-term value.

Cleaning gutters, extending downspouts, testing the sump pump and reviewing your insurance coverage are straightforward tasks that can help reduce the likelihood of some of the most common and costly home insurance claims.

As major components of your home eventually require replacement, choosing more resilient materials and systems can further strengthen your home’s ability to withstand increasingly unpredictable weather while improving comfort, efficiency and long-term peace of mind.

How to make a basement feel like a real room

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:09:25 GMT

A finished basement adds usable square footage without adding to your home’s footprint. In a country where winters mean months spent indoors, that additional living space carries real value. But turning a basement into a room people actually want to spend time in takes more than a coat of paint and a sectional sofa. The barriers are real: low ceilings, limited natural light, moisture risk, and mechanical systems that do not disappear just because you would rather not look at them.

Properly addressed, these challenges are easily overcome. Here’s how to approach a basement renovation in a way that produces a space that functions like the rest of your home.

Start with moisture prevention before anything else

Moisture is the most common reason finished basements fail, and it needs to be resolved before any finishing work begins. Mould, warped flooring, and damaged drywall are expensive to remediate, and they can affect air quality throughout the entire home.

Before finishing a basement, it’s important to address any signs of moisture infiltration. The warning signs are worth knowing: efflorescence (white mineral deposits on concrete walls), damp spots that appear after rainfall, musty odours, or visible mould or mildew. These are not cosmetic issues – they indicate a water management problem that needs to be corrected before any finishing work begins.

Ensure the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation, that eavestroughs and downspouts are directing water clear of the house, and that any cracks in the foundation have been sealed. If your area is prone to high water tables, a sump pump is a sound investment.

Once your basement is confirmed dry, address ventilation next. A heat recovery ventilator (HRV) brings fresh air into a sealed basement without losing heat, which is an important consideration in Canadian climates where windows stay closed for months at a time.

Insulate to a standard that makes the space comfortable

An under-insulated basement is cold in the winter and damp in the summer, and no amount of furnishing will make it pleasant to use. Natural Resources Canada recommends insulating basement walls based on your local climate, with colder regions requiring higher levels of insulation.. Rigid foam insulation on the interior of foundation walls, combined with batt insulation between framing, is a common and effective approach.

For the floor, radiant in-floor heating is worth considering. It delivers consistent warmth without ductwork, frees up wall and ceiling space, and makes a concrete slab genuinely comfortable underfoot. This is particularly important in a space where people will be sitting or playing on the floor.

Address lighting in layers

Basements lack the natural light that the rest of a home relies on, and a single layer of recessed pot lights will not compensate for that adequately. The result tends to feel flat and institutional rather than livable.

Approach basement lighting the way you would any above-grade room – in layers. Ambient lighting from recessed or flush-mounted ceiling fixtures provides overall illumination. Task lighting, including floor lamps, desk lamps, or reading lights near seating areas, adds function and warmth. Accent lighting, such as LED strip lights beneath shelving or a lamp in a corner, creates depth and makes the space feel finished.

Make the most of any natural light the basement has. Expanding window wells or installing larger egress windows can significantly increase natural light and ventilation. If you’re adding a basement bedroom, building codes across Canada generally require an emergency escape window or another approved means of egress. If expanding windows is not currently in the budget, keeping existing windows clean and unobstructed makes a noticeable difference.

Paint colour has a greater impact in a basement than almost anywhere else in the house. Warm whites and soft off-whites reflect available light and make ceiling heights feel greater. Deeper or more saturated colours absorb light and compound the sense of a low, enclosed space.

Work with the ceiling height you have

Low ceilings are the most common structural challenge in Canadian basements, and one of the most frequently mishandled. Drop ceilings conceal mechanical systems but reduce the ceiling height further, which is generally the opposite of what is needed.

Where possible, leave the structural elements and mechanical systems exposed and paint everything overhead a single consistent dark colour. Warm black, charcoal, or deep navy are all effective. When the joists, ducts, and pipes are the same colour, the eye stops reading them as individual objects and the ceiling recedes visually. The result is a room that reads as taller than it is.

If the layout of mechanical systems allows, have a contractor assess whether any ductwork or pipes that drop unusually low can be rerouted. Even a few centimetres of recovered height can make a material difference in how the space feels.

Design around a specific use

The most functional finished basements are built around a clear purpose. Before purchasing furniture or selecting finishes, decide what the space is for: a media room, a home gym, a home office, a children’s play area, or a combination of two of these uses. Each function has different requirements that should drive the design.

A media room benefits from sound dampening, including area rugs, upholstered furniture, and acoustic panels integrated into the wall design. A home gym requires flooring that can handle impact and heavy equipment. A home office depends on reliable Wi-Fi coverage, which is often a problem in basements, and adequate task lighting. If the space needs to serve more than one purpose, divide it deliberately. A partial wall, built-in shelving used as a room divider, or distinct lighting zones help the space function as organized areas rather than one open room without a clear identity.

Plan for storage from the start

Every basement houses some combination of utility functions: furnace, water heater, electrical panel, and often laundry. These should be planned around rather than treated as afterthoughts.

A well-organized utility area, clearly defined from the living space with a partial wall or a built-in partition, keeps functional storage accessible without allowing it to expand into the finished areas. Built-in shelving along a utility wall consolidates seasonal items, holiday decorations, and overflow storage in one designated location. This frees the rest of the basement to function as intended.

Downsizing done right: A step-by-step guide for a smaller home

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:08:02 GMT

Downsizing is not just about moving into a smaller space. It is about making intentional choices while still holding onto what matters most.

For many Canadians, this stage of life comes with a mix of practicality and emotion. You may be simplifying your home, but you are also deciding what happens to years of memories, family pieces, and meaningful belongings. The goal is not to get rid of everything; it is to create space while preserving what is important.

Here is how to approach it in a way that feels manageable and thoughtful.

Start with your “why”

Before sorting anything, get clear on what is motivating the move, whether it’s a lifestyle change, a desire for less maintenance, or a shift in long-term priorities.

When the purpose is clear, decisions become easier. It also helps reframe downsizing as a step forward rather than something you are giving up.

Give yourself time to do it properly

Downsizing takes longer than most people expect, especially when a home has been lived in for many years.

Starting early allows you to move through the process in stages. You can sort with more intention, make better decisions about what to keep, and avoid the pressure of rushing through meaningful items.

Plan for a smaller footprint

A smaller home requires a different way of thinking. Instead of trying to fit everything in, the focus shifts to what truly belongs in your day to day space.

Measuring furniture, reviewing layouts, and understanding storage limitations helps guide those decisions. Some items will naturally come with you, while others may need a different solution.

Keep what matters, store what does not need to be daily

This is where many people get stuck. Not everything fits in a smaller home, but that does not mean it has to be let go.

Storage can play an important role here. It allows you to keep family heirlooms, photo collections, or meaningful furniture without overcrowding your new space. It also creates flexibility for items that may be passed down to the next generation when the time is right.

Instead of forcing a decision, you can keep what matters in a way that still supports your new lifestyle.

Make space by moving seasonal and occasional items out

Downsizing often means less closet space, less storage, and fewer places to tuck things away.

Items like holiday decorations, seasonal clothing, sports gear, or extra furniture do not need to take up valuable space year round. Moving these into storage helps keep your home functional and uncluttered while still keeping everything accessible when you need it.

This approach makes a smaller home feel more comfortable and easier to maintain.

Thoughtfully pass things on

Downsizing is also an opportunity to share meaningful items with family and friends.

Furniture, keepsakes, and heirlooms can be passed down intentionally, rather than left for others to sort through later. Some items may not have a place today, but storing them temporarily allows you to decide when and how they are passed on.

This turns downsizing into something more positive and connected.

Create breathing room during the transition

There is often a gap between moving out of one home and fully settling into another.

Using storage during this time can reduce pressure. It keeps your space clear for staging if you are selling, helps simplify moving day, and gives you time to make thoughtful decisions once you are in your new home.

It is a practical way to stay organized without feeling rushed.

A simpler space that still holds your story

Downsizing is not about letting go of everything. It is about choosing what stays close and finding the right place for the rest.

By using storage as part of the process, you can create a home that feels lighter and easier to manage while still preserving the memories, items, and pieces that matter most.

In the end, downsizing is not about having less. It is about making space for the life you want now, without losing what matters along the way.

Home upkeep every new homeowner should do in their first year

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:06:20 GMT

Congratulations on your new home! The first year of ownership is the ideal time to build a foundation of care that protects your investment and keeps everything running smoothly for years to come.

If you received a home inspection report before closing, pull it out now. Any flagged items – even minor ones – are worth addressing early before they become costly repairs. From there, these tasks will help you stay ahead of the seasons and get to know your home inside and out.

Get familiar with the essentials

Do a walkthrough of your new home before you fully settle in. Locate your main water shut-off valve and electrical panel so you can find them quickly in an emergency. If your property has a well or septic system, locate those access points and review any existing maintenance records.

Refresh your safety baseline: install fresh batteries in every smoke and carbon monoxide detector, and check the manufacture dates on the units to ensure they’re not expired.

Do a diagnostic clean

A thorough move-in clean is one of the best ways to learn about your home’s mechanical health.

Replace the furnace filter on day one, and book an annual furnace inspection before the heating season. Vacuum the coils behind or underneath your refrigerator and clear lint from your dryer’s exterior exhaust duct. Run your washing machine, dishwasher and oven through a self-clean cycle and wipe down any filters or door seals.

In the bathrooms and kitchen, inspect the caulking around tubs, showers and sinks, and repair where necessary to avoid water damage. Seeing moisture or mould on your windowsills? After cleaning properly, run your bathroom fans more regularly or increase usage of your heat recovery ventilator if your home has one. If you’re still seeing condensation, it may be time to replace your windows.

Protect the exterior

Walk the perimeter seasonally. Keep eavestroughs clear and make sure downspouts extend at least four to six feet from your foundation – this is your best defence against basement water issues. Before temperatures drop, fill any small gaps in the foundation, disconnect garden hoses and shut off the interior supply line to outdoor taps.

Tailor your upkeep to your home type

Whether a home is decades old or newly built, each comes with its own set of maintenance requirements. Older properties may require more frequent upkeep of aging systems and materials, while newer homes often need proactive care to protect warranties and preserve long-term value. Understanding the unique needs of your home can help you plan ahead and avoid costly surprises.

Older homes: Turn the shut-off valves under sinks and toilets off and on once a year to keep them from seizing. Check your attic in winter for frost or ice buildup, and in summer for excessive heat – this signals poor ventilation or air leakage. Confirm insulation meets current code, as older homes are frequently under-insulated and upgrading pays off on energy bills.

If your home has a brick exterior, patch any areas with crumbling or flaking brick and mortar. Catching these small gaps early is a simple, cost-effective way to keep your home’s exterior strong and watertight. Your inspection report may also flag older systems like knob-and-tube wiring or galvanized pipes worth planning around.

New builds: Monitor soil grading in your first year as the ground settles around the foundation, and add topsoil as needed to maintain proper drainage away from the house. Keep a running list of cosmetic items – nail pops, trim gaps, hairline cracks in caulking – as the home adjusts to heating and cooling cycles. These are the items to document for your province’s specific warranty program deadlines, often at the one-year anniversary of your possession date.

