As inflation continues to impact the Canadian economy, many homeowners and prospective buyers are reevaluating their mortgage choices. The Bank of Canada's series of interest rate hikes has led to increased borrowing costs, prompting a shift in mortgage preferences. Fixed-rate mortgages, particularly those with shorter terms, are gaining popularity as Canadians seek stability in uncertain times.

Builders in British Columbia are facing increased costs due to new earthquake safety rules. The updated BC Building Code, effective March 10, 2025, requires stronger structures, especially for six-storey wood-frame apartments and buildings in areas like Victoria with vulnerable soil. These changes aim to improve safety but are adding significant expenses to construction projects.

As the world faces the growing challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability, many homeowners are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner planet. One effective solution is the incorporation of renewable energy sources, and one of the most popular options is solar energy. In Canada, solar panel installations are becoming an increasingly viable and attractive choice for residential homes. The government’s initiatives to support green energy, combined with advancements in solar technology, are making it easier and more affordable for Canadians to transition to renewable energy sources.

Westbank, a real estate developer based in Vancouver, has submitted a proposal to build a 14-storey condominium at 1010 West King Edward Avenue, located at the southwest corner of King Edward and Oak Street. The site currently houses an Esso gas station and an On The Run convenience store. The proposed development aims to transform this corner into a residential building with retail space on the ground floor.

A significant piece of Kitchener's industrial history is now on the market. The former Dominion Tire Factory, located at 101 Glasgow Street, has been listed for sale, presenting a unique opportunity for residential development. This 14.5-acre property, situated between Downtown Kitchener and Westmount, is one of the largest urban infill sites in the Kitchener-Waterloo region.

The world is rapidly shifting towards more sustainable modes of transportation, and Canada is no exception. As the country seeks to reduce its carbon footprint and embrace greener alternatives, electric vehicles (EVs) have gained immense popularity. With advancements in technology, EVs are now more affordable, efficient, and accessible to the public than ever before. One of the key factors contributing to the rise of electric vehicles in Canada is the development of home charging stations. These stations make it easier for EV owners to charge their vehicles conveniently from the comfort of their homes. As more Canadians make the switch to electric vehicles, the demand for home charging station installation has skyrocketed, providing an essential component to the country’s transition to a cleaner future.

Canadians dreaming of owning a cottage or vacation home may face higher prices in 2025. According to Royal LePage's 2025 Spring Recreational Property Report, the average price of recreational properties is anticipated to increase by 4% nationwide, reaching approximately $652,808 by the end of the year. This follows a 2.3% rise in 2024, bringing the average price to $627,700.

Ontario is on track to face a significant rental housing shortage, with a projected gap of over 200,000 units by 2034. Despite recent efforts to increase construction, a new report from the Federation of Rental-housing Providers of Ontario (FRPO) and Urbanation indicates that the province is not building rental units quickly enough to meet the growing demand.

As winters in Canada can be long and harsh, maintaining an ideal indoor temperature is essential for comfort and energy efficiency. Smart thermostats offer homeowners a convenient and cost-effective solution to manage home heating and cooling. These advanced devices are designed to adjust the temperature based on your lifestyle, improving comfort while reducing energy consumption. By upgrading to smart thermostats, Canadians can take full control of their indoor environment, saving money and making their homes more energy-efficient, especially during the extreme weather conditions typical of Canadian climates.

A new 12-storey building is being proposed for The Beaches neighborhood in Toronto. Artlife Developments, a Toronto-based company, has submitted plans to redevelop the site at 419-425 Woodbine Avenue. The project aims to replace semi-vacant lands with a mixed-use residential building that includes 137 apartment units.

The 33rd Georgie Awards, hosted by the Canadian Home Builders' Association of British Columbia (CHBA BC), celebrated outstanding achievements in homebuilding on March 22, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Vancouver. This year's event featured a whimsical Dr. Seuss-inspired theme, adding a playful atmosphere to the prestigious gala.

Winter in Canada brings a unique set of challenges to homeowners, and one of the most commonly overlooked concerns is the condition of sewer lines. After the cold months, the freezing temperatures, heavy snowfalls, and shifting ground can cause serious damage to underground pipes. It’s crucial to understand how these seasonal changes affect your home’s plumbing and the importance of sewer line inspections to avoid costly repairs and long-term problems.

