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.”

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.

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. Raising over $56,000 and earning the title of this year’s Top Fundraiser was David Coccia with the Capstone Real Estate Professionals at Royal LePage® Royal City Realty in Guelph, ON.

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.”

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. Those interested in participating in a future trek should stay tuned next year for the announcement of the top-secret destination for 2027.

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.

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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.

16-20699 120B Maple Ridge $699,900

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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...

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!

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.

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.

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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.

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.

As home design trends continue to shift toward warmth and personal expression, 2026’s leading paint colours offer a refreshing break from the cool, minimalist palettes of recent years. This year, we’re seeing a strong return to earthy neutrals, rich jewel tones, and nature-inspired hues, colours that evoke calm, sophistication, and depth. 

Whether you’re planning a full home refresh or looking to add modern accents, these trending shades are designed to bring style and balance to any space.

Pantone: Cloud Dancer (11-4201)

Soft, serene, and effortlessly adaptable, Pantone’s 2026 Colour of the Year brings a gentle clarity to interior spaces. Its warm undertone sets it apart from cooler whites, offering a subtle elegance that pairs beautifully with both muted earth tones and bolder accent colours. In living rooms, it creates a light, open atmosphere that enhances natural light and evokes a sense of calm. 

In kitchens, it creates a clean, refined look, especially when used on cabinetry or walls alongside wood finishes or brushed metal accents. This shade’s versatility makes it an ideal choice for creating interiors that feel both fresh and timeless.

Behr: Hidden Gem (N430-6A)

Rich and quietly bold, this refined blue-green brings a sense of depth and tranquility to interiors. With its smoky, jewel-toned quality, this shade offers versatility across a range of design styles – from modern minimalism to classic comfort. It makes a striking statement on walls or cabinetry, especially when paired with warm neutrals, natural textures, or soft metallic finishes. Whether used as an anchor in a monochromatic palette or as a sophisticated contrast to lighter tones, it adds character while maintaining a sense of calm.

Sherwin-Williams: Universal Khaki (SW 6150)

Universal Khaki is a warm, earthy neutral that embodies timeless simplicity and effortless versatility. This mid‑tone tan carries gentle undertones that bridge beige and green, giving it a balanced warmth that works beautifully in a wide range of settings. It’s designed to serve as a reliable foundation hue that enhances both modern and classic interiors, creating a calming backdrop that pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone as well as richer accent colors.

Benjamin Moore: Silhouette (AF-655)

Drawing from a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship and timeless style, Benjamin Moore’s Silhouette is a deep, sophisticated neutral that blends rich espresso tones with subtle charcoal undertones, creating a hue that feels both refined and grounded. It was inspired by classic tailored suiting and the enduring appeal of well‑made wardrobe staples, resulting in a colour that brings warmth and quiet elegance to interiors without overwhelming them. 

Whether used to anchor a living room, add depth to cabinetry or create contrast with lighter accents, this versatile shade integrates seamlessly into contemporary and traditional spaces alike, and is complemented by a curated 2026 palette designed for layered, harmonious looks.

Valspar: Warm Eucalyptus (8004‑28F)

This naturally restorative green is grounded in warm, muted tones that evoke both comfort and tranquility. Inspired by vintage palettes and outdoor influences, this soft green strikes a balance between serene sophistication and timeless appeal, making it flexible enough for full‑room applications or accent details. Whether used to color‑drench a bedroom for a calming retreat or refresh cabinetry in living spaces and kitchens, Warm Eucalyptus brings a sense of nostalgia and harmony that aligns with a growing desire for more intentional, nature‑rooted design.

Glidden: Warm Mahogany (PPG 1060-7)

For 2026, Glidden’s featured hue reflects a shift toward richer, more expressive colour in interior design, embracing warmth and personality over cool minimalism. This deeply saturated red‑terra tone brings a sense of comfort, depth, and timeless expression to rooms, making it suitable for spaces where connection and character matter, from cozy dining areas and intimate living rooms to accent walls that anchor a scheme. It pairs beautifully with natural textures like wood and leather, as well as soft metallics, providing both a dramatic focal point and a grounded backdrop that works with a broad range of décor styles.