Finally, be sure to operate your HRV regularly during the first year, as new construction materials can release gases over time. Consistent ventilation helps maintain healthy indoor air quality and supports a more comfortable living environment.

Condos and apartments: Living in a multi-unit building means your home’s maintenance can sometimes affect those living around you. A simple way to prevent unexpected water leaks is to replace standard rubber washing machine hoses with braided stainless steel versions which are much more durable and provide peace of mind, especially when you’re away from home.

It’s also helpful to ensure your personal insurance works in tandem with the building’s Master Policy. Take a moment to confirm you have “Deductible Assessment” coverage – it’s a small detail that offers significant protection. Finally, keep an eye on the Capital Replacement Plan (often called a Reserve Fund Study or Depreciation Report). This is the building’s long-term financial roadmap which will help you stay informed about future updates to the property and protect the resale value of your unit.

Start a home journal

Keep a folder, digital or physical, for your inspection report, appliance manuals and service dates, warranty documents, paint codes and any other details you want to keep track of. It’s a habit that pays off significantly throughout your homeownership journey and when it comes time to sell.

The first year is about learning how your home functions and establishing simple habits that make ownership easier. By staying proactive and observant, you are well on your way to a lifetime of comfortable living.

Strategic home renovations: Which upgrades actually drive resale value?

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:05:08 GMT

Renovating is one of the biggest investments most homeowners make, and it is easy to assume that any upgrade will pay you back when you sell. The truth is more nuanced. While some renovation projects yield high returns, others recoup little of their costs or can even actively work against your home’s value.

If you’re looking to invest in renovations, here are a few options that can boost your home’s value.

Maximizing value through kitchen and bathroom upgrades

Kitchens and bathrooms remain the primary drivers of buyer interest. According to the Appraisal Institute of Canada (AIC), strategic renovations in these spaces consistently offer strong appeal to buyers.

To maximize profitability, homeowners should focus on cosmetic refreshes rather than full-scale gut renovations. Full-scale renovations require a massive upfront investment and rarely yield a complete financial return. Instead, high-impact, cost-effective upgrades offer a much stronger financial return.

In the kitchen, updating cabinet fronts, installing quartz or granite countertops, and modernizing fixtures and lighting will elevate the design without the premium expense of a layout overhaul. Similarly, updating a bathroom with a new vanity, fresh tile, and a contemporary walk-in shower delivers a premium, modern aesthetic at a fraction of the cost of a complete rebuild.

Curb appeal upgrades offer a high return on investment

Investing in a home’s exterior remains a highly effective strategy for maximising its resale value. AIC points out that professional painting work offers an excellent return on investment, whilst a high-quality product often allows you to recoup the full cost of your investment. This is particularly true of steel front doors, which prove to be especially cost-effective for enhancing the home’s first impression.

Energy efficiency is the fastest-growing category

The Canadian real estate market has experienced a significant shift toward sustainability. Driven by escalating utility costs and expanding provincial rebate programs, energy-efficiency upgrades such as enhanced insulation, smart thermostats, cold-climate heat pumps, and high-performance window replacements are increasingly factored into a property’s appraised value rather than just its operational costs.

Before establishing a project budget, it is critical to review active federal and provincial incentive programs, as eligibility and funding levels fluctuate annually. Programs such as Quebec’s Rénoclimat and Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert, Ontario’s Home Renovation Savings, and Better Homes BC run concurrently with federal initiatives. Aligning your project with these active incentives can substantially improve your ROI.

Where returns get weaker: basements, decks, and landscaping

While basement finishing is highly requested, its financial payback is frequently misunderstood. On its own, a cosmetic basement renovation typically yields a modest return of 50% to 85%. However, two primary factors can dramatically alter this calculation:

Prioritizing Moisture Mitigation: Many Canadian foundations sit below the frost line, making freeze-thaw cycles a major risk for water infiltration. A finished basement lacking proper drainage, a sump pump, and corrected foundation grading represents a significant liability rather than an asset.
Creating Legal Living Space: Converting a basement into a legally recognized bedroom, full bathroom, or secondary suite changes the valuation structure. This adds official, appraised square footage and introduces rental income potential, making compliant secondary suites one of the highest-yielding renovations in select markets.

Ultimately, not every home improvement needs to be justified by resale value; personal comfort, safety, and long-term enjoyment are equally valid reasons to renovate. However, when return on investment is a priority, cosmetic kitchen and bathroom refreshes, alongside low-cost exterior updates like fresh paint and steel entry doors, offer the most reliable financial recovery.

Small condo, big life: Storage solutions that actually work

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:03:20 GMT

Condominiums are a common entry point into home ownership, particularly in Canada’s largest cities, and most buyers go in understanding the trade-off: less square footage in exchange for location, in-building amenities, and a lower-maintenance lifestyle. What catches many condo owners off guard is the lack of storage. Without a garage, a basement, or an attic, there is no obvious place for sports equipment, seasonal items, and everyday belongings that can accumulate in any household.

The solution is less about visual tricks and more about using existing storage capacity in smarter, more deliberate ways. That means utilizing your building’s storage locker, the overlooked spaces inside your unit, and integrating systems for managing what comes in and what gets put away.

Treat your storage locker as a primary storage resource

Many condo residents underuse their assigned storage locker, keeping it loosely organized and rarely accessed. In a building without a basement or garage, the locker is your most important secondary storage space, and it deserves to be organized accordingly.

Start by clearing out what is there and identifying what genuinely belongs in long-term storage versus what has simply accumulated. Items that belong in a locker are those used infrequently or only seasonally, such as ski and snowboard equipment, camping gear, bicycles, beach chairs, holiday decorations, extra luggage, and tools used only a few times a year. Installing wire shelving units to keep items off the floor, ceiling hooks for bikes or bulky equipment, and clearly labelled bins for seasonal categories will make the locker both more efficient and more functional.

Be sure to check your building’s storage locker rules, including what can be stored, weight limits, and access protocols – all can vary by condo corporation. Review your condo’s declaration and bylaws before storing any items that might be restricted, including sporting equipment, flammable materials, or oversized items.

Build a functional entryway system

The entryway is where storage discipline either holds or breaks down. In a house, a mudroom or dedicated closet handles the daily accumulation of coats, shoes, bags, and outdoor gear. In a condo, that same function needs to be solved in a narrower space.

The most effective approach is to assign a specific home to every category of item that passes through the entry. Hooks installed at two different heights – one for coats, and one for bags and lightweight outerwear – keep things off the floor and easy to grab. A bench with enclosed storage underneath handles footwear without leaving it in the path. A dedicated tray or shallow drawer for keys, transit passes, and cards eliminates the daily friction of locating small items.

If your entry closet has become a general storage room, reclaim it for its intended purpose. Anything that does not belong near the front door, such as the vacuum cleaner, cleaning supplies, or extra linens, should be relocated to another closet or cabinet. That leaves the entry closet to function as it should: a space for coats, shoes, bags, and the items needed on the way out the door.

Identify and use the underutilized space in your unit

Most condo units contain more unused storage capacity than residents recognize. The challenge is that it tends to exist in locations that are not immediately obvious.

Above the kitchen cabinets. The gap between upper cabinets and the ceiling is typically left empty. In a condo kitchen, this space can hold infrequently used appliances, large serving pieces, or pantry overflow stored in labelled containers.

Under every bed. A bed frame with built-in drawers or the addition of bed risers creates useful storage for seasonal clothing, extra bedding, and items that need to be accessible, but not visible day-to-day.

The backs of cabinet and closet doors. Shallow, door-mounted organizers work well in kitchens for spices, food storage wraps, and cleaning products, and in bathrooms for personal care items and hair tools. In a bedroom closet, a door-mounted shoe organizer or accessory rack can meaningfully increase what the closet holds without changing its footprint.

Bathroom walls. Floating shelves above the toilet or beside the vanity add surface area for products, towels, and small items in a room that typically has no floor space to spare.

The space behind a sofa. A narrow console table placed behind a sofa positioned away from the wall provides a useful surface for lamps, books, and items that would otherwise accumulate on the coffee table.

Rotate seasonal items twice a year

One of the most practical strategies for managing storage in a condo is a consistent, seasonal rotation between the unit and the storage locker. Attempting to keep a full wardrobe accessible in the unit at all times places unnecessary strain on limited closet space.

A rotation schedule tied to daylight saving time changes works well for most households. Summer clothing, fans, and lightweight gear come into the unit in spring. Winter coats, boots, and heavier bedding take their place in the fall. Vacuum storage bags compress bulky seasonal clothing and bedding significantly, making the transfer between unit and locker easier and more efficient.

Apply a storage system to the kitchen

Condo kitchens tend to be compact, and without a deliberate approach to organization, they fill up quickly and become difficult to use efficiently.

Drawer organizers are a practical first step. They prevent the accumulation of loose items that makes drawers difficult to search and creates the impression that storage is more limited than it is. In pantry cabinets, pull-out shelves or lazy Susans make the back of deep shelves accessible; without them, items tend to migrate to the back and go unused. A slim rolling cart placed in a dead corner or beside the refrigerator can add meaningful shelf space without reducing the kitchen’s usable floor area.

On countertops, vertical storage options such as magnetic knife strips, tiered spice shelving, and wall-mounted pot racks recover counter space while keeping frequently used items within reach.

85 3306 PRINCETON AVENUE COQUITLAM BC $1,299,900

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 15:39:44 GMT

Welcome to 85-3306 Princeton Avenue.

This 2,155 sq. ft. home features a dining room & living room with electric fireplace with cabinets surround, expansive windows & engineered wood flooring.

The kitchen boasts custom-crafted cabinetry with integrated & stainless-steel appliances, engineered stone countertops, plus marble tile backsplash & a deck off the kitchen.

Family room off kitchen as well.

Upstairs primary bedroom has a walk-in closet & the ensuite features a spa shower with a frameless door with rain shower head + luxurious soaker tub.

Two other good size bedrooms + two other bathrooms & laundry up.

Lower level has bedroom/office + full bathroom, lots of storage. Double garage.

Located across the street from Burke Mountain Pioneer Park.

Photo tour https://storyboard.onikon.com/marie-taverna/unit-85-3306-princeton-avenue-coquitlam

404 3939 HASTINGS STREET BURNABY BC $699,999

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 15:36:36 GMT

Welcome to The Sienna in the popular Burnaby Heights neighbourhood.

Imagine living in this 3 bed - 2 bath top floor end unit condo.

Enjoy the natural daylight coming in from the windows & skylights. Just over 900 square feet of well thought out space.

Some features to take note of are the hardwood flooring, custom cabinets & built-ins, granite counter tops, in suite laundry.

Cozy up to the gas fireplace in the living room on cooler nights. Dine on your sundeck while enjoying the southwest views.

3 bedroom units are rare & this is perfect unit for working at home.

Enjoy the local restaurants, coffee shops & shopping. Transit just steps away.

This unit has 2 PARKING SPOTS + 2 STORAGE LOCKERS. A pleasure to show.

Phot Tour https://share.jumptools.com/studioSlideshow.do?collateralId=241397&t=2918&b=1

415 -365 Ginger Drive New Westminster BC

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 14:51:30 GMT

Listed at $369,999.00

INVESTORS or 1st TIME BUYERS ALERT...Discover this stunning top-floor 2 bed,1bath condo a truly turn-key opportunity.

