Category: First Time Buyer

Can mortgage costs fall in 2026 – and by how much?

Predicting the fate of the real estate market in America for 2026 is probably more precarious than in recent years with prices continuing to hit record highs, mortgage costs challenging buyers and the direction of the economy uncertain. One of the most influential factors for 2026 will be the cost of money.  How low will…
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‘Showdown’ slowing the market recovery, says RBC

Do we have a “stand-off” between buyers and sellers in the Canadian real estate market with neither side willing to compromise – the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) certainly thinks so. The latest housing data released by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) has prompted the RBC to speculate that neither buyer nor seller is…
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Ahead of brighter 2026, retreat blamed on tariffs and buyer caution

Canadian real estate didn’t finish 2025 with a bang, which would have been as surprising as it would have been welcome! For owners and buyers, it’s been a helter-skelter 12 months marked by American tariffs on core industries and the uncertainty of job security and the future in general. In this scenario, cities such as…
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Flooring options that may make you think twice

Choosing the right floor for your home is such an important decision because it sets the tone for design and comfort. Most of us make this type of decision so few times in our lives, it’s difficult to be confident we’re making the right selection without lots of research and advice. Another challenge is that…
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Eight tips for inspecting a new rental property

If you’re an aspiring first-home buyer trying to save for a deposit while renting, this time of year is often an ideal opportunity to re-evaluate your accommodation. With many leases expiring, anecdotal evidence suggests a lot of renters are seeking arrangements that last longer than 12 months to give them stability and rent-cost predictability.  When…
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Buyers to prioritize money-saving green tech in 2026

If you’re thinking about listing your property this year, you’ll need to go beyond the purely decorative touches and a neatly trimmed garden that you’ve been told will win over buyers.  This year, the housing market will slowly undergo a shift of emphasis with a greater focus on green-related efficiencies rather than pure luxury, such…
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Top seven features buyers want in 2026, according to Realtors

No buyer is the same – each one has their own priorities and preferences as they walk through the front door of your house or apartment. Their idea of perfect living will always align to their lifestyle. So, no matter how much effort you put into preparing your home for sale, the majority of buyers…
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Seven tips to make your bedroom a tranquil oasis

Is it time for a makeover in the main bedroom of your home? Has the space ever felt like an oasis of tranquility? Or maybe it’s stressing you out because it’s so dull. Bedroom makeovers can be simple and quick so long as you have a vision. A successful plan will transform your bedroom into…
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Buyers to prioritize money-saving green tech in 2026

If you’re thinking about listing your property this year, forget the purely decorative touches and a neatly trimmed garden that you’ve been told will win over buyers.  The housing market appears to be undergoing a seismic shift, and the new currency of home value is efficiency.  This year, buyers will be increasingly focused on their…
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How the 50-year mortgage idea includes a big bill

If you spend even a small amount of time following politics, you’ll no doubt have noticed the hundreds of ideas and schemes that continue to emerge from the White House. Some stick, some disappear and others come around for a second go. The recent proposal to consider 50-year mortgages created conversation in the real estate…
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