Canada's job market is experiencing a significant shift as job vacancies reach their lowest point since 2017. According to recent data from Statistics Canada, the number of unfilled positions dropped by 2.5% in January 2025, totaling 526,200 vacancies. This marks a substantial 20.6% decrease compared to the same period last year. The job vacancy rate now stands at 2.9%, indicating fewer opportunities for job seekers nationwide.

Canada has experienced a significant decline in international study permit applications, surpassing government projections. In January 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reported receiving only 29,300 new applications—a 46% decrease compared to the same month in the previous year. This marks the lowest number of applications for January since 2021, a period when pandemic-related restrictions were in effect.

Poly-B piping, commonly used in homes built in Canada during the 1970s and 1980s, has become a topic of concern for homeowners. While this plumbing material was once considered a cost-effective alternative to copper piping, it has since gained a reputation for being prone to failure. As more Canadian homes age, many property owners are discovering the risks associated with Poly-B piping, particularly the potential for leaks and water damage. This article explores the risks of Poly-B piping in older Canadian homes, what homeowners should be aware of, and the steps they can take to protect their property.

Landlords across Canada are offering perks like free rent, complimentary Wi-Fi, and Presto cards to attract new tenants. This trend is especially noticeable in cities like Toronto, where rental prices remain high and competition among landlords is fierce. These incentives aim to fill vacant units quickly in a market where renters have more options than ever before.

A luxurious three-storey home in Toronto's Lytton Park is on the market for $9 million, offering a blend of modern amenities and elegant design. This property features a heated terrace, a private basketball court, and a swimming pool, catering to both relaxation and active lifestyles.

As extreme heat events become more frequent in Canada, homeowners are facing new challenges in protecting their homes and families from the rising temperatures. With the impacts of climate change becoming more evident, Canadian homes need to be prepared for the increasing heat during summer months. Extreme heat can damage homes, affect energy consumption, and pose serious health risks to residents. It is essential for homeowners to understand how extreme heat affects their homes and take proactive measures to mitigate its impact. Proper preparation can help reduce energy costs, maintain home comfort, and protect the health of the household.

Taza Development Corporation has announced the selection of three homebuilders—Brookfield Residential, Crystal Creek Homes, and Homes by Avi—as the initial residential developers for the expansive 470-acre Taza Park project in Calgary. This significant step marks a major milestone in the development of one of North America's largest Indigenous-led real estate initiatives. citeturn0search0

Calgary and Vancouver have been recognized as top performers in Canada's Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), each receiving significant bonus funding to further their housing initiatives. The federal government announced a total of $73.8 million in performance-based bonuses for 27 municipalities that met or exceeded their housing targets and commitments.

As the snow melts and the days get longer, spring is the perfect time to prepare your Canadian cottage for the warmer months ahead. Whether you visit your cottage regularly or only during the summer, ensuring your property is properly maintained at the start of the season is essential. Spring maintenance helps preserve the longevity of your cottage, prevents costly repairs, and ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for you and your family. From inspecting the roof to checking water systems, there are several tasks that must be completed to ensure everything is in working order after the winter.

The Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) has left an indelible mark on Canada's architectural landscape with its grand department stores. These buildings not only served as retail hubs but also as cultural landmarks, reflecting the evolution of Canadian cities. As HBC faces financial challenges, the future of these historic structures has become a topic of national interest.

Marlin Spring Developments is moving forward with plans to build a 49-storey condominium tower at 5280 Dundas Street West in Etobicoke. The site, acquired in July 2024, is adjacent to the Kipling GO Station, offering residents convenient access to multiple transit options, including GO, TTC, and MiWay services.

Frozen pipes in your outdoor landscaping system can be a major issue during cold weather, leading to damage and costly repairs. Understanding how to prevent and manage frozen pipes is essential for homeowners who want to maintain their outdoor water system and protect their landscaping investment. If you live in an area that experiences freezing temperatures, the risk of your pipes freezing becomes a real concern. Water can freeze inside pipes, causing them to crack or burst, which can disrupt your irrigation and drainage systems.

Toronto is facing a severe housing crisis, with many residents struggling to find affordable homes. Despite this, several city-owned historic row houses on George Street remain unoccupied. These 19th-century homes have been vacant for years, leading to deterioration and missed opportunities for housing.