Inside you will fall in love with the beautifully updated kitchen featuring bright, white cabinets/sleek countertops/crisp white appliances/perfectly accented grey tile backsplash.

Large living room provides ample space for relaxing with sliding doors leading to a private balcony.Neutral palette throughout ensures an easy transition for your personal style.

Functional 4-piece bath is also updated with new counters/lighting & a modern tile surround. Spacious primary bedroom easily accommodates king-size furniture while the 2nd bedroom is perfectly sized for a home office.

Complete with easy-care mixed laminate & tile flooring/1 parking. Pet friendly!

Video tour https://share.jumptools.com/studioSlideshow.do?collateralId=241398&t=2918&b=1

Newcomers say owning a home strengthens their sense of belonging in Canada, but saving for one remains a barrier

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 14:48:18 GMT

Majority of non-homeowning newcomers intend to buy a home in Canada

Highlights:

Nine in 10 newcomers say that home ownership is an important part of feeling established in Canada.
61% of newcomers who intend to buy say saving for a down payment is their biggest barrier, followed by securing more stable or higher-paying employment (50%).
One third (33%) of newcomers own their primary residence; 66% do not own any property.
Before immigrating, nearly two in five newcomers expected buying a home in Canada to be more difficult than in their home country.
More than half (55%) of newcomers who own their home turned to a real estate agent for information about buying a home in Canada.
One fifth of newcomer homeowners say they purchased their first primary residence in Canada using a rent-to-own program.

TORONTO, September 24, 2026 – For many newcomers, home ownership represents an important milestone in building a life and establishing roots in Canada. Getting there, however, can mean navigating an unfamiliar housing market and mortgage system while finding reliable information to guide one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.

According to a recent Royal LePage® survey, conducted by Burson,[1] four in five Canadian newcomers (80%) believe home ownership is a good financial investment, rising to 86 per cent among those who owned property before immigrating. The vast majority of newcomers (90%) say that home ownership is important to their sense of being established in Canada.

Despite positive attitudes toward home ownership, many newcomers have yet to enter the market. One third (33%) of newcomers say they currently own their primary residence, including some who also own a secondary property, while 66 per cent do not own any property. Of those who do not own, 80 per cent rent their primary residence and 13 per cent live with family or friends.

“Home ownership has long been a defining goal for Canadians, and for newcomers it can carry added significance as they establish themselves in a new country and community,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage. “They face many of the same affordability challenges as Canadian-born buyers, from saving for a down payment to finding a property that meets their needs and budget. At the same time, they are likely learning an entirely new housing and financial system. Helping them understand the path to home ownership with reliable information is an important part of how our company is supporting newcomers in successfully establishing themselves in Canada.”

Ownership rates climb the longer someone has been in the country. Among newcomers who have lived in Canada at least five years but less than a decade, 45 per cent own a home, compared to 22 per cent of those who’ve been in the country less than five years. By their fifth year after admission, economic-class immigrants report comparable home ownership rates to Canadian-born individuals, according to Statistics Canada.[2]

The role of newcomers in Canada’s housing market has evolved alongside changes to federal immigration policy. In recent years, Canada has slowed population growth in response to pressure on housing, infrastructure and public services. In October 2024, the government reduced its permanent resident targets for 2025 through 2027, including lowering the 2026 target from 500,000 to 380,000 admissions.[3]

Under the subsequent 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, permanent resident admissions are now set at 380,000 annually through 2028. At the same time, the plan places greater emphasis on transitioning people already living and working in Canada to permanent residency status, including a two-year initiative to accelerate permanent residence for up to 33,000 temporary workers in 2026 and 2027.[4]

“For someone who has spent years working, studying and contributing to a community in Canada, obtaining permanent residency naturally leads to long-term decisions about where and how they want to live, including buying a home,” said Soper. “Canada needs a housing strategy that recognizes both the needs of established residents and those we continue to welcome. Governments at all levels must work together to ensure the supply of rental and ownership housing keeps pace, so that everyone who chooses to call Canada home has an opportunity to find suitable housing.”

“Owning a home in Canada would mean finally feeling settled after immigrating and leaving everything behind in our home country. It would give our family a sense of stability, security, and belonging, and a place we can truly call our own. It would also represent all the hard work and sacrifices we have made to build a new life in Canada.”

– Gen Z survey respondent, Manitoba

Most newcomers who don’t own intend to buy, but saving is the hurdle

Buying a home in Canada is a priority for many newcomers, but affordability, financial readiness and navigating an unfamiliar housing system can be challenging.

More than three quarters (76%) of newcomers who do not own their primary residence say they intend to buy a home in Canada. Of this group, nearly half (48%) plan to purchase within the next two years, while 21 per cent expect to buy more than two years from now. Another 24 per cent say their timeline is uncertain, but home ownership remains a priority.

For many newcomers, purchasing a home in Canada would be their first experience with home ownership. Prior to immigrating, only one third (33%) of those surveyed say they owned their home, while nearly half (49%) rented and 17 per cent lived with family or friends.

“Newcomers arrive in Canada with very different financial circumstances, and that can shape their path to home ownership. Some sell a home in their country of origin and arrive with the funds to buy within months. Others arrive with little more than a suitcase and spend years working and saving, moving from a basement apartment to a rental condo before they are ready to purchase,” said Norman Xu, broker, Royal LePage Signature Realty in Toronto.

“I have worked with clients who bought within their first year in Canada and others who bought after 20 years. For many, it is their first purchase anywhere, so alongside saving, they are learning how financing, offers and closing costs work here. What they often share with me is the significance of that purchase. It is a moment when the life they have been working to build in Canada begins to feel more permanent,” added Xu.

It’s common for newcomers to arrive in Canada anticipating challenges in the housing market. Before immigrating, nearly two in five (39%) expected buying a home in Canada to be more difficult than in their home country, while 27 per cent expected it to be easier and 23 per cent expected a similar experience. Newcomers currently living in Atlantic Canada (48%), British Columbia (42%) and Ontario (41%) were the most likely to say they had expected buying a home in Canada to be more difficult.

“Halifax still offers homes under $500,000, giving newcomer buyers options that can be harder to come by in more expensive markets like Toronto or Vancouver. But comparatively affordable housing does not mean the path to ownership is easy,” said Olesia Zozulia, sales representative, Royal LePage Atlantic in Halifax. “There can be a gap between what buyers expect their budget will afford and what is available in the local market. Financing is often the bigger obstacle. Many of the newcomers I work with are proactive about building strong credit in Canada, but recent arrivals simply have not had the time to establish the longer credit and income history lenders may look for. Self-employed buyers can also face additional challenges demonstrating their income. These factors can delay a purchase by a year or two, even when buyers are otherwise financially prepared.”

Among newcomers who do not own a home but intend to buy, 61 per cent say saving for a down payment is their biggest barrier, followed by securing more stable or higher-paying employment (50%), learning more about the homebuying process in Canada (28%), building their credit score or credit history (27%), and deciding where they want to live (26%). Respondents could select more than one answer.

“Building a Canadian credit history can be one of the first challenges newcomers encounter when preparing to buy a home. Some come from countries where cash is king, from everyday purchases to major transactions like homes, so they may arrive with strong finances and little or no debt, but also without the credit history Canadian lenders look for,” said Eunice Aranda, sales representative, Royal LePage Benchmark in Calgary. “At the same time, establishing a life in a new country often comes with major expenses. A vehicle, furniture, credit cards and other costs can add up quickly, and taking on too much debt too soon can reduce how much a newcomer qualifies to borrow for a home. Understanding that every credit decision can affect future purchasing power is incredibly important, especially in those first few years in Canada.”

For newcomers with limited Canadian credit history, alternative options are available. Through its Newcomers program, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) provides mortgage loan insurance for eligible permanent residents and non-permanent residents authorized to work in Canada. Where Canadian credit history is limited, CMHC may consider other ways of establishing creditworthiness, including an international credit report or a reference from a financial institution in the borrower’s country of origin.

“The most difficult part of the home buying process was getting approved for a mortgage. The paperwork was stressful, and the banks have really strict requirements. Initially, I found the whole process really confusing.”

– Millennial survey respondent, Ontario

Newcomers often buy where they first settle

Where newcomers first settle can have a lasting influence on where they build their lives in Canada. Ontario is the most popular initial destination, with nearly half (47%) of newcomers saying they first settled in the province, followed by Quebec (16%), British Columbia (13%) and Alberta (12%). And, the majority of newcomers tend to settle in major centres. When they first arrived in Canada, nearly half (46%) of newcomers surveyed say they settled in or near the downtown core of a major city, while another 35 per cent settled in a suburb.

“Newcomers often put down roots where they already have a sense of culture, community and connection. Being close to family, familiar businesses and services in their mother tongue can play a significant role in where they choose to live,” said Raj Gill, broker and owner, Royal LePage Global Force Realty in Surrey. “What often changes is the type of home they are willing to consider. Given affordability challenges in Metro Vancouver, many first-time buyers gravitate toward condominiums and townhomes rather than detached houses. Access to transit and less home maintenance can be more appealing than having additional square footage. Individual family needs also play a role. If newcomers are moving to Canada with children, a detached home may be a preferred option over attached styles of housing. Staying connected to their community can also be a major consideration, allowing families to remain close to relatives and other sources of support rather than moving farther away simply to get a larger home.”

For most, that first community remains home. Seventy-one per cent of newcomers say they still live in the same city or town where they first settled after arriving in Canada. Newcomers currently living in Saskatchewan and Manitoba are the most likely to have remained in their original community, with 84 per cent saying they still live in the same area.

“It is common for newcomers to arrive in Canada with an existing connection to the community where they settle, often through family or friends who can help them get established,” said Suketu Patel, sales representative, Royal LePage Next Level in Regina. “Proximity to the downtown core remains a priority for many newcomers, particularly those working in government and hospitality who value convenient access to workplaces, restaurants and other amenities. Those who first came to Canada as international students may also want to remain close to the neighbourhoods, services and communities they have become familiar with. For families, priorities often shift toward being close to relatives and good schools, which can draw buyers to some of the city’s more established neighbourhoods.”

Among newcomers who own a home, more than two thirds (68%) purchased their primary residence in the city or town where they first settled in Canada, while 31 per cent bought in a different location. The share was highest in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, where 92 per cent of newcomer homeowners purchased in the community where they first settled, followed by Alberta (73%), British Columbia (71%), Atlantic Canada (68%), Ontario (65%) and Quebec (59%).

For aspiring homeowners, nearly half (47%) of newcomers who plan to purchase a home intend to do so in the same city or town where they first arrived.

“Newcomer buyers often weigh their priorities differently when searching for a place to call home. In Quebec, we see buyers who are willing to look beyond the communities where they first settled if it means finding a home that better meets their needs or budget,” said Dina Morsi, certified real estate broker, Royal LePage Champlain in Montreal. “But, location will always remain a very personal decision. Proximity to family, cultural networks, schools and places of worship can all influence where buyers choose to put down roots. Ultimately, when searching for a home, buyers will choose the community and property that work best for their individual needs, lifestyle and budget. I also work with families looking for enough space to accommodate multiple generations under one roof, which can lead them to expand their search beyond the neighbourhoods they already know.”

“Buying a house in Canada represents an investment for the future and retirement.”

– Gen X survey respondent, Quebec

Rent-to-own offers another path for newcomer homebuyers

For newcomers who are still building their Canadian credit history or saving for a down payment, qualifying for a traditional mortgage may take time. Rent-to-own programs can offer another path by allowing participants to live in a home while working towards the eventual purchase.

One fifth (20%) of newcomer homeowners say they purchased their first primary residence in Canada using this service, while more than half (52%) of newcomers overall say they are familiar with rent-to-own as a path to home ownership.

Through such programs, the rental period can give prospective buyers time to build savings toward a down payment, establish Canadian credit and employment history, and strengthen their financial profile before applying for a mortgage. Requity Homes, Canada’s leading rent-to-own provider and a partner of Royal LePage and CMHC, offers this type of pathway for prospective buyers who may need more time to meet traditional lending requirements.

“Many newcomers arrive in Canada with strong incomes, decent savings and a clear goal of becoming homeowners, but they may not yet meet every requirement of the traditional mortgage system. The challenge could be the size of their down payment, the length of their Canadian employment history, or documentation that does not fit neatly within standard lending criteria,” said Amy Ding, founder and CEO, Requity Homes.

“In many cases, it is not about whether they can manage the monthly cost of owning a home, but whether they need more time to qualify for a mortgage. Rent-to-own can help bridge that gap, giving newcomers time to establish themselves financially in Canada while living in the home they intend to buy and building toward their down payment. For families who might otherwise spend years trying to save while renting, it can provide a more direct path toward home ownership.”

“Owning a home would mean security and stability for my family, giving us a place to truly belong and build memories while ensuring long-term financial independence.”

– Millennial survey respondent, Atlantic Canada

Real estate professionals play a key role for newcomers

Having knowledgeable guidance can make a meaningful difference as newcomers navigate their first home purchase in Canada. Beyond finding a property, an agent can help buyers understand local market conditions, become familiar with the home buying process and connect with other professionals involved in a transaction: from mortgage advisors and home inspectors to notaries, lawyers and insurance providers.

Among newcomers surveyed who own their primary residence, nearly three quarters (73%) say they worked with a real estate agent to purchase a home in Canada.

“Buying a home works very differently here than it does in many of my clients’ home countries, and navigating an unfamiliar system can add another layer of stress,” said Anna Denisiuk, sales representative, Royal LePage Prime Real Estate in Winnipeg. “Taking the time to explain the process and connect buyers with the right professionals can make a real difference, especially when they have not yet had the opportunity to build those relationships in Canada. Above all, trust has to be earned. For many newcomers, this purchase represents years of hard work and savings. They deserve someone in their corner who understands what it took to get here.”

When asked where they turned for information about buying a home in Canada, more than half (55%) of newcomer homeowners cited a real estate agent, followed by family or friends (42%), online research (37%), and banks, mortgage brokers or financial advisors (35%). Respondents could select more than one answer.

“Canada has been shaped by people who chose to build their lives here, and for many newcomers, owning a home is the moment that choice is solidified. The role of a real estate professional in that journey goes well beyond finding a property. It means making an unfamiliar system understandable, advocating for the buyer’s interests and connecting them with the people and information they need to make confident decisions,” added Soper.

“For someone making one of the largest financial commitments of their life in the country they dreamed of living in, that support carries real weight. Helping families put down roots and build a future in Canada is among the most meaningful contributions a real estate professional can make.”

For the full Royal LePage 2026 Canadian Newcomers Survey chart, click here.

Download the Royal LePage 2026 Canadian Newcomers Survey chart: rlp.ca/table-2026-Canadian-Newcomers-Survey

Searching for a home? Use the Royal LePage mobile app – available in 22 languages.

Look for a home in the language you are most comfortable with using the Royal LePage app. Available in 22 languages, the app provides easy-to-understand AI property summaries and a 24/7 multilingual AI assistant that can help you find listings, answer property questions and connect you with a local Royal LePage professional. Download for free in the App Store and the Play Store.

Helping you is what we do.® – now powered by AI.

Royal LePage resources for newcomer homebuyers:

To help aspiring homeowners new to Canada, Royal LePage has published a number of online resources available at the following links:

About the Survey

Burson used the Leger Opinion online panel to survey 1,400 recent newcomers to Canada (i.e., immigrated within the past 10 years) between August 25th and September 8th, 2026. Representative sampling was done across all provinces (Atlantic provinces were aggregated and Saskatchewan was aggregated with Manitoba) as well as Toronto CMA, Montreal CMA, Vancouver CMA, and Calgary CMA. The survey was administered in English, French, Arabic, Chinese, Tagalog and Punjabi. No margin of error can be associated with a non-probability sample (i.e., a web panel in this case). For comparative purposes, though, a probability sample of 1,400 respondents would have a margin of error of ±3%, 19 times out of 20.

208-2110 Rowland Street Open House

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 17:51:17 GMT

Live the ideal family life in this gorgeous 3-level townhome, offering breathtaking mountain views & unparalleled flexibility.This home easily accommodates a large or growing family with 3 spacious bdrms/a playroom/an office&a den.The main level is designed for entertaining, featuring a large living/dining area&a bright galley kitchen with granite counters/S/S appliances/pantry. Recent updates include stylish flooring throughout the upper 2 levels&stairs.Top floor hosts a magnificent primary bedroom with walk-in closet&a luxurious ensuite with a walk-in shower & deep soaker tub.Step out to the private sundeck with turf for tranquil evenings or use the BBQ deck.Exceptionally well-located near schools, transit includes 2 parking spots & private storage room.

OPEN HOUSE SUN APRIL 12th 12-2pm

415-365 Ginger Drove New Westminster Open House

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 17:50:05 GMT

Discover this stunning top-floor 2 bed,1bath condo a truly turn-key opportunity. Inside you will fall in love with the beautifully updated kitchen featuring bright white cabinets/sleek countertops/crisp white appliances/perfectly accented grey tile backsplash.Large living room provides ample space for relaxing with sliding doors leading to a private balcony.The neutral palette throughout ensures an easy transition for your personal style.The functional 4-piece bath is also updated with new counters/lighting & a modern tile surround.The spacious primary bdrm easily accommodates king-size furniture while the 2nd bedroom is perfectly sized for a dedicated home office.Complete with easy-care mixed laminate&tile flooring/1 parking spot/1 storage. Pet friendly! OPEN HOUSE SUN APRIL 12th 2-4

Buyers and sellers adopting a wait-and-see approach to housing market

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 17:41:45 GMT

Home sales registered on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver continue evolving at a pace similar to last year, with the sales down roughly three per cent from last March.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 2,032 in March 2026, a 2.8 per cent decrease from the 2,091 sales recorded in March 2025. This was 31.8 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,981).

"Year-to-date, sales are tracking our forecast for the year closely, and the weakness in demand we continue to observe at the aggregate level is unsurprising. What’s interesting is that the aggregate total masks an emerging divergence among market segments. While the multifamily segment continues to see slower sales, the detached segment may be awakening with sales up, and new listings down from last year."Andrew Lis, GVR chief economist and vice-president, data analytics

There were 5,792 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in March 2026. This represents a 10.3 per cent decrease compared to the 6,455 properties listed in March 2025. This was 4.9 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (5,521).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 14,774, a 1.6 per cent increase compared to March 2025 (14,546). This is 38 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (10,704).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for March 2026 is 14.2 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 11 per cent for detached homes, 17.2 per cent for attached, and 15.7 per cent for apartments.

“We continue to see fewer sellers stepping into the market than last year, which is keeping inventory levels relatively flat. Pairing this dynamic with sales remaining below long-term averages, we’re not seeing prices move significantly in either direction,” Lis said. “And while the political uncertainty over tariffs may have diminished relative to what we saw in early 2025, the conflict in the middle east is now putting upward pressure on bond yields and fixed mortgage rates.

“As a result, it’s reasonable to expect there may be a dampening effect on demand as we head into the spring market, absent a swift resolution to the conflict.”

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,104,300. This represents a 6.8 per cent decrease over March 2025 and a 0.4 per cent increase compared to February 2026.

Sales of detached homes in March 2026 reached 571, an 8.3 per cent increase from the 527 detached sales recorded in March 2025. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,854,800. This represents an 8.2 per cent decrease from March 2025 and a 1 per cent increase compared to February 2026.

Sales of apartment homes reached 999 in March 2026, a 7.8 per cent decrease compared to the 1,084 sales in March 2025. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $706,700. This represents a 7.8 per cent decrease from March 2025 and a 0.2 per cent decrease compared to February 2026.

Attached home sales in March 2026 totalled 446, a 5.5 per cent decrease compared to the 472 sales in March 2025. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,047,100. This represents a 5.7 per cent decrease from March 2025 and a 0.1 per cent increase compared to February 2026.

https://members.gvrealtors.ca/news/GVR-Stats-Package-March-2026.pdf

1250 Delta Avenue Burnaby BC

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:19:41 GMT

Welcome Home to 1250 Delta Ave in the very popular Brentwood Park Neighbourhood. 4 bed & 3 bath home with Brentwood Park Elementary & Alpha Secondary close by. Good size main floor with large living room, sliders off the dining room to the large sundeck.Kitchen has cook top & a wall oven.Convenient laundry off kitchen.The bedrooms are a good size. Hardwood flooring through much of main level. Lower level has a rec room +bedroom+ den area possible 2nd kitchen & laundry area.Lots of storage & a whole lot more. Great yard for children & Fido. Lane access with a double garage & open parking for many vehicles.May have the ability to have a suite for extended family, check with city. Brentwood Centre & Skytrain close by.

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY MARCH 22nd 2:00-4:00pm. See you there! $1,795,000.00

208-2110 Rowland Street Port Coquitlam BC

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:18:16 GMT

Welcome Home! Fabulous 3 level townhome in Port Coquitlam.Bright & spacious home with 3 bedrooms+playroom+office+den is perfect for a growing family. Large living&dining area,galley kitchen with granitecounters+S/S appliances+pantry.Eating area nook.2-piece powder room finishes the main floor.Updated vinyl flooring on 2nd&3rd floors+stairs.Top floor has large primary bedroom+walk-in closet+ensuite/double sinks+walk-in shower+soaker tub. Private sundeck with artificial turf for relaxing on at the end of the day.BBQ deck overlooking private garden,the park & beautiful views of the mountains.Close to all levels of schools.Easy access to transit & highway.2 underground parking spots+private storage room.Don’t miss this beauty. A pleasure to show.

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY MARCH 22nd 1:00-3:00pm $979,900.00

415-365 Ginger Drive New Westminster BC

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:16:49 GMT

Welcome Home! Fall in love with this cutie. This top floor 2 bedroom and 1 bath condo is move in ready. Updated kitchen with white and bright cabinets, counter tops and white appliances. Grey tile backsplash is a perfect accent choice. Large living room with sliders to the balcony to relax on in the summertime. Mixed laminate and tile flooring for easy care. 4-piece bathroom with updated counters, lighting and tile bath/shower tile surround. The primary bedroom will fit your king size furniture. Second bedroom is a good size, perfect for a home office. Very neutral colours throughout. Meet your neighbours in the shared laundry. One parking spot and one storage locker. Minutes away form Queen's Park, new Aquatic & Community Centre, plus the new bridge.

OPEN HOUSE SAT MARCH 21st 2:00-4:00pm $449,900.00

Bank of Canada Announcement

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:14:05 GMT

Amidst rising global tensions, BoC holds key lending rate in March 18th decision

Third consecutive hold keeps Bank of Canada’s overnight lending rate at 2.25%

Today, in its second scheduled announcement of 2026, the Bank of Canada opted to hold the target for the overnight lending rate at 2.25%. This marks the third consecutive hold to interest rates since October of last year.

Escalating conflict in the Middle East has added volatility to energy prices in recent weeks, renewing concerns about inflation as gas prices climb and financial markets react negatively. While the Canadian economy is still expected to grow modestly as it adjusts to US tariffs, the Bank noted that recent data points to weaker-than-anticipated growth in the near term. However, it is still too early to assess the full impact of the conflict on Canada’s economic outlook, according to the central bank.

“The Canadian economy continues to face heightened uncertainty related to US trade policy and geopolitical risks. Now the war in Iran has added a new layer of uncertainty. Its impact on the global and Canadian economies will depend on how long the conflict lasts and the extent to which it spreads across the Middle East. Inflation in Canada has been close to the 2% target for more than a year. But, as we’ve seen, the war in Iran is causing oil prices to move sharply higher and this will push up inflation in the short term,” said Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, in a press conference with reporters following the announcement.

“Governing Council will look through the war’s immediate impact on inflation but if energy prices stay high, we will not let their effects broaden and become persistent inflation.”

According to Statistics Canada, the country lost 84,000 jobs in February, pushing the unemployment rate to 6.7%. In the same month, Canada’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 1.8% year over year, down from 2.3% in January. The main factor driving inflation lower last month was the end of the federal tax holiday in February last year. However, higher fuel prices could have the opposite effect in the coming months.

Early spring buyers benefit from steady lending rates

With the Bank opting to hold rates steady once again, homebuyers entering the market in the coming weeks can expect a period of relative stability in borrowing costs.

“Despite growing geopolitical uncertainty, interest rates remain steady following today’s Bank of Canada announcement. As global markets react to developments in the Middle East, policymakers will be watching closely for any impact on inflation and, ultimately, borrowing costs,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage. “For Canadians preparing to purchase a home or renew their mortgage this spring, the key takeaway is stability. Today’s decision provides households with a measure of certainty as they plan major financial commitments in the weeks ahead.”

According to the Royal LePage® House Price Survey and Market Forecast, the aggregate1 price of a home in Canada decreased 1.5% year over year to $807,200 in the fourth quarter of 2025. On a quarter-over-quarter basis, the national aggregate home price posted a similar decline of 1.1%, reflecting softer market conditions and persistent buyer caution that weighed on activity during the traditionally active fall season.

The Bank of Canada will make its next interest rate announcement on April 29th, 2026.

Read the full March 18th report here. Want to know more about how the overnight lending rate works? Read our explainer on how the Bank of Canada uses this financial tool.

Tips to make a small room look bigger

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 17:18:00 GMT

If you want to make a compact room feel brighter, airier and more spacious than its square footage suggests, a few thoughtful design choices can make a big impact. These tried-and-true tips work in any room of the home and suit every budget – with no renovation required.

Lighten up the walls

Lighter paint colours instantly open up a room, helping it feel airy and expansive. White is a classic choice, but soft neutrals, gentle pastels and muted tones can create the same sense of openness. Dark, saturated colours tend to absorb light and visually shrink a room, making it feel more intimate, which can be lovely, but not ideal if your goal is to maximize space.

Use mirrors to visually double your space

Mirrors are one of the most effective tools for making a room appear larger. A full-length mirror, a statement floor-to-ceiling piece or a large framed mirror over a sofa or console will reflect light and create the illusion of added depth. Placing mirrors opposite windows is especially impactful, helping to bounce daylight throughout the room.

Streamline your window treatments

Heavy, long curtains can visually shorten walls and interrupt the flow of the room. For a cleaner, more open look, try low-profile blinds or shades that can be tucked neatly out of sight. If you prefer curtains, choose sheer fabrics or panels that closely match the wall colour to maintain continuity and avoid breaking up the room.

Clear the floor and edit your furniture

Crowded rooms feel smaller. Removing just one unused or oversized piece of furniture can dramatically improve the sense of space. When selecting new items, choose pieces scaled appropriately for the room. For example, apartment-sized sofas and slim-profile accent chairs offer comfort without overwhelming the layout.

Choose furniture that feels visually light

Open, airy furniture helps extend sightlines and keeps a small room from feeling boxed in. Great options include:

Glass or acrylic coffee tables
Dining tables with slim silhouettes
Chairs with visible legs rather than skirting
Clear resin pieces for modern spaces

These elements allow the eye to travel through the room, creating a more spacious feel.

Keep patterns and decor simple

Bold patterns and heavy textures can dominate a small room. Opt for subtle prints, minimal accessories and cohesive colour palettes to maintain a sense of harmony and openness. One or two statement pieces can shine more effectively when the rest of the room feels balanced.

Maximizing a small space doesn’t mean compromising on style. With the right combination of colour, light, furniture and thoughtful design choices, any room can feel brighter, larger and more inviting. Have fun experimenting and creating a home that works beautifully for you!

A guide to maintaining and cleaning hardwood floors

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 17:15:22 GMT

Hardwood floors are one of the most timeless features a home can have. Whether they’re original planks in a century home or a recent installation, hardwood flooring brings warmth and character to the home, and that character is worth protecting.

With the right maintenance and care, hardwood can last for generations. From a purely practical standpoint, it is one of the most financially rewarding features in a home to maintain. Homeowners may recover more than their project cost at resale, particularly when refinishing existing hardwood floors – one of the few improvements consistently shown to deliver strong cost recovery.

Here’s how to keep your hardwood floors in excellent shape.

Daily protection

A strict shoes-off policy at the door is one of the most effective things you can do for your floors. Road salt, slush, winter grit and sandy summers are genuinely destructive to hardwood finishes and can cause damage that builds invisibly over time.

Your first line of defense: use an oversized entryway mat that offers plenty of room for people to stand and remove their footwear. Providing a dedicated space for wet shoes to dry prevents moisture from migrating to your hardwood and causing long-term damage.

Beyond the entryway, attach felt pads to the legs of all chairs and rubber pads for heavy furniture. Replace when they wear thin or you notice dirt collecting. Clean up spills immediately – wood and standing liquid are not friends. Area rugs add another layer of protection, especially in high-traffic zones or kids’ play areas.

The right way to clean hardwood floors

For daily maintenance, sweeping or vacuuming with a barefloor attachment removes the fine dust and grit that act like sandpaper underfoot. Stick to spot cleaning with a weak baking soda paste for scuffs, and a mild dish soap for other spills. Be sure to dry thoroughly when finished.

Go in for a deep clean once every month or two, avoiding extra moisture at all costs. Never use a traditional wet mop or a steam mop, as water sitting or seeping between boards can cause swelling, warping, and structural damage that is difficult and costly to reverse. A slightly damp microfibre mop, used sparingly and always in the direction of the grain, is the right tool for the job.

When it comes to cleaners, use a pH-neutral dishsoap, castile soap or cleaning product formulated specifically for hardwood. DIY recipes involving vinegar, lemon and household oils should never be used on hardwood floors. The acidity in vinegar and lemon juice can gradually eat away at your floor’s protective finish, and adding oils like olive oil creates a slippery, dirt-trapping residue. For the longevity of your investment, stick to a pH-neutral cleaner as mentioned above that respects the finish rather than destroying it.

Managing the Canadian climate

Hardwood floors respond to the seasons, expanding in humid summers and contracting in dry winters. The ideal indoor humidity range for hardwood floors is between 35% and 55%, and maintaining that consistency year-round is an important factor in their longevity.

In winter months, the air inside the home is drier, so using a whole-home or room-specific humidifier helps prevent the boards from shrinking and gapping. In summer, air conditioning usually keeps the humidity level at an optimal level. Hygrometers are readily available so you can monitor levels easily.

Know your floor before you restore it

Before attempting any significant maintenance or repair, it’s worth knowing exactly what you’re working with.

Solid hardwood is a single piece of wood from top to bottom. Because of its depth, it can typically be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it a true generational floor. Engineered hardwood consists of a real wood veneer bonded over a plywood base. It handles humidity fluctuations better than solid wood, but its refinishing potential depends entirely on the thickness of that top layer. When in doubt, consult a flooring professional before proceeding.

Refreshing and refinishing

Even beautifully-maintained floors will show wear over time. Recoating is a lighter-touch option for minor surface scuffs, as it adds a fresh layer of finish without heavy sanding and can restore the look of a floor dramatically. For deeper scratches or significant wear, a full refinish involves sanding down to bare wood and reapplying a new finish entirely. Both are best handled by a professional.

Hardwood is a permanent asset that bridges a home’s past with its future. A simple commitment to maintenance ensures the character of your space remains as enduring as the wood itself, and in turn, will serve your home for generations.

Canada’s office market set to heat up in 2026, as demand more top tier properties intensifies

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 17:13:29 GMT

Return-to-office momentum to tighten urban commercial markets, while activity in industrial segment stabilizes

The forces shaping today’s economy are extending well beyond household finances and residential real estate. They are also influencing how businesses plan, invest and choose where to operate.

Global trade tensions are increasingly influencing commercial real estate activity. Across Canada, office and industrial markets are evolving as businesses adapt to economic uncertainty. Industrial activity has stabilized in many cities, while demand for office space is gaining momentum as more employers increase in-person expectations. Together, these trends are reshaping the commercial landscape, according to the newly-released Royal LePage® 2026 Commercial Real Estate Report.

“Much like the residential real estate sector, broader economic uncertainty has weighed on commercial real estate decision-making in recent years,” said Matt Jacques, interim general manager, Royal LePage® Commercial™. “What’s different heading into 2026 is the growing sense of stability. Businesses are no longer reacting to every economic headline and are instead taking a more deliberate, long-term approach to space planning and investment decisions.

“While caution remains, there is optimism that market conditions are beginning to normalize. As confidence gradually rebuilds, we expect to see more consistency in activity across both office and industrial markets throughout Canada. Regional variations, however, mean this trend will unfold diversely across the country.”

Back-to-office momentum lifts leasing activity

As Canada’s corporate workforce increasingly faces return-to-office requirements, office real estate in major cities is expected to continue its gradual recovery in 2026.

Pandemic-driven adoption of remote and hybrid work models weighed heavily on downtown office markets and dampened leasing activity. That dynamic has shifted, however, as major employers such as Royal Bank of Canada, Rogers Communications and Starbucks Canada recalled staff to their corporate offices in 2025 and early 2026, implementing three-, four- and five-day in-office work schedules. Federal employees will also be back in office four days per week, beginning this summer.

“The past two years have been pivotal for the office sector, which has steadily regained momentum following the unprecedented disruption of the pandemic, when downtown cores saw office towers largely empty during lockdown periods. The market is not returning to its pre-pandemic form; rather, it is evolving into something more deliberate and intentional,” said Jacques. “Employers are placing greater emphasis on how space can be used rather than how much space they take up, prioritizing layouts that support collaboration, flexibility and employee experience. That shift is increasingly shaping leasing decisions across the country.

“While hybrid work models will remain part of the equation long-term, rising in-office attendance and clearer workplace strategies are helping to bring greater stability to the market.”

