Author: homegoal.ca
For first-time homebuyers, entering the real estate market can feel daunting—but choosing a location with favorable conditions can make all the difference. As we enter the last quarter of the year, Canada’s real estate landscape is marked by sharp contrasts: major cities are becoming more buyer-friendly, while smaller, more affordable regions are heating up for sellers. Zoocasa analyzed which markets provide the best prospects based on the latest sales-to-new listings ratios, according to the respective local real estate boards’ August 2025 data. This ratio, a key indicator of market conditions, reflects the balance between supply and demand: a higher ratio…
When Clarence Debelle, Realtor with Royal Pacific Lion’s Gate Realty, took on the $38.8-million listing for one of West Vancouver’s most unique luxury properties — a sprawling white mansion on Crestline Road with a private casino, custom-designed, hand-cut-and-built, leaded glass dome and three elevators — he approached it the same way he does every home, just on a larger scale. A key reason Debelle was chosen to represent the property is his attention to detail. “I really studied the property,” he says. “There’s a list of special features 10 pages long (that) took (many) days to create.” That kind of…
After a period of uncertainty and cautious activity, Canada’s housing market showed signs of renewed activity in August 2025. August 2025 brought a combination of rising sales, expanding inventory, and relatively stable prices. The latest Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) housing data for August 2025 confirms this trend, revealing a market regaining momentum with notable implications for real estate investors. National home sales rose 1.1% month-over-month, marking the strongest August for sales in four years and the fifth consecutive monthly gain. Compared to August 2024, sales were up 1.9%, signaling a steady recovery despite varied conditions across regions. Regional Activity…
This article was written and submitted by former CEO of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) Tim Hudak and long-time senior Ontario civil servant Frank Denton. Hudak is currently partner at Counsel Public Affairs Inc., and Denton is a senior advisor. The collapse of iPro Realty, one of Ontario’s largest independent brokerages, has left at least an $8-million shortfall in its trust accounts and put the regulator, the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), under an intense spotlight. For buyers, sellers, and real estate agents, the scandal raises urgent questions about whether their deposits are safe. When suspicion falls on…
Few investments have created wealth as broadly in Canada as real estate, but is it always the best return? A new study from wealth management firm PWL Capital compares homeowner equity to the invested savings of renters. The results were surprising: in most major markets—including Toronto—renters came out ahead. While past returns don’t guarantee future outcomes, the data offers insights that can help shape your financial future. About Today’s Data Today’s study compares renting and owning from 2005 to 2024 across 12 major Canadian cities. It examines how renter’s net worth would compare to a homeowner’s if they invest the…
Since the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter-point last month, anticipation of a real estate rebound has been growing. Mortgage applications rose 29.7% ahead of the rate cut announcement, and climbed again the following week by 0.6%, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. The average 30-year mortgage rate now sits at 6.3%. Compared to two years ago, when the average rate was 7.19%, this is a welcome improvement for affordability. As a result, average monthly mortgage payments are more affordable than they once were. In some cases, prospective homebuyers stand to save thousands of dollars annually compared to…
Each month, REM shares brokerage expansions and conversions, leadership appointments and other key industry moves. Have an announcement to share? Email your news to [email protected] by the 26th of each month, and don’t forget to include a photo! Leadership moves Re/Max Twin City adds to leadership team Re/Max Twin City Realty has appointed Brian Santos as managing broker for its Waterloo, Ont., and New Hamburg, Ont., offices. Santos brings 17 years of experience to the role, including as a past president of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of Realtors and two-term director at Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA). He is…
A snazzy new two-tower, high-rise development is headed for the High Park North neighbourhood of Toronto that could deliver over 870 new rental units within walking distance of Keele Station. The proposal was submitted by Elysium Investments in early-September and comprises an Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment application for a 41- and 39-storey building with a shared six-storey podium.If approved, the development would replace 11 single-detached homes located just north of High Park. Addressed as 26-36 Mountview Avenue and 21-29 Oakmount Road, the proposed site sits just northwest of the Bloor Street West and Keele Street intersection. The site…
As fall approaches, it’s the perfect time to plan some energizing weekend getaways from Toronto. It’s a chance to soak in the beautiful views, enjoy a change of pace, and watch the leaves change colour in scenic small towns. Everyone deserves a little escape, so here are 5 stunning weekend getaways just a short drive from the city. Jump ahead: Elora: Where History Meets Art Distance: 1 hour 50 minutes (115km west via ON-401) Elora is just as beautiful as its name suggests. The village is known for its natural scenery and historic architecture. It’s also a hub for art…
Minimalism has long been a staple in interior design, but today’s take is warmer, softer, and more personal. While “minimalist” once conjured images of cold, clinical spaces and stark modern lines, the style has evolved – now embracing comfort, texture, and lived-in character. Ready to simplify your space without sacrificing comfort or personality? Here’s how you can achieve a minimalist look that feels intentional, inviting, and uniquely yours. Table of contents What is minimalist interior design? The rise of warm minimalism in 2025 Declutter with purpose Use a neutral colour palette Lighting ideas for minimalist spaces Curved and functional furnishings…