According to a survey of Royal LePage commercial real estate market professionals across the country, 66% of experts expect occupier demand for office space to modestly increase or stay the same in their respective market in 2026. Five per cent expect demand will increase significantly. Meanwhile, 42% of experts expect vacancy rates for office space to decrease in their market this year.

Industrial sector holds steady amid economic uncertainty

Industrial real estate is expected to remain one of Canada’s strongest-performing commercial asset classes in 2026. Although rental growth for industrial spaces has moderated from pandemic-era highs, demand fundamentals remain intact, supported by e-commerce activity, supply chain reconfiguration and the continued need for warehousing and distribution facilities.

Manufacturing sales rose sharply in the early stages of the post-pandemic recovery, driven by the reopening of the economy post-lockdown and pent-up consumer demand. This sustained level of activity has been a key driver of demand for industrial real estate across Canada. More recently, however, momentum in the sector has softened amid ongoing trade disruptions, which continue to pose a risk to demand for industrial space. According to Statistics Canada, approximately half of manufacturers reported being affected by tariffs through various channels, most notably price increases and higher expenses for raw materials.

“The industrial sector has consistently demonstrated its resilience. While there are ongoing economic risks tied to trade policy, tariffs and broader global uncertainty, demand for well-located, functional industrial space remains strong. This is especially true in logistics- and trade-connected markets, where proximity to transportation corridors, ports and population centres continues to drive occupier interest,” said Jacques.

“Looking ahead, a slowdown in new construction and ongoing supply chain realignment will support market balance. As businesses prioritize efficiency and speed to market, the creation of modern industrial facilities will remain a critical component of Canada’s commercial real estate landscape.”

Nearly half (47%) of Royal LePage commercial market experts expect occupier demand for industrial space to increase in their respective markets in 2026.

Read the full press release and review the data chart for more details:

NATIONAL PRESS RELEASE

DATA CHART

New normal for Metro Vancouver’s housing market continues

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 15:01:41 GMT

Contact Taverna Real Estate Group for details of your neighbourhood

Metro Vancouver home sales registered on the MLS® in February continued the recent trend of slower-than-average sales, seeing a ten per cent decline over the same period last year.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 1,648 in February 2026, a 9.8 per cent decrease from the 1,827 sales recorded in February 2025. This was 28.7 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,310).

“With each passing data point, the pace of sales running well-below long-term averages are no longer a surprise – it’s become the new norm,” said Andrew Lis, GVR chief economist and vice-president data analytics. “A surprising finding this February, however, is that home sellers appear less eager to list their homes relative to last year with new listings down about seven percent, mostly driven by fewer listings in the apartment segment.”

There were 4,734 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in February 2026. This represents a 6.4 per cent decrease compared to the 5,057 properties listed in February 2025. This was 7.1 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (4,421).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 13,545, a 6.3 per cent increase compared to February 2025 (12,744). This is 37 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (9,886).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for February 2026 is 12.6 per cent. By property type, the ratio is nine per cent for detached homes, 16.6 per cent for attached, and 14.1 per cent for apartments.

“With fewer sellers coming to market with their properties than last year, a pick-up in demand heading into the spring could result in a stagnation of standing inventory, which may support prices around current levels,” Lis said. “With sales slightly outpacing our 2026 forecast year-to-date, the spring market will be the litmus test of whether we continue along this new normal, or if we see any significant surprises.”

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,100,300. This represents a 6.8 per cent decrease over February 2025 and a 0.1 per cent decrease compared to January 2026.

Sales of detached homes in February 2026 reached 427, a 10.5 per cent decrease from the 477 detached sales recorded in February 2025. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,835,900. This represents an 8.8 per cent decrease from February 2025 and a 0.8 per cent decrease compared to January 2026.

Sales of apartment homes reached 824 in February 2026, a 15.6 per cent decrease compared to the 976 sales in February 2025. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $708,200. This represents a 6.8 per cent decrease from February 2025 and a 0.5 per cent increase compared to January 2026.

Attached home sales in February 2026 totalled 387, a 7.8 per cent increase compared to the 359 sales in February 2025. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,046,100. This represents a 5.6 per cent decrease from February 2025 and a 0.3 per cent increase compared to January 2026.

Download GVR's February 2026 MLS® Housing Market Report

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Wed, 04 Mar 2026 02:31:12 GMT

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Wed, 04 Mar 2026 02:26:51 GMT

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New normal for Metro Vancouver’s housing market continues

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:13:11 GMT

February 2025

1,827

Sold

February 2026

1,648

Sold

(-9.8%)

Residential property sales in Metro Vancouver

Metro Vancouver* home sales registered on the MLS® in February continued the recent trend of slower-than-average sales, seeing a ten per cent decline over the same period last year.

"With each passing data point, the pace of sales running well-below long-term averages are no longer a surprise – it’s become the new norm. A surprising finding this February, however, is that home sellers appear less eager to list their homes relative to last year with new listings down about seven percent, mostly driven by fewer listings in the apartment segment." Andrew Lis, GVR chief economist and vice-president data analytics

Sales-to-Active Listings Ratio - February 2026

Detached

Attached

16.6%

Apartment

14.1%

Total 12.6%

‘Cambodia Challenge for Shelter’ trekkers conquer epic hiking adventure

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 22:51:31 GMT

When participants in the Cambodia Challenge for Shelter signed up to take part in the Royal LePage® Shelter Foundation™’s 2025 fundraising trek, they knew they’d be tested. That’s the point, afterall – to step outside your comfort zone, to do something big, bold and brave. To see what you’re made of when circumstances get challenging.

And challenged they were. The struggles in the Cambodian wilderness came quickly and harshly for the 117 adventurous Royal LePage® professionals who travelled across the globe to participate.

After being blessed by local monks, trekkers nervously set out on the first of nearly 100km they had ahead of them. Every step was hiked in sweltering temperatures and stifling humidity which made the days feel impossibly long. Debilitating blisters and painful heat rashes kept trekkers busy nursing their sore feet and itchy legs. And unforgiving jet lag had trekkers up at all hours of the night, fighting to get the rest they so desperately needed.

“We hiked through oppressive jungle heat and along treacherous mud trails; slept with exotic things that slithered, croaked and climbed; and got comfortable with a whole lot of doubt — and we did it together,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO of Royal LePage. “I’m proud of this crew for pushing through a punishing challenge in Cambodia, and grateful for every donor who backed us,” he added. “Every step we took raised money for our beloved Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. This wasn’t just a trek. It was a statement: we walk so others have a path toward safety and new beginnings.”

https://blog.royallepage.ca/cambodia-challenge-for-shelter-trekkers-conquer-epic-hiking-adventure/

Thankfully, the majestic views and an incredibly varied terrain made the time pass a bit more quickly. Participants trekked through dazzling green rice paddies and small villages, slept at beautiful temples and pagodos, ventured into the thick jungle, climbed to the top of Cambodia’s sacred mountain, and marveled at the Kulen waterfall. Spectacular monuments to Buddhism seemed to be around every turn before reaching the architectural masterpiece of Angkor Wat.

And finally – after five long days – a local band performed a traditional folk song, dancing the trekkers jubilantly across the finish line. Hugging and high-fiving, participants had a great deal to celebrate on top of their physical and mental accomplishment. Ultimately, this incredible team of fundraisers collected $1.6 million for the cause, bringing the grand total raised through the ‘Challenge for Shelter’ series to over $6.3 million.

A bi-annual fundraiser, the Cambodia Challenge for Shelter follows in the footsteps of Royal LePage Shelter Foundation treks in Ecuador (2023), the Purcell Mountains (2021), Sahara Desert (2019), Iceland (2017), and Machu Picchu (2015). Participants pay 100% of their trekking and travel costs and must raise at least $6,000 to be eligible to take part.

The Challenge for Shelter is proudly sponsored by TD, Royal LePage, Real Estate Magazine, and Die Slo Sauces. To learn more about the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation or to make a donation, visit rlp.ca/shelter.

Protecting Your Digital Life at Home

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 22:50:21 GMT

As homes become more connected, everyday security looks a little different.

From smart thermostats to voice assistants and doorbell cameras, our homes are more connected than ever. While these devices make daily life easier, they also come with a few new responsibilities. The good news is that keeping your digital home secure doesn’t require expert-level tech skills, just a few simple habits that go a long way. It’s mostly about tightening a few settings and staying aware of what’s connected.

Start by resetting your Wi-Fi network with a strong, unique password and turn on your router’s built-in security features (like WPA2/WPA3) if they aren’t already enabled.

Take a moment to check which devices are connected to your network and remove anything you no longer recognize or use. The updates you get prompted to install often contain important security fixes that protect your system from potential risks.

If you use smart security cameras, make sure they’re encrypted and protected with two-factor authentication for an extra layer of safety.

Consider setting up a separate guest Wi-Fi network for visitors or smart devices. It’s an easy way to add a layer of protection between your personal information and everything else that connects to your network.

Don’t forget to do a digital spring cleaning on your phone or tablet too. Turn off features you don’t need, like automatic microphone access or location tracking, and limit how much data apps can collect. Delete old apps or accounts you no longer use, clear out saved passwords you don’t recognize, and double-check privacy settings on shared devices. It’s the digital version of clearing out your junk drawer, quick, satisfying, and surprisingly effective.

If you share your home with kids, teach them simple digital habits early on, like logging out of shared devices, using secure passwords, and asking before downloading new apps. These small lessons can make a big difference in keeping everyone’s information safe.

By treating digital safety like any other kind of home maintenance, checking, updating, and securing as you go, you can enjoy all the benefits of a connected home while keeping your personal world protected.

Smart Money Moves for a Changing Economy

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 22:49:29 GMT

Small, mindful choices at home can make a big difference for your wallet and your peace of mind.

With costs shifting across nearly every part of daily life, homeowners are finding new ways to make their money stretch further. Not through drastic changes, but with small, mindful habits that add up over time. Start with what you already have.

Plan meals around what’s in your pantry and what’s in season in your area. It’s one of the simplest ways to cut costs and reduce waste. Cooking more intentionally can also spark creativity in the kitchen, whether that means trying a new recipe with leftover ingredients or swapping takeout for a night of homemade comfort food.

A few low-effort upgrades can make a big difference. Motion-sensor or timer-based lighting, adding a smart power bar that automatically shuts off idle devices, or upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat can noticeably reduce energy bills. Appliances and fixtures are a good place to start when thinking about efficiency. If you’re due for a replacement, energy-efficient appliances or water-saving fixtures tend to pay for themselves faster than most expect.

Beyond the bills, think about where your time and money go. Borrow tools from a local library, friend, or neighbour instead of buying new, host a clothing or home décor swap with friends, or repurpose items you already own for new uses. Over time, these small, practical choices can help keep bigger, more expensive surprises at bay.

Financial mindfulness doesn’t mean giving up the things that make you happy. It means being a little more intentional about how you spend money and what really adds value to your day-to-day life.

Home as a Creative Outlet: Why More Homeowners Are Choosing DIY

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 22:48:06 GMT

The simple pleasure of creating something yourself.

Homeowners are continuing to lean into hands-on projects: fixing, painting, building, and creating for the simple satisfaction of it. These small projects do more than improve a home; they remind people that they’re capable of shaping it with their own two hands.

It can start as simply as giving new life to vintage furniture. Check your local second-hand shop or ask friends and family if they have pieces they’re ready to part with. A chair or side table waiting for a refresh can easily become a weekend project.

Painting is an easy way to express creativity at home, whether that means rolling a bold new colour onto a statement wall or painting a canvas just for fun. You don’t need fancy supplies to get started. Affordable brushes, a few tubes of paint, or a small can from your local craft or hardware store are all you need to explore. If you like guidance, there are endless YouTube tutorials to follow, or you can turn on your favourite playlist and see where your imagination takes you.

Gardening is another creative outlet gaining momentum. Many homeowners are sketching out garden plans, jotting down plant ideas, or starting with a few herb pots by the window. Growing your own mint, chamomile, or lavender for tea adds both beauty and comfort to everyday life.

If you’re drawn to nature but gardening isn’t your thing, try pressing flowers or leaves to create framed artwork that keeps the season’s beauty alive all year long.

From painting and upcycling to candle-making, woodworking, or textile crafts, these projects share a common theme: they reconnect us to the joy of doing. In a world that moves fast, creating something by hand invites us to slow down, try something new, and take pride in what we can make ourselves.

Canada’s housing market anticipates a cautious spring rebound

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 22:47:06 GMT

According to the Royal LePage House® Price Survey and Market Forecast, the aggregate1 price of a home in Canada decreased 1.5 per cent year over year to $807,200 in the fourth quarter of 2025. On a quarter-over-quarter basis, the national aggregate home price posted a similar decline of 1.1 per cent. When broken out by housing type, the national median price of a single-family detached home decreased modestly by 0.8 per cent year over year to $849,100, while the median price of a condominium decreased 2.9 per cent to $575,300.

“Despite subdued activity levels, home prices largely held their ground in the final quarter of 2025,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage. “Economic uncertainty – driven by trade disputes and broader geopolitical tensions – has weighed on consumer confidence and muted what is typically a more active fall market. Instead of a fall seasonal surge, we saw a quieter close to the year.

“That said, buyers heading into the spring market have a meaningful advantage over last year: lower borrowing costs, stable or lower property prices, and choice. In an era where home inventory is chronically constrained, inventory levels are Goldilocks healthy. Together, these conditions are creating a genuine window of opportunity, particularly for first-time buyers in Canada’s most expensive markets.”

In December, Royal LePage issued its 2026 Market Survey Forecast, projecting that the aggregate price of a home in Canada will increase a modest 1.0 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2026, compared to the same quarter in 2025. The median price of a single-family detached property is expected to increase 2.0 per cent, while the median price of a condominium is anticipated to decrease 2.5 per cent.

“What continues to be a drag on the housing market is consumer confidence. Greater clarity on trade relations with the United States would certainly help, but there’s also a more subtle shift underway,” said Soper. “After a full year of economic and political turbulence, more and more households have given up waiting for perfect certainty and are refocusing on what is happening at home, and what matters most: securing the right housing for their families. As that adjustment takes hold, we expect it to gradually translate into increased market participation.”

Learn more:

National release: rlp.ca/Q4-2025-hps-release
Quebec Markets release: rlp.ca/Q4-2025-hps-release-QC
House Price Survey Chart: rlp.ca/house-prices-Q4-2025
Market Survey Forecast Chart: rlp.ca/market-forecast-Q4-2025

1 Aggregate prices are calculated using a weighted average of the median values of all housing types collected. Data is provided by RPS Real Property Solutions and includes both resale and new build.

Cambodia Challenge for Shelter: Trekkers complete an unforgettable journey

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:35:47 GMT

And challenged they were. The struggles in the Cambodian wilderness came quickly and harshly for the 117 adventurous Royal LePage® professionals who travelled across the globe to participate.

Keeping them going each day were stories of tragedy and survival. Every afternoon, a personal account of intimate partner violence was read aloud, each one experienced and written by a fellow trekker. These moments were both heartbreaking and healing and a daily reminder of everyone’s collective mission to help women and children find the safety, hope and healing they deserve.

“Reading these powerful letters each day recentered us,” said Tory Brown with Royal LePage® Estate Realty in Toronto, ON. “The brutal heat almost took me down on the first day. I truly had moments when I didn’t think I could go on. But after hearing the account of abuse and resilience experienced by someone walking alongside me, I knew I had to keep going. To keep hiking and to keep fundraising so that other women don’t need to experience this senseless violence.”

s vehicle access was impossible along the rural route, a primitive farm tractor followed behind each group, carrying essential supplies. At the frequent rest stops, trekkers poured water over their heads and onto their necks and wrists in an attempt to cool down – if only for a few brief, but blissful moments. Always careful to keep their feet dry, boots came off quickly at each lunch stop, allowing trekkers to nervously check for signs of trouble and re-bandage any existing blisters before facing more hours of hiking in the punishing conditions.

Moving displays of camaraderie were on full display throughout the adventure. Carrying each other’s packs, sharing gear and first aid supplies, and offering a helpful hand, a pat on the back or a much-needed laugh were all daily occurrences. With the hiking taking place in four waves of participants spread three days apart on the trail, trekkers also welcomed the opportunity to leave notes for the groups which would follow them. These short, but powerful messages were a bright spot for those who needed them most and a beautiful opportunity for reflection and encouragement for those who left them.

As is always the case during the ‘Challenge for Shelter’ treks, new friendships were fast to form and existing bonds were strengthened on the trail. Doing something difficult has a magical way of bringing people of all walks of life together and making deeply meaningful connections.

“We come from cities, small towns, farms, villages—every corner of Canada,” said Ken Hrubeniuk with Royal LePage® Wright Choice Realty in Wainwright, AB. “We laugh together. We cry together. We cheer one another on. And somewhere along the way, we stop being a group and become a family. These bonds last a lifetime and they help you stand a little taller, smile a little brighter, and say with pride: ‘I am a Trekker.”

hankfully, the majestic views and an incredibly varied terrain made the time pass a bit more quickly. Participants trekked through dazzling green rice paddies and small villages, slept at beautiful temples and pagodos, ventured into the thick jungle, climbed to the top of Cambodia’s sacred mountain, and marveled at the Kulen waterfall. Spectacular monuments to Buddhism seemed to be around every turn before reaching the architectural masterpiece of Angkor Wat.

As they pushed themselves physically and emotionally through the Challenge, trekkers were delighted by a Khmer culture many knew little about before landing in Siem Reap. A country with a devastating past, Cambodians have emerged from years of turbulence and trauma with a resilience and hope that trekkers found inspiring. Those caring for the team as guides, camp crew and cooking staff were remarkably kind and excited to show off both their country and their unmatched hospitality.

“From the very first step, the generosity of the Cambodian people was everywhere. Smiles, waves, high-fives, and letting us rest in the shade of their humble properties. It was a constant reminder of the importance of community,” said Maria Barreiro with Royal LePage® Atlantic in Halifax, NS.

I feel so much gratitude having completed this trek. I’m thankful for each and every donor who supported me and our mission to make home a safe place for everyone,” said Coccia. “My amazing team and brokerage were also instrumental in this fundraising success, so I’d like to share this recognition with them. Lastly, I want to thank my trekmates for their kindness and care on the trail. There’s just no way to explain how special it was to cross the finish line together.”

2025 Team of the Year: Taverna Real Estate Group, Royal LePage® West Real Estate Services

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:26:38 GMT

Canadian housing market kicks off 2026 with a surge of new listings: CREA

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:24:06 GMT

Sellers made a strong entrance into the 2026 housing market. While home sales slowed compared to December, a surge of fresh listings signaled renewed confidence among homeowners, according to the latest report from the Canadian Real Estate Association. The influx of new supply has already begun to shift market dynamics, setting the tone for the early months of the year.

The number of home sales recorded over Canadian MLS® Systems fell 5.8% on a month over month basis in January. At the same time, new listings surged 7.3% compared to December as sellers appeared eager to kick off the year. The early year momentum from sellers suggests confidence and readiness to move, even as buyers showed slightly more restraint.

“The monthly decline in national home sales was driven primarily by less activity in the Greater Golden Horseshoe and Southwestern Ontario, suggesting that the story was probably more about a historic winter storm than a downshift in demand,” said Shaun Cathcart, CREA’s Senior Economist, in the report. “Notwithstanding the chilly start to the year, we continue to expect 2026 will ultimately be defined by pent-up demand from first-time buyers finally seeing a chance to enter the market.”

Major cities lead the supply surge

There were 140,680 properties listed for sale on all Canadian MLS® Systems at the end of January 2026. That figure is 4.5% higher than a year earlier, although still 11.4% below the long term average for this time of year.

Months of inventory rose to 4.9 months nationally, up from 4.6 months at the end of December. The long term average for this measure is five months. Historically, a seller’s market would sit below 3.6 months of inventory, while a buyer’s market would be above 6.4 months. January’s activity puts the market very close to long term norms, marking a notable transition toward more balanced conditions.

The increase in new listings was broad based, with roughly two-thirds of local markets reporting gains. The strongest activity was concentrated in Montreal, Quebec City, Calgary, Greater Vancouver, and Victoria, where sellers came out in force.

In contrast, Central and Southwestern Ontario were much quieter. Many markets in those regions recorded declines in both sales and new listings. Winter weather appears to have played a role, suppressing both demand and supply in those areas.

“We always say all real estate is local, and on occasion, including this January, that can mean the impact of local weather on the market,” said Valérie Paquin, CREA’s Chair, in the report. “In a repeat of 2025, new listings are showing up early to start the year, so sellers are eager to get going, but we may have to wait a bit longer to see how buyers react.”

Market balance shifts in January

With a sizable increase in listings and a sharp slowdown in sales, the national sales-to-new-listings ratio dropped to 45% in January. That is down from 51.3% at the end of 2025 and below the long term average of 54.8%.

A ratio between 45% and 65% is generally considered consistent with balanced housing market conditions. January’s reading places the market right at the lower edge of that balanced range, signaling a clear shift from the tighter conditions seen late last year.

Prices adjust as supply expands

With more homes available and demand softening, prices edged lower in January. The National Composite MLS® Home Price Index declined 0.9% on a month over month basis.

On a non-seasonally-adjusted basis, the index was down 4.9% compared to January 2025. The non seasonally adjusted national average home price came in at $652,941, dipping 2.6% year over year.

Regionally, British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario continue to show year over year price declines, offsetting gains in other provinces. Some cities experienced particularly sharp adjustments, with double digit declines in Hamilton Burlington and Oakville Milton. At the same time, double digit gains were recorded in Sudbury, Quebec City, and St. John’s, Newfoundland, highlighting the uneven nature of price trends across the country.

208 2110 ROWLAND STREET PORT COQUITLAM

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:22:44 GMT

$995,000

Welcome Home! Fabulous 3 level townhome in Port Coquitlam. Bright & spacious home with 3 bedrooms+playroom+office+den is perfect for a growing family. Large living & dining area, galley kitchen with granite counters+ S/S appliances+pantry. Eating area nook. 2-piece powder room finishes the main floor.Updated vinyl flooring on 2nd & 3rd floors+stairs. Top floor has large primary bedroom+walk-in closet+ensuite with double sinks+walk-in shower+soaker tub. Private sundeck with artificial turf for relaxing on at the end of the day. BBQ deck overlooking private garden, the park & beautiful views of the mountains.Close to all levels of schools.Easy access to transit & highway.2 underground parking spots+private storage room.Don’t miss this beauty. Call your Realtor to set up a private showing.

Fabulous Townhome in the heart of Maple Ridge

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:20:58 GMT

16-20699 120B Maple Ridge $699,900

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY MARCH 8th 2:00-4:00

WELCOME to the GATEWAY COMPLEX, nestled in a quiet family friendly neighbourhood in NW Maple Ridge. END UNIT townhome is barely connected to the unit next door. Enjoy the large living room with the wood-burning fireplace. Kitchen with S/S appliances. FENCED back yard &patio for your little ones or Fido. Large primary bedroom has a walk-in closet & cheater door to the updated 5-piece main bath. 2nd good size bed with walk in closet plus the open den area, perfect for home office/reading nook. Garage + open 2nd parking. Updated MULTI-SPLIT HEATING & COOLING SYSTEM in 3 zones. All POLY B has been removed from the complex & replaced with PEX+NEW watermain/all NEW asphalt paving. 2 pets allowed. Enjoy sitting on the veranda. Easy access transit/shopping/schools. Fall in love with me...

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY MARCH 28th 2:00-4:00pm

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:17:57 GMT

1250 Delta Ave Burnaby BC $1,795,000.00

Welcome Home 1250 Delta Ave in the very popular Brentwood Park Neighbourhood. 4 bed & 3 bath home with Brentwood Park Elementary & Alpha Secondary close by. Good size main floor with large living room, sliders off the dining room to the large sundeck. Kitchen has cook top & a wall oven.Convenient laundry off kitchen.The bedrooms are a good size. Hardwood flooring through much of main level. Lower level has a rec room +bedroom+ den area possible 2nd kitchen & laundry area.Lots of storage & a whole lot more. Great yard for children & Fido. Lane access with a double garage & open parking for many vehicles.May have the ability to have a suite for extended family, check with city. Brentwood Centre & Skytrain close by. OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY MARCH 28th 2:00-4:00pm. See you there!

How to maximize your bathroom storage

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:19:18 GMT

Small bathrooms work hard, from handling morning routines, to evening wind-downs and everything in between. Yet, they’re often the rooms that struggle the most with storage. If your countertop feels crowded or your vanity is overflowing, a few simple organizational upgrades can make a dramatic difference. With the right small bathroom storage ideas and layout tweaks, you can create a space that feels calm, functional and beautifully put together.

Here are practical, design-forward ways to maximize storage in a small bathroom and bring more order to your daily routine.

Swap traditional cabinets for smart drawers

If you’re planning an update, deep drawers can outperform standard cabinets in almost every way. They pull out fully, making it easier to see what you own and to store items upright instead of piling them. A custom notched top drawer can fit around your sink plumbing, turning awkward space into usable storage for makeup, skincare or grooming tools.

Working with existing cabinetry? Use adhesive hooks or slim organizers on the inside of cabinet doors to hold brushes, hand mirrors, small bottles and other grab-and-go items.

Choose a mirror that doubles as hidden storage

A medicine-cabinet mirror is one of the easiest ways to add storage without taking up floor space. These mirrors discreetly house everyday essentials, like cotton pads, dental care products, first-aid items and hair accessories, keeping the room looking clean and uncluttered.

For a more modern feel, consider a frameless design or a mirror with built-in LED lighting.

Prioritize what you actually use

In a small bathroom, minimizing what you store is just as important as adding new storage. Clear out expired products, relocate bulk cleaning supplies and move large packs of toilet paper to a hallway closet or basement.

Keep a few spare rolls accessible by placing them in a decorative basket on the toilet tank or a shelf. This frees up valuable under-sink space and gives the room a tidier look.

Maximize vertical space and overlooked walls

When floor space is limited, think up, not out. Install floating shelves or a compact cabinet above the toilet to house towels, guest toiletries, backup products or items you don’t reach for every day.

If you have an unused corner, a ladder shelf or a slim vertical tower creates storage without crowding the room.

Bring order to the inside of your cabinets and drawers

The secret to long-term organization often happens behind the scenes. Use stackable bins, drawer dividers, pull-out organizers or tiered trays to group similar items and maximize vertical space. Clear containers make it easy to see when you’re running low on essentials.

Add clever storage helpers

These simple additions can make a big difference in a small bathroom:

Over-the-door organizers for towels, robes or hot tools
Shower niches or hanging caddies to keep bottles off ledges
Magnetic strips for bobby pins, tweezers and grooming tools
Slim rolling carts that tuck into tight gaps between fixtures
Compact, wall-mounted hampers to eliminate bulky laundry baskets

Create a spa-inspired atmosphere

Once everything has a place, add a few visual touches that make your bathroom feel more relaxing:

Use warm, soft lighting and neutral colours
Incorporate plants or simple greenery
Choose matching storage containers for a seamless look
Add a plush bath mat or upgraded towels for a luxe finish

Your bathroom doesn’t need a full renovation to feel refreshed, just thoughtful storage choices, smart organization and a few well-placed design elements.

Just Listed 208 - 2110 Rowland Street Port Coquitlam

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:17:04 GMT

Fabulous 3 level townhome located in the heart of Port Coquitlam. This bright & spacious home with 3 bedrooms+playroom+office+den is perfect for a growing family.

Large living & dining area, galley kitchen with granite counters+ S/S appliances+pantry. Eating area nook. 2-piece powder room finishes the main floor. Above main has a laundry closet & 4-piece bath.

Top floor has large primary bedroom, walk-in closet & ensuite with double sinks+walk-in shower+soaker tub. Plus, private sundeck for relaxing on at the end of the day.

BBQ deck overlooking private garden, park a beautiful view of the mountains. Close to all levels of schools. Easy access to transit & highway. 2 underground parking spots + private storage room.

Don’t miss this beauty…

Listed at $995,000.00

A perfect gift for Valentines Day

Overnight lending rate remains at 2.25% following Bank of Canada’s first decision of 2026

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:09:09 GMT

Second straight hold keeps borrowing costs unchanged for Canadians

Today, in its first announcement of 2026, the Bank of Canada opted to hold the target for the overnight lending rate at 2.25%. This marks the second consecutive hold to interest rates.

Ongoing United States trade restrictions and geopolitical uncertainty continue to weigh on Canada’s economic growth and dampen consumer confidence. At the same time, inflation has remained relatively stable, giving the Bank of Canada room to maintain its current policy stance. Holding interest rates steady reflects a cautious approach as the Canadian economy adjusts to evolving economic conditions, balancing the need to support growth while keeping inflation firmly under control.

“The Canadian economy is adjusting to the structural headwinds of US protectionism. Businesses are reconfiguring supply chains and investing in new markets. We also expect to see some reallocation of capital and workers as new opportunities open up. This restructuring, including more diversified trade and a more integrated internal market, will support some recovery in our productive capacity. But it will all take some time,” said Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, in a press conference with reporters following the announcement.

“Monetary policy cannot compensate for the structural damage caused by tariffs, and it cannot target hard-hit sectors of the economy. But it can play a supporting role, helping the economy through this period of structural change, while maintaining inflation close to the 2% target.”

Canada’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 2.4% year over year in December, up from 2.2% in November, largely due to the federal government’s GST/HST holiday tax break that ran from December 2024 through February 2025, a temporary factor that distorted year-over-year comparisons. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate held steady in December, following three consecutive months of employment gains in September, October and November.

Rates hold steady as consumers prepare for spring market

As 2025 came to a close, Canada’s central bank signalled a shift toward supporting economic growth, with inflation now within its desired neutral range. With the next rate decision set for March, just ahead of the spring housing market, consumers are likely to see borrowing costs remain stable.

“Borrowing rates have moved back toward a more neutral setting – neither stimulating nor acting as a drag on economic activity. That’s a return to more normal conditions. Rates can still move modestly in either direction depending on how the economy evolves, but the most likely scenario is a period of stability,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO of Royal LePage®. “For homebuyers and those approaching a mortgage renewal, stability matters. It provides greater certainty around financing costs and allows households to make housing decisions based on need and affordability, rather than trying to time interest rate moves.”

According to the Royal LePage House Price Survey and Market Forecast, the aggregate1 price of a home in Canada decreased 1.5% year over year to $807,200 in the fourth quarter of 2025. On a quarter-over-quarter basis, the national aggregate home price posted a similar decline of 1.1%, reflecting softer market conditions and persistent buyer caution that weighed on activity during the traditionally active fall season.

The Bank of Canada will make its next interest rate announcement on March 18th, 2026.

Planning to buy a home this spring? Here’s what you can do now to prepare yourself.

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:07:32 GMT

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and preparation can make all the difference. Before you start booking showings or scrolling listings late into the night, taking a few key steps upfront can help you shop with clarity, confidence, and a competitive edge.

In a market where inventory can be limited and competition can increase during the peak spring season, being prepared isn’t just helpful – it’s strategic. Here’s how to set yourself up for success before you begin your home search.

Start with a clear wishlist

Before looking at homes, take time to define what you actually need versus what would simply be nice to have. Create a list and rank your priorities.

Consider the essentials first:

Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
Parking requirements
Layout preferences (single-level vs. multi-level, open concept vs. defined spaces)
Accessibility needs now and in the future

Then think beyond the walls of the home:

Proximity to work, schools, parks, restaurants, or transit
Access to community amenities or places of worship
Commute times and lifestyle fit

Be honest about what you’re willing to compromise on and what’s non-negotiable. This clarity will save time and reduce frustration later.

Narrow down the right neighbourhoods

Where you live matters just as much as the home itself. One of the biggest decisions buyers face is choosing the right neighbourhood, and in some cases, affordability may require flexibility.

If your preferred area is out of reach, expanding your search to nearby neighbourhoods or emerging communities can open up new options. A real estate professional can help identify areas that align with both your lifestyle priorities and your budget.

Find the right real estate agent early

While online listings are a great starting point, there’s no substitute for working with an experienced real estate professional. The right agent brings deep local market knowledge, negotiation expertise, and guidance through every step of the process.

They can:

Help refine your search based on real-time market conditions
Flag opportunities and potential concerns you might miss
Guide you through offers, conditions, and timelines
Assist with selling your current home, if applicable

Finding an agent early means you’re not navigating these decisions alone.

Build a realistic budget

Before committing to a price range, take a close look at your full financial picture. This goes beyond what a lender may say you qualify for.

Factor in:

Monthly mortgage payments
Property taxes and utilities
Insurance and ongoing maintenance
One-time costs like closing fees, land transfer taxes, moving expenses, and potential renovations
Other regular debt repayments, such as car and student loans
Contributions to RRSPs, RESPs and other long-term savings plans
Your lifestyle and the expenses that come with it, such as childcare, pet care, vacations, and discretionary spending

The goal is to feel comfortable – not stretched – once the purchase is complete.

Get pre-approved for a mortgage

Mortgage pre-approval is one of the strongest tools you can have as a buyer. Once you know your down payment amount and monthly comfort level, a mortgage professional can provide a written pre-approval outlining what you can afford.

This step:

Clarifies your true buying power
Helps you act quickly when the right home appears
Strengthens your offer in competitive situations
May reduce or eliminate the need for a financing condition

In fast-moving markets, a pre-approval can be the difference between securing a home and missing out.

Buying a home starts long before your first showing. By getting organized, building the right team, and understanding your priorities and finances upfront, you will be in a much stronger position to